25 October 2005
Latest CMOS Sensor and Enhanced Imaging Processor Deliver Vivid and High Resolution HDV Recording

Dubai, UAE - With the growing popularity and acceptance of High Definition (HD) technology, Sony's new HD Handycam HDR-HC1 breaks new ground as the industry's smallest HDV camcorder.  Packed with high-end features, this camcorder takes form and function to a new level with professional-quality HDV output.

Weighing just 780g (with battery NP-FM50 attached) and measuring 71mm by 94mm by 188mm, the HDR-HC1 is perfect for videographers on the go.  No longer will they have to carry around bulky camera equipment to take beautiful high definition videos.

Brilliant & Unique Technology
The HDR-HC1 is equipped with a 1/3-inch Primary Colour 3.0 Mega Pixels CMOS Sensor to produce high-quality image recording.  Together with the Enhanced Imaging Processor that is specially developed for the CMOS Sensor, a wide dynamic range, high quality and rich tone image expression can be achieved in the video shooting.  In addition, this powerful combination also utilizes low power consumption, thus contributing to the overall compact size of the HDV camcorder.

Intended for the experienced camcorder user eager to shoot the sharpest video picture quality, the HDR-HC1 comes fitted with the high-precision Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, which uses an advanced optical multi-layer coating to reduce unwanted flaring and ghosting on the final image.  Its 10x Optical Zoom and 120x Digital Zoom allows one to get closer to the subject.

The HDR-HC1 is also the first camcorder that allows one to take still images in HDV. 

While conventional camcorders allow its users to capture only VGA-quality still images during video recording, the HDR-HC1's advanced capture function allows one to take high quality 1.2 Mega Pixels still images while recording movies.  What's more, users can also capture the same 1.2 Mega Pixels resolution still images during the playback of their movies.  In Memory mode, 2.8 Mega Pixels still images can be recorded for even greater amount of detail and sharpness. 

HDV and DV Dual Compatibility
Users of the HDR-HC1 have the choice of shooting in HDV1080i (16:9 aspect ratio) or the Standard DV format (16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio), allowing them greater autonomy when choosing the recording mode that best suits their audio-visual environment.  Movies recorded in HDV can be viewed directly on a HD-compatible TV.  Even for consumers with regular Standard Definition (SD) TVs, the high performance down conversion function of the HDR-HC1 automatically converts the recorded HD movies to SD images to enable viewing on their TV sets.

Hear the Difference
The front directional and stereo audio recording function has been greatly enhanced by the utilization of a 4-capsule microphone block and a newly designed circuit, enabling the HDR-HC1 to record clear, crisp and dramatic sound with reduced noise occurrences. What this means is that consumers get to experience and enjoy high quality sound coupled with high quality HD videos in their own living rooms.

You Are in Control
The HDR-HC1 comes with a broad palette of user-programmable settings that promises more flexibility during shooting.  Functions like Tele Macro, Expanded Focus/Peaking, Shot Transition, Histogram Indicator and Soft Skin Tone provide users with a wide and creative platform to work from.

-Ends-

About Sony Gulf FZE
Sony Gulf FZE is a 100% subsidiary of Sony Corporation and is the regional headquarters for the Middle East and Africa regions. The company is engaged in the business of Sony Consumer Electronics, VAIO laptop computers, Computer Peripherals, Data media, Recording Media and Energy (Batteries), Mobile Electronics (Car Audio) and Computer Entertainment (PlayStation) products in more than 40 countries in the region.

Apart from stock operations in the Jebel Ali Free Zone Establishment in Dubai, Sony Gulf FZE leads execution of various logistics, sales, marketing, advertising and customer services activities through its business partners and representative offices. A network of representative offices in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Lebanon and Kenya along with a multiple of service centres reinforces Sony's presence in key markets in the region.

For more information please contact:
Neil D'Sylva
Sony Gulf FZE
Tel: 971 4 8815488
Fax: 971 4 8817808
E-mail: Neil.Dsylva@ap.sony.com

© Press Release 2005