Create high-def content with Sony's HDR-HC1 camcorder

Tired of looking for HD programming? Consider making your own with the HDR-HC1 from Sony. This camera lists for $1,999 but we've found some on-line prices a few hundred less than that.

The HC1 features full 1080i recording capabilities in widescreen 16:9 format, using a low-power CMOS sensor capable of 3-megapixels. The 2.7-inch hybrid-LCD viewscreen allows you to preview your "HD production". Sony smartly chose a Carl Zeiss lens that provides 10x optical zoom, which can be enhanced with an additional 120x zoom. IEEE 1394 and USB ports are also standard. Under two pounds, the HC1 looks like an HD winner on paper. Maybe we'll pick one up and start our own HD channel since high-def programming is a little sparse.

 

[(Unverified) Posted Nov 8th 2005 5:56PM]

It's 1080i and 16:9.

[(Unverified) Posted Nov 16th 2005 10:10AM]

While #1 is right that it does technically record at 1440x1080 it is nothing like 4:3 HD. The resolution actually doesn't use square pixles so it retains the 16:9 aspect ratio. When captured on the computer and processed it is always output at 1920x1080 resolution.

As for the quality of this camera it is superb. I recently brought it to the MCAS Miramar Air Show and shot some footage of the Blue Angels and other flying demonstrations. I have a preview clip posted of this airshow that you may check out if you're interested. The two MPEG files can be played in VLC and the WMV file can be played in Microsoft Windows Media Player.

WMV 720p: http://www.archive.org/download/DannyRossMCASMiramarAirshow_0/Airshow_Preview.wmv

MPEG 1080i: http://www.archive.org/download/DannyRossMCASMiramarAirshow_0/Airshow_preview_1080i.m2t

MPEG 720p:
http://www.archive.org/download/DannyRossMCASMiramarAirshow_0/Airshow_preview_720.m2t

[(Unverified) Posted Nov 16th 2005 2:03PM]

I've had the Everio 3CCD JVC camcorder, then quickly traded it in for HDR-HC1. I love the size of the JVC and the video quality was superb. The HDR-HC1 is on a whole different league than the JVC. The clarity on the Sony is amazing! My only complaints would be it's size, and no inclusion of any type of software to off load the content from tape to computer. I'm now using Adobe Premier which does a great job.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 8th 2005 8:43AM]

I love the HC1 but I'll never buy it. I don't think 1 CMOS is better than 3 CCDs. Not that anyone will start an argument about that (though you never know).

I still prefer the Sony FX1. If you want PAL and NTSC, then it's the Z1.

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 8th 2005 8:45AM]

Btw, I reviewed the Sony FX1 here (one year later):
http://www.filmdailies.com/archives/sony-fx1/

I'm planning to do the Z1 next :)

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 8th 2005 9:07AM]

Btw, I reviewed the Sony FX1 here (one year later):
http://www.filmdailies.com/archives/sony-fx1/

I'm planning to do the Z1 next :)

[(Unverified) Posted Dec 16th 2005 11:46AM]

I own the FX1 and the quality is unbelievable for the price.

I'd love to get an HC1 as well for a second camera. The FX1 is nice, but it's a little too big to take on the ski slopes. Your footage is only as good as the places you're willing to take your camera, and a smaller HD cam like the HC1 is ideal for those situations.

[(Unverified) Posted Jul 30th 2005 1:03PM]

It's not true 1080, it's only 1440x1080. So like, 4:3 high-def?? *shrug*