Capturebuzz

Sony has just announced three new state-of-the-art camcorders that can record full HD 1080 video on Memory Stick media or hard disk drives.

The new Handycam HDR-CX7 is the world's smallest and lightest AVCHD high-definition camcorder. It can record nearly three hours of full HD 1080 video on an 8GB Memory Stick PRO Duoâ„¢ media card (LP mode). Weighing just 15 ounces with the supplied battery, it provides ultra-portability as well as a crash-proof recording system, instant archiving to Memory Stick PRO Duoâ„¢ media (sold separately), and connection to a PC via USB for editing and back-up.

The new Handycam HDR-SR7 AVCHD camcorder can record more than 22 hours of full HD 1080 video on its built-in 60GB hard disk drive, while the HDR-SR5 model's 40GB hard drive can hold more than 15 hours of footage (LP modes). In addition to long recording times, these two models offer compactness and Sony's HDD Smart Protectionâ„¢ system to safeguard against data loss as well as easy connection to PCs via USB.

All three models incorporate Sony's ClearVid™ CMOS sensor technology for stunning detail and clarity. Combined with the Enhanced Imaging Processor™ technology, these models deliver the advantages of high resolution, high sensitivity with low noise, and virtually smear-free pictures. Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* optics insure perfect contrast and true-to-life color saturation.

The HDR-CX7 and HDR-SR7 models utilize Sony's 3MP sensor for full HD 1080 video and 6MP digital still photos. They are also equipped with Super SteadyShot® optical image stabilization (OIS) to produce smooth video results, as well as virtually blur-free photos. The HDR-SR5 integrates a 2MP sensor for full HD 1080 video and produces a 4MP still photo. The HDR-SR5 uses electronic image stabilization (EIS) to correct for shaking.

The HDR-SR5, HDR-CX7 and HDR-SR7 camcorders will ship in June for $1,100, $1,200 and $1,400 – respectively (US MSRP). Optional accessories will also be available. You can pre-order online at www.sonystyle.com/handycam or Amazon.com (see links below).