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Sony unveils “NEX” interchangeable lens HD camcorders
May 12th
In an announcement that will please and excite a lot of the more serious videomakers out there, Sony announced the development of a new type of AVCHD high definition camcorder that features an interchangeable lens.
The new “NEX-5” and “NEX-3” camcorders will be equipped with “Exmor” APS HD CMOS sensors and will be compatible with “E Mount” interchangeable lenses in addition to the wealth of “A Mount” interchangeable lenses from the existing “á” DSLR camera lineup via a mount adaptor.
Sony NEX-5 APS HD CMOS AVCHD Camcorder
In a move that’s seen as another step towards convergence of HD camera and camcorder technologies, Sony has told SimplyDV that it will be introducing its new models with leading-edge technologies that include the following:
- New Alpha digital cameras with DSLR picture quality and responsive shooting
- World’s smallest and lightest1 interchangeable lens digital camera (NEX-5)
- 14.2 effective megapixels Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor
- 1080i HD movie recording (NEX-5) with stereo sound, fast and silent autofocus
- Intuitive new interface with Help Guide and Shooting Tips
- E-mount lens system compatible with α DSLR lenses (with optional Mount Adaptor)
- Sweep Panorama with 3D capability
Joining the Alpha family, the NEX-5 and NEX-3 models are designed to combine DSLR-quality imaging with the convenience of interchangeable lenses in a sleek new easy-to-use and portable design. In contrast to conventional DSLR models, the ‘mirrorless’ construction shrinks the thickness of the cameras to just 24.2mm (NEX-5 excluding grip and mount) and 25.4mm (NEX-3, excluding grip and mount) at their slimmest points. The NEX-5 features a tough yet light-weight magnesium body, enabling Sony to lay claim to its being the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera.
14.2 Megapixel Exmor HD CMOS image sensor
At the heart of both cameras is a newly-developed Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor with a resolution of 14.2 effective megapixels. This is larger than the sensors commonly found in conventional compact cameras, and is key to achieving the low image noise and creative defocus effects that consumers have come to expect from DSLR cameras.
Still and video image quality is further achieved by the powerful BIONZ processor that ensures speedy DSLR-style shooting reflexes with quick, precise autofocus and minimal shutter lag. Both cameras are also designed to capture fast-moving action with a high-speed burst of full-resolution images at up to 7fps (AF/AE fixed from first frame).
A new ‘never get lost’ menu interface has been developed by Sony to enhance the “powerful creative possibilities of the NEX-5 and NEX-3 accessible to photo enthusiasts and snap shooters alike”. Shooting parameters are accessed via an intuitive control wheel and two soft keys. Turning the control dial, for example, allows depth of focus changes to be previewed ‘live’ on the LCD3, giving improved control over professional-style image composition. Further help for photographers developing their skills is provided by a library of on-screen shooting tips and a friendly help guide.
Images and camera settings are displayed on the large, bright 3” Xtra Fine LCD screen with TruBlack technology that tilts up or down for comfortable viewing in any shooting position. The screen features an auto-brightness function for excellent visibility, even when you’re outdoors. TruBlack screen technology enables an even more vivid, high-contrast view of images and camera settings.
E-mount lens system compatibility
Described by Sony as being ideal for everyday shooting, the low-profile E 16mm F/2.8 ‘pancake’ lens (SEL16F28) is designed to minimise bulk when the camera is carried in a jacket or bag. Its field of view can be boosted even further by the VCL-ECU1 Ultra Wide Converter and VCL-ECF1 Fisheye Converter that deliver high-definition optical performance in a sleek, co-ordinated design.
Featuring in-lens Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation for clearer handheld images, the E 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 zoom (SEL1855) is perfect for every day shooting. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are available in kit form with either lens, or as a double-lens kit that provides even greater shooting versatility.
Sony NEX-3 APS HD CMOS AVCHD Camcorder
The E 18-200 F/3.5-6.3 zoom (SEL18200) lens is also available and offers a powerful 11x magnification range. It also features Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation in the lens and Active Mode ensures steady movie capture even when on the move.
An optional LA-EA1 mount adaptor extends compatibility to the α family of 30 lenses, plus a huge range of other legacy A-mount lenses (Manual Focus only).
The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are also the first α cameras to offer the extra convenience of HD video recording. At the touch of a dedicated Movie REC button, both NEX-5 and NEX-3 shoots Full HD (1920 x1080) video as high-quality AVCHD files that can be enjoyed by connecting to an HD television. HD video (720p) can also be captured by NEX-3 as compact MPEG4 files that are ideal for PC storage and web sharing. As an option, the smart accessory terminal on both cameras accepts the compact ECM-SST1 Stereo Microphone (optional) that captures a high-quality soundtrack for your HD videos.
