Sony HVR-A1E - Expert Reviews

Review summary: Sony's HDR-HC1 camcorder is bringing high definition down to a more affordable and aesthetically pleasing form for the average consumer.

Pros: High-resolution video, Compact design, Excellent viewfinder, Versatile features.

Cons: Some design quirks, Some autofocus glitches.

Verdict: A good first effort at a consumer HD camcorder, but only HD fanatics should really consider it.

Pros: Groundbreaking technology, Handling, ease of use, Compact size, Picture quality, Microphone jack, Very good viewfinder

Cons: Battery life, Memory stick size, No Editor software included, Minor autofocus issues

Review summary: In every field a product comes along every now and then which is later regarded as a tipping point - a fulcrum, if you will - around which the old and the new swing. In digital photography many regard the Canon D30 of several yea

Review summary: It may be small, but is it perfectly formed? We put Sony's lightweight HD camcorder through its paces

Pros: Handy size, Lightweight, HD recording

Cons: Bottom loader, 'Video' look for footage, Small LCD

Verdict: The HVR-A1E is a great choice for anyone who's looking to take a hassle-free step into high-definition images. It's not cheap by any means, but this is a professional, not a domestic level, product and the feature set and video quality more than ...

Review summary: Sony has scored a real coup with its new HC1. The camcorder has become incredibly popular amongst a broad range of videomakers. I have fielded calls from a wide variety of users, those who are now exchanging an old analogue camcorder for their first ...

Pros: Picture quality, compactness, control.

Cons: Bottom mounted tape loading, potentially needs upgrade of PC / software for HDV editing.

Verdict: The HC1 is a clear commitment by Sony to the HDV format. While the company launched the format with semi-pro and prosumer models, it has clearly moved the format into the mass market with the HC1. The point is that the acceptance of HDV will come from ...