Sony HDR-HC3 HDV Camcorder

The Sony HDR-HC3 HDV camcorder is the electronics giant's third high definition camcorder, following the HDR-FX1 and HDR-HC1. Like the HDR-HC1, the HC3 is aimed squarely at the consumer and video enthusiast and is, according to the company, 26% more compact than its predecessor. It's also $100 cheaper.

"People are more savvy about high-definition television, have experienced its visual impact, and now they want the same 'wow factor' for their own home movies," said Linda Vuolo, director for camcorder products at Sony Electronics. "Sony has made great strides in creating the consumer HDV market over the past two years and now we are expanding it even further."

The Sony HDR-HC3 shoots 1080i resolution video and has an HDMI output for connection to an HDTV or projector. It can also shoot four-megapixel stills and store them on a Memory Stick PRO Duo memory card. Its Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar Lens T* is complemented by Sony's new ClearVid CMOS sensor. The new sensor is designed to "boost picture resolution and clarity to deliver vivid colors and precise image detail" according to Sony.

In addition to shooting standard and high definition video and 4 megapixel stills, the Sony HDR-HC3 HDV camcorder has a dual record function which allows it to capture 2.3 megapixel stills at the same time as high definition video and 21,7 megapixel stills ant the same time as standard definition video.

Among the new features which are designed to make the HC3 easy to use are a user-assignable dial that can be set to control the most regularly used functions and Sony's Easy Handycam button that locks out advanced features allowing access only to the buttons necessary for recording.

There also a 2.7in touch panel SwivelScreen LCD for previewing and reviewing video and still images. Rounding out the features are image stabilization, a built-in microphone, built-in flash and a InfoLithium P battery which provides enough power for 90 minutes continuous recording.

The Sony HDR-HC3 HDV camcorder will be available in April for around $1700.

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