New HD Camcorders for 2009

[diversteve]

5 from Sony:

High Definition Video | Sony | SonyStyle USA

and 5 from Canon:

Canon Consumer Camcorders

 

[robint]

Wow! Thanks!
The Sonys with the built-in GPS receiver look interesting! I like that idea - being able to map your location right through your video.
Geotagging with built-in GPS receiver:
A built-in GPS receiver7 makes the HDR-XR200V an ideal choice for travelers. In addition to automatically adjusting your camcorder's clock to the proper time zone, the GPS receiver also gives you the ability to view your current location on the LCD map display, as well as "tag" your shooting locations. Tagged videos and still images can be reviewed and played back using the Map Index function on the camcorder or once downloaded to your PC using the supplied PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software9

Map Index function:
Map Index uses the geotagging capabilities of the built-in GPS receiver7 to "tag" your shot locations on a map in the camcorder, offering a new way to easily search and find a desired scene by location or view where a scene was captured.


And I wonder how much better the new CMOS sensor is and will it produce better images underwater -
BIONZ Image Processor:
e BIONZ Image Processor works in conjunction with the ClearVid CMOS sensor (with Exmor derived technology) for pristine imaging. The BIONZ image processor provides Data Noise Reduction, Faster Image processing, and Data compression to preserve videos and images. In addition, the BIONZ image processor enables Face Detection technology and SonyÃÔ Dynamic Range Optimizer for both video and still image capture. The higher processing speed also allows Dual Recording to capture still images while recording video.


All look very nice. I am glad I waited before buying an HD camcorder for underwater. I did go ahead and buy a HC62 last week in order to use with my old tapes and topside for now (replacing my *******ed HC42). I do plan to get an HD and housing for underwater as soon as funds allow.

robin

 

[drbill]

Why in the world do I want a GPS receiver in a camcorder? This escapes me completely. I know where I am... underwater (where it doesn't function anyway)! I can se one in my cell phone or car, but not in a camcorder.

I see the new Sony camcorders are still using the "ClearVid CMOS sensors." From my personal experiences with these sensors in the HC-7 I will steer clear of the new models. They just don't produce good results in the green waters of SoCal IMHO. On well lit closeups they are great... but the backgrounds and shadows are green due to the over-tweaking of the green end of the spectrum.

I've actually gone back to filming many of my subjects with my older Sony mini-DV camcorders... much better overall color and better focusing in low light conditions.