The NEX-5 and NEX-3 are the first Alpha cameras featuring Sweep Panorama. Just press the shutter button and sweep the camera horizontally or vertically. A high-speed burst of frames is stitched together automatically to create detail-packed 23 megapixel panoramas with a 226 degree effective angle of view4. As a world’s first, Sweep Panorama files can also be enjoyed in stunning 3D on compatible Bravia 3D television displays.
As previously introduced on the DSLR-A550, Auto HDR has been further refined. The NEX-5 and NEX-3 can now shoot a high-speed burst of three images at different exposure values that are then combined in the camera. This produces a single High Dynamic Range image with extended highlights, more mid-tones and shadow detail.
Both cameras come supplied with a super-compact clip-on flash that attaches via the smart accessory terminal when needed for low-light shooting. Other optional accessories include the FDA-SV1 Optical Viewfinder plus colour coordinated cases and shoulder straps.
The NEX-5 and NEX-3 cameras from Sony will be available in the UK from June 2010. No pricing indications have yet been received.
Source: Sony UK Press Release. Images Courtesy Sony UK. Used by Permission. Additional text by Colin Barrett, SimplyDV.
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More Sony DSLRs with AVCHD in 2010
Feb 22nd
A cornerstone of its future product line-up will be ultra-compact DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) cameras that offer the dual function of recording and playing back AVCHD high-definition video, too.
Sony used this year’s PMA 2010 imaging convention at Anaheim, California to confirm its plans for further expansion of its digital imaging product range. Additions to the α (”alpha”) range of DSLR cameras were joined at the show by a new product concept claimed by the company to make “high-quality imaging accessible to an even wider audience of photographers”.
Mock-ups of new Sony DSLR products on show at PMA
We understand that during 2010 Sony will introduce a new ultra-compact camera with interchangeable lenses that teams “anytime, anywhere” convenience with DSLR picture quality. Exhibited in early concept mock-up form at PMA2010, the camera features a newly-developed Exmor APS-C HD CMOS image sensor. It will also support HD video recording using the now ubiquitous and highly-efficient AVCHD format. Shown in mock-up form alongside the new camera is a selection of compatible interchangeable lenses.
Mainstream DSLR range “to grow further”
Sony also confirms that the current “α” (alpha) range will continue to grow with the introduction of further new mainstream DSLR models that use the newly-developed Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor and integrating HD video function with AVCHD format.
Shown in concept mock-up form at PMA is a successor to the α700, Sony’s acclaimed mid-range camera body that – Sony tells us – has found favour with both ‘prosumers’ and enthusiasts alike. Further new α DSLR cameras are scheduled for launch in 2010.
New DSLR lenses on the way, too
The α family of over 30 interchangeable lenses and teleconverters is set to grow with the addition of exciting new models.
Shown in advanced pre-production form at PMA is the Distagon T* 24mm f/2 ZA SSM Carl Zeiss wide angle lens. Scheduled for launch in 2010, this bright, wide-angle prime is targetted at those working in the field of reportage, and is designed to cope with naturally-lit interiors and other quality-critical handheld shooting applications.
Displayed as a mock-up on the Sony booth, the newest lens to carry the G Lens name is a bright, high-power Super Telephoto 500mm f/4 G with “class-leading” optical performance.
Related Link: PMA 2010 Exhibition
High end AVCHD – Sony’s new HDR-AX2000E
Jan 7th
Sony’s new HDR-AX2000 professional AVCHD camcorder is further evidence that we’re well on the way to a largely solid-state high definition existence. Not only that, but it’s the first prosumer cam to have two Memory Card slots too!
Sharing many features with Sony’s professional camcorder line-up, newly announced HDR-AX2000E Handycam is evidently designed to provide professional and semi-pro videographers with an extensive range of creative options.
Improved optical performance and improved ergonomics are teamed with the necessary manual controls to give fine control over composing richly-detailed, cinematic HD images.
Sony HDR-AX2000 AVCHD Handycam
Reflecting the demands of pro-style workflow, it’s the first Handycam to provide uninterrupted relay recording on dual Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD/SDHC memory card slots. If one memory card is filled during shooting, the camcorder continues recording automatically on a second memory card inserted in the other slot.
