Photography enthusiasts can look forward to a continuous shooting experience with this new Sony offering. Yes, the CES, 2010 did witnessed a number of the company’s gems with a new Handycam having dual memory card slots, the first of its kind being one of the high-spots. Sony slid the covers of the HDR-AX2000E Handycam at the CES that claims to offer pro-style shooting at a more affordable price.
Proffering superior HD image along with a host of pro-style features, video enthusiasts can now grab this new Sony Handycam offering at an accessible price. Keeping in lines with the company’s professional camcorder portfolio, the new device allows videographers to exploit their creative abilities. Complementing the manual controls is the device’s superlative optical performance and superior ergonomics.
Catering to the requirements of a pro-style workflow, the HDR-AX2000E claims to be the first Handycam enabled for uninterrupted ‘relay’ recording on dual memory card slots. Yes, users need to no longer worry about having just one memory card as the camcorder continues recording automatically on a second memory card inserted in the other card slot. This also helps to save on storage space. Users can choose their shooting preferences with the slots for Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD/SDHC memory cards that are sold separately.
Delivering enhanced HD picture quality, the camera is bundled with the 1/3-type Exmor 3CMOS sensors with ClearVid array and robust Enhanced Image Processor (EIP). Users are offered high-quality results having lowered image noise that should suit even when shooting in low-light conditions. The sensors are accompanied by the bright and premium G lens that has an optical zoom range of around 20x covering focal lengths from 29.5mm wide angle to 590mm. Boosting the zoom range is a 1.5x digital extender.
Encompassed with Optical SteadyShot image stabilization enhanced with new Active Mode, the camera also wraps in a new FX Mode. The FX mode allows capture of detail-packed 1920×1080/50i video at a full 24Mbps. With a 25p progressive mode for cinematic HD images, simply adjusting picture profile settings will allow users to enhance the ‘Filmic’ quality of progressive images. Incorporated with a host of manual functions, the camera also includes features like independent zoom, focus and iris rings.
Featuring separately adjustable shutter speed and gain, the device wraps in dedicated controls for both along with white balance. A focus switch should allow users to take advantage of the quick, positive mode selection and three switchable ND filters. The Handycam also claims to be the first of its kind to be infused with a high-quality integrated microphone that is complemented by two professional XLR connectors. This should allow users to add a stereo pair of external microphones where internal and external mic signals can be mixed on board.
In addition to this, users can also choose from a wide range of compatible accessories available. The VCL HG0872X high-grade wide conversion lens offers an effective focal length of 23.6mm and the SH L32W LCD hood gives enhanced visibility of the 3.2-type LCD in bright shooting conditions. Having enough accessory space, the LCS-VCC high-capacity soft carry case could also make for a great accompaniment.
Starting February, 2010, the Handycam HDR-AX2000E will be available.