Sony upgrades DVCAM professional compact camcorder

Sony's new DSR-PD170 camcorder has three Advanced HAD, 1/3 inch CCDs enable both interlaced and progressive scanning modes, and also provide high-quality acquisition with increased resolution and sensitivity.

Sony has introduced the DSR-PD170 compact camcorder to its DVCAM line of professional video equipment.

The new DSR-PD170 builds on the legacy of its predecessor model, the DSR-PD150.

New features of the DSR-PD170 include:

• Minimum illumination improvement for low-light recording; increased from 2 lux to an 1 lux;

• A new 2.5-inch Hybrid LCD SwivelScreen monitor for improved viewing in bright sunlight;

• Simultaneous turn-on of LCD panel and viewfinder;

• Increased adjustment steps on Iris control, with number of steps doubled from 12 to 24;

• A lens hood featuring built-in lens cover. Wide conversion lens (provided) can be attached or removed without removing the hood;

• A larger handle, viewfinder and eyecup;

• Additional Record/Start/Stop and Zoom controls on top handle to aid in one-handed operation; and

• Audio quality (S/N ratio) in the manual recording mode improved by 6 dB.

The new professional camcorder enables digital component audio and video acquisition in the DVCAM and DV formats. Under a wide range of interior and exterior shooting conditions, users can achieve up to 40 minutes of recording on one Mini DVCAM tape or 60 minutes on the same tape in the DV mode. The camcorder’s three Advanced HAD, 1/3 inch CCDs enable both interlaced and progressive scanning modes, and also provide high-quality acquisition with increased resolution and sensitivity. Noise levels and vertical smear are also significantly reduced.

The new model features a built-in MemoryStick slot for still image storage, with capacity for up to 988 JPEG pictures on one 64 MB MemoryStick. Stored images can be mixed or keyed to live images, enabling users to insert logos and/or mix effects.

For users requiring high levels of control and stability, the DSR-PD170 features a 12X optical and a 48X digital zoom lens with Autofocus and SuperSteadyShot functions as well as auto or manual exposure capabilities.

The camcorder’s video ability is complemented by several key audio features, including built-in speaker, a directional shotgun (mono) microphone and two independent professional XLR audio inputs with independent audio levels, gain and 48V phantom power. There are also several options available, including Sony’s professional UWP wireless system with adapters fitted for the DSR-PD170.

The DSR-PD170 DVCAM camcorder will be available this December.