Users switching from tape-based formats, such as HDV or MiniDV will benefit from the reduction of storage space requirements compared with tape; not only that, but shooting on memory card allows videographers to import HD footage directly into a non-linear editing environment without time-consuming tape transfers. The work-flow is radically improved – a great advantage when every minute counts and there’s no time to wait for a real-time tape capture into the editing computer.
Summary of the HDR-AX2000′s main features
Based on information provided to us by Sony, here’s a breakdown of the camcorder’s main features.
- High quality HD imaging, pro-style ergonomics and advanced manual functions
- Superb Sony G Lens with 20x optical zoom (30x with Digital Range Extender)
- 6.0mm (1/3”) Exmor 3CMOS Sensors with ClearVid array
- Highest-quality AVCHD recording at maximum24Mbps in FX Mode
- 25p progressive shooting, with picture profile for rich, filmic tones
- 8.0cm (3.2″) Wide 921k dot XtraFine LCD
- Relay recording on dual memory card for uninterrupted shooting
- High quality audio with internal mic and XLR connectors for external 2ch mic
- Two recording modes – AVCHD (HD) and MPEG2 (SD)
Sony HDR-AX2000 Prosumer AVCHD Camcorder (see-through)
The camcorder’s HD picture quality is provided by the 1/3-type Exmor 3CMOS Sensors with a ClearVid array and powerful Enhanced Image Processor (EIP) resulting in improved detailing and dynamic range due to very high sensitivity. Users will, Sony assures us, be rewarded by superb results with reduced image noise, even when shooting in low-light conditions.
Complementing the Exmor 3CMOS Sensors is a bright, premium quality G Lens with a powerful 20x optical zoom range that covers focal lengths from 29.5mm wide angle to 590mm (35mm equivalent).
There’s also a 1.5x digital extender that boosts zoom range further still for powerful close-ups. Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation is now enhanced with new Active Mode which is intended to dramatically reduce the effects of camera shake when shooting without a tripod.
For quality-critical productions, new FX Mode captures 1920×1080/50i video at a full 24Mbps – the highest bit-rate specified by the AVCHD format.
Recording Options*
The AVCHD (MPEG4-AVC/H.264) recording options are:
- FX (24 Mbps) 1920×1080/50i, 25P
- FH (17 Mbps) 1920×1080/50i, 25P
- HQ (9 Mbps) 1440×1080/50i
- LP (5 Mbps) 1440×1080/50i
The Standard Definition (MPEG2) recording options are:
- HQ (9 Mbps) 720×576/50i
- HQ (9 Mbps) 720×576/50i (25P scan)
* Please note that these settings relate to models available in Europe as represented by the “E” suffix in the product name
25P Progressive Mode shooting
Memory card slots at rear of Sony HDR-AX2000 Prosumer AVCHD Camcorder
Creative options are broadened further by 25p progressive mode that captures lush, cinematic HD images. ‘Filmic’ quality of progressive images can be enhanced by adjusting picture profile settings for richly saturated colours.
Serious videographers are able to fine-tune their creative vision with an extensive range of manual functions.
Independent zoom, focus and iris rings facilitate precise, intuitive manual control over shot composition with shutter speed and gain being separately adjustable, too. Dedicated controls are provided for gain, white balance and shutter speed. There’s also a focus switch for quick, positive mode selection and three switchable ND filters.
In what Sony confidently describes as another Handycam first, the integrated microphone is complemented by two professional XLR connectors that allow the addition of a stereo pair of external microphones. Internal and external mic signals can be mixed on board for extra control over capturing foreground and background sounds.
Available Accessories
An extensive choice of compatible accessories is available, too. The VCL‑HG0872X high-grade wide conversion lens provides an effective focal length of 23.6mm and the SH‑L32W LCD hood gives improved visibility of the 3.2-type LCD in bright shooting conditions. As protection whilst on the move, the LCS-VCC is a high-capacity soft carry case that incorporates plenty of space for accessories.
Availability in Europe
We’re told that the Sony Handycam HDR-AX2000E will be available from February 2010.
Sony reveals new HD and SD Handycams
Jan 7th
For the 2010 digital video-making season Sony has announced a choice of ten compact new Handycam models that shoot on memory card and internal flash memory – but HDD (hard disc drive) still figures strong with the company’s announcement of five feature-packed HDD models as well.
Sony's new HDR-CX350 AVCHD Handycam
Interestingly, the Sony announcement covers everything from a serious professional-quality AVCHD camcorder (the HDR-AX2000) to a new range of easy-to-use and fun Bloggie cameras designed for bloggers and YouTube users.
What’s surprising is that Sony is introducing even more HDD camcorders at a time when the other three major brands – Panasonic, Canon and JVC have all but dropped the format in favour of flash memory recording in the form of either built-in memory or memory card slots.
