Sony Unveils First HDD Camcorder

May 22, 2006: Sony has released its first hard disk drive camcorder, the Handycam DCR-SR100, which offers outstanding recording times, widescreen capability and 5.1 channel surround sound along with seamless PC connectivity.

Featuring a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with 10x optical zoom, the SR100 supports both 4:3 and 16:9 (wide screen) aspect ratio recording. It sports a 2.7″ Touch-Screen Hybrid LCD and includes SteadyShot image stabilisation and Sony’s Easy Handycam mode for shooting simplicity. The new model comes with an on-board 30GB hard disk drive that eliminates the need to load tapes or discs. This drive can hold more than seven hours of DVD quality video (9Mbps VBR), more than 21 hours of web-quality Long Play mode (3Mbps VBR)or 10 hours of Slow Play recording (6Mbps VBR).

Unlike other camcorders in its class, the SR100 comes with Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator pre-installed, allowing 5.1 channel surround sound to be recorded directly to the HDD. It also features a 3-megapixel Advanced HAD CCD imager that can record video at up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution and high-resolution stills. A built-in flash is provided for still shooting, while the camera’s Super NightShot Infrared System allows video recording in low light situations.

The SR100 is supplied with ImageMixer for HDD Camcorder software so users can transfer recordings from the camera to a DVD. Also delivered through ImageMixer is the Easy PC Backup system which scans footage and backs up data not already backed up on the PC. DVD authoring software is also included in the package for editing of footage. The on-board HDD Smart Protection system engages if the camcorder receives a sharp impact to prevent data loss. Video Stream Buffering is also provided.

Due for release this month, the Handycam DCR-SR100 has an RRP of $1799. For full details, visit www.sony.com.au. Stockist information is available from Sony Australia by phoning 1300 720 071.