CES 2009: Sony reveals latest HD/SD Handycams with ridiculous optical zooms

Camcorders, CES 2009
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I’m sure there’s a competition among camcorder manufacturers this year to see what the biggest optical zoom they can put on their latest models is. Sony’s latest standard definition camcorders boast a 60x optical zoom.

Sony’s has launched nine new models in its SX range, with features including a choice of recording formats (DVD, hard disc or Memory Stick) depending on model, one second quick start-up, SteadyShot image stabilisation and Carl Zeiss lens.

Sony’s latest HD Handycam range (HDR-XR520VE, HDR-XR500VE, HDR-XR200VE, HDR-XR105E, and HDR-CX105E) shoot full high definition video, with features including the super-sensitive Exmor R CMOS sensor for low-noise images even in low light, a premium Sony G lens for advanced optical performance and greater light level capture, active optical SteadyShot mode for ten times improved anti-shake performance over previous Handycams, up to 15x optical zoom, plus a GPS module so you can geo-tag your video.

There’s also a whopping 240GB hard drive on the HDR-XR520VE, which translates into over 100 hours of full HD storage.

Both high definition and standard definition ranges will be available in the UK from February, prices to be confirmed.

Complete CES 2009 coverage roundup

Andy Merrett
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