What’s even more surprising is Sony’s seismic shift away from its proprietary Memory Stick in favour of SDHC and MicroSD memory cards on several of its new products this year. Is this the beginning of the end for Memory Stick as we’ve been predicting for quicte some time?
Sony summarises its new product offer as “optical innovation meets fun, easy-to-use features”.
Premium HD Flash Memory and HDD models
A range of new AVCHD models offer full-specification AVCHD recording and playback. The HDR-CX550V, HDR-XR550V, HDR-CX350V, HDR-XR350V and HDR-CX305 all feature a high quality Sony G Lens, which captures approximately double the shooting area compared with previous Handycam camcorders. Wide angle performance of the HDR-CX550V and HDR-XR550V models is 29.8mm for video and 26.3mm for still images (35mm equivalent) in an even smaller body than their predecessors.
Leading the pack: HDR-XR550 and HDR-CX550 HD cams
The flagship HDR-XR550 and HDR-CX550 models lead the new range with 6.3mm (1/2.9in) Exmor R CMOS image sensors producing a respectable 6.3MP (megapixels) for movie recording and 12MP for digital stills. 10x Optical Zoom is provided, as is Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation.
They also share 5.1ch Surround Sound, 8.8cm colour LCD as well as a colour EVF (Electronic Viewfinder), Face detection, Direct Copy, Accessory Shoe, Microphone Input and Headphone Out together with the full range of connectors such as USB, HDMI, and so on. Where the models differ is in their recording media; the HDR-XR550 uses a stonking 240GB HDD (hard disc drive) whereas the HDR-CX550 employs 64GB internal Flash Memory. Both cameras support the Memory Stick Pro-DUO and Pro-HG Duo variants and SD/SDHC Memory Cards.
Sony HDR-CX305 AVCHD Handycam
The HDR-CX305 has the same CMOS sensor, only smaller at 4.5mm (1/4 type). Movie resolution is 4.2MP with stills at 7.1MP. A 12x Optical Zoom lens is provided with the recording medium being 16GB Internal Memory (in addition to the same card options, above). A 6.7cm LCD panel is provided though there’s no EVF. Neither does it offer headphone out or microphone input.
The HDR-CX115 shares many of the features and specifications of the HDR-CX305 except that it has a Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar 25x Optical Zoom lens and uses an internal 80GB HDD. It also offers both Memory Card formats.
General features of models in the new Sony HD Handycam range
Entry-level HD models also benefit from SteadyShot Active Mode for up to 10x shake reduction (at wide end of zoom setting) compared with standard SteadyShot.
Improved sensitivity with Exmor R CMOS image sensors
The Exmor R CMOS Sensor is now available in all Sony HD Handycam models, as well as in the Standard Definition flagship product, the DCR-SX73. Its back-illuminated design enables more light to reach photosensitive areas of the device without being obscured by connecting wires within the sensor. This boosts sensitivity compared with sensors that use a conventional front-illuminated structure, and something that users requireing an improved lower-light performance will undoubtedly welcome. This feature is something we’ll certainly check when we review the new products.
New Optical SteadyShot Active Mode is designed to combine optical and electronic stabilisation systems, in order to deliver what Sony assures is the best-ever ‘3-way’ anti-shake performance from wide to telephoto end. With this technology, images are now up to 10x steadier at wide end of zoom settings, we’re told. At the other end of the zoom it’s possible to enjoy up to 2x improved anti-shake performance for clearer, more stable results when shooting on a telephoto setting.
Thanks to the new Quick AF function, Autofocus is claimed to be more accurate and twice as fast compared to previous Handycam camcorders especially when taking advantage of the even faster zooming speeds available on these models.
Highest 24Mbps AVCHD bitrate an option on all HD models
All HD models now support recording at up to 24Mbps, which is the highest bitrate offered by the AVCHD format and an increasingly common option being offered by Canon and JVC. Only Panasonic has yet to offer this option. It’s certainly a valuable addition for serious video-making enthusiasts, although clips recorded at 24Mbps may create problems when it comes to sharing sequences in other media and on other devices.
Ideal for newbies: the Sony HDR-CX115 AVCHD Handycam (Blue option)
Already a feature of Sony Cyber-shot digital stills cameras, Intelligent AUTO (iAUTO) is optimised to remove the guesswork from making camcorder settings manually.
