Sony has entered the year with four new standard-definition DVD camcorder models, the DCR-DVD610, DCR-DVD710, DCR-DVD810, and DCR-DVD910. All four models feature the ability to record footage to Memory Stick PRO Duo cards, a feature that could alleviate much of the stress associated with running out of space on a 1.4-2.6GB 8cm DVD. Smart move, Sony. The lowest-end model, the DVD610, features a new 680k, 1/8″ CCD, 40x optical zoom, and the rather standard 2.7″ widescreen LCD.
Upgrade to the Sony DCR-DVD710 and you will get yourself a sharper, 1 megapixel CCD, 25x optical zoom, and Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound recording.
The next model in line, the Sony DCR-DVD810, features an 8GB internal flash drive. This can be used along with the memory card slot and 8cm DVDs for three different recording options.
The top-of-the-line model, the Sony DCR-DVD910, loses the internal drive but gains a 2.3 megapixel, 1/5″ CMOS sensor, 15x zoom, and Sony’s face detection feature, which is brand new this year in camcorders. Face detection will track up to 8 faces and automatically adjust focus, exposure and color to present the best quality possible when recording people.
