Sony's 3 CCD Handycam

[Suhit Gupta]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://news.sel.sony.com/pressrelease/5040' target='_blank'>http://news.sel.sony.com/pressrelease/5040</a><br /><br /></div><i>"Advancing the category it created, Sony unveiled a three-CCD camcorder with an innovative, multi-angle handle and state-of-the-art optics. At less than two pounds, the super-compact DCR-HC1000 MiniDV Handycam camcorder features Sony's three-chip, one-megapixel Advanced HAD™ progressive scan CCD technology. Each CCD imager is dedicated to a primary color. They separate light passing through the lens into individual color components for noticeably sharper images and colors. By giving each lens its own megapixel imager, the camcorder captures the intense detail and color that expert videographers appreciate."</i><br /><br /><img src="http://www.digitalmediathoughts.com/images/3ccdsony.jpg" /><br /><br />The camera will also sport high-quality Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T optics for improved sharpness and resolution, along with higher contrast. The new DCR-HC1000 model is expected to be available next month for about $1,700. It looks so cool, I just wish it were a bit cheaper.

[Jason Dunn]

Interesting to see a 3CCD camera in such a small physical size. At least, it LOOKS small. :)

[Montego]

I don't think the price is too bad for a 3CCD cam. I wish it had better still image capability, a feature I use more than I thought I would.

However the specs at Sony state that it can record Surround Sound with an optional microphone, and that it can be converted to 5.1. That is very cool. I usually use Vegas 5's 5.1 feature, and record "ambience" tracks on location with a minidisc recorder equipped with Core Sound binaural mics. Coupled with the surround on this cam, I could get some really good stuff.

[Crocuta]

Now this one makes me drool! I'd love to have the image quality of a 3CCD model, but size is critically important to me. To have this in a "super compact" form factor would be great. Unfortunately, at that price, I'll just have to continue to drool for now. Ain't gonna happen any time soon.