Capturebuzz

Sony has replaced the HDR-CX7 with the new HDR-CX12, an HD camcorder that captures full 1920 x 1080 HD video in the AVCHD format to MemoryStick Duo cards. New on a camcorder is Sony’s Smile Shutter technology, brought over from its still camera line, which allows for video recording while simultaneously capturing still photos when subjects smile.

In addition to the Smile technology, the camcorder (2.8″ x 5.3″ x 2.8″) is about the size of a can of soda. It’s roughly the same size as its primary competitor, the Canon VIXIA HF100. On the plus side for Sony, Canon does not provide an SDHC card with of the VIXIA HF100, while the Sony HDR-CX12 ships with a 4GB MemoryStick PRO Duo card.

The HDR-CX12 features a 12x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens coupled to a 1/3.13-inch CMOS sensor with a gross pixel count of 5,660,000. Besides full 1920 x 1080 HD video, the HDR-CX12 is capable of taking a 10.2MP still image. Both the new Exmor sensor and Bionz processing technology are included.

The HDR-CX12 also includes a multi-function dial located on the front for controlling exposure, white balance, and other functions. The AVCHD bitrate remains slightly lower than the industry average, with a peak speed of 16Mbps. The Canon VIXIA HF100 records at 17Mbps.

A full set of specifications can be found on the SonyStyle site.

What’s in the box

• HDR-CX12 Camcorder
• Memory Stick PRO Duo 4GB
• Wireless Remote Commander (RMT-835)
• InfoLITHIUM battery (NP-FH60)
• CD-ROM (“Picture Motion Browser” for Microsoft Windows, Handycam Handbook)
• Handycam Station
• AC Adaptor (AC-L200)
• Power cord
• USB Cable
• A/V connecting cable
• Component A/V Cable

Price and Availability

The Sony HDR-CX12 will be available in early August for a price of $900 (MSRP). It can be pre-ordered ordered from Amazon.com. See the link below.

In the UK, see the Sony HDR-CX11 (link below).