Making its Handycam debut this year, iAUTO combines recognition of Face Detection, your shooting situation (handheld or tripod), and ten different scene types. Based on this information, Handycam automatically optimises shooting parameters to provide improved clarity and image resolution based on up to 90 different scene combinations (60 combinations for 3.1M/1.6M HD model).
Enhanced by a sleek new slim-frame design, the Clear Photo LCD now gives an even better view when you’re framing and reviewing scenes. Pixel count on the 6.7cm screen has been upped to 230k dots (from 210k dots), while the viewing angle is boosted to 170 degrees to give everyone a clearer picture of your shots. The flagship HDR-CX550 and HDR-XR550 models are distinguished by their 8.8cm Xtra Fine LCD screen; this uses the same TruBlack technology that’s incorporated the company’s S-Frame digital photo frames.
Frame-by-frame, slow-motion analysis with Golf Shot
Frame by frame analysis on Sony Handycams
If you’re into golfing and keen to analyse your performance, Sony’s new Golf Shot feature makes it easier than ever to check your swing, frame by frame.
In Golf Shot mode, the Handycam starts capturing a continuous stream of high-speed images while you’re still waiting for the action to start.
At the end of the swing, press the Record button – and the entire sequence is grabbed at a rate of 200 frames per second for smooth slow-motion replay. It’s then possible to display the results both as a slow-motion video as well as a composite image with every frame of movement shown by a series of thumbnail-sized images in a single still picture.
Not forgetting Standard Definition
Although the number of standard definition camcorder options are reducing right across the board as consumers switch to shooting high definition on their AVCHD camcorders or mobile devices, Sony’s new Standard Definition models benefit from a CCD with higher sensitivity that is claimed to improve image quality in low light (perhaps the most important consideration for many users). Multiple Face Detection for video and stills has also been added.
Sony DCR-SX33 Handycam in a choice of three body colours
The DCR-SR58 and DCR-SX33 share many specifications and features with the exception that the SR58 uses an internal 80GB HDD in addition to Memory Cards, whereas the SX33 provides for Memory Card slot only.
They both use 2.3mm (1/8in) CCDs (the only models to do so) with gross pixels resolution of 800,000 providing 340,000 for stills. A 60x Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar lens is included with Steadyshot being the electronic image stabilisation employed. A Stereo built-in mic is standard as is a 6.7cm colour LCD. It too has Face Detection and Direct Copy, but no Accessory Shoe or Mic in/ Headphone Out connectors.
All entry-level SD models (Flash Memory and HDD) now sport an on-board video light to improve illumination of clips when recording parties, interiors and other dimly-lit scenes.
Copying to external USB Hard Disc Drives via optional adaptor cable
Featured on all HD and SD models, Direct Copy enables users to copy footage directly from any new Sony Handycam to a compatible external hard disk drive for PC-free back-up and archiving. This immensely useful feature enables the user to connect the camcorder to the external hard disc drive (USB 2.0) using the optional Sony VMC-UAM1 USB adaptor cable in order to transfer all or a selection of clips for safekeeping. With the HDD remaining connected to the camcorder – which is, in turn, connected to a suitable TV display, video clips stored on the external HDD can be viewed easily on SD or HD television by using the various playback modes available on the Handycam, such as Map Index (GPS model only), Visual Index, and Highlight Playback
All new Handycam models are compatible with the VRD-MC6 DVD burner and VRDP1 DVDirect Express. At the touch of a button it’s possible to burn Standard Definition or High Definition clips onto affordable DVD media for archiving, sharing or enjoying with friends via Bluray Disc or DVD. The VRD-MC6 will also allow users of tape-based camcorders to transfer old MiniDV or HDV footage from the camcorder straight to DVD in a touch of a button.
Bundled Software
Supplied with all Handycam models is the latest version of PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software. This has been given a new-look user interface which allows users to browse through all video clips (SD or HD) and still images and incorporates a new Calendar view which automatically groups visual assets by date and time. With PMB it’s possible to burn favourites to disc, email them to friends and family, or upload to sharing sites like YouTube.
The simple integration for sharing content on Facebook will also be available as a downloadable update to this software in the Spring 2010. This complements the existing sharing capability with such sites as YouTube and Picasa Web Albums. With the new version, users will have the ability to share photos and videos on Facebook directly from PMB software.
Memory Stick card slot – and SD/SDHC too!
A Slot for Memory Stick PRO Duo as well as SD/SDHC memory cards (sold separately) are offered to suit users’ personal shooting preferences. The addition of SD card slots is a major shift for Sony – how much longer can Memory Stick survive?
Availability
The Spring 2010 Handycam line-up of Flash Memory and HDD camcorders by Sony is available from February 2010.
