I purchased the Sony DCR-SR47 from V.G. CHIMALGI, an Authorized SONY Dealership in Secunderabad. This is a very compact, easy to use video camera that even a novice could operate right out of the box. But to exploit the full potential of its custom settings, it is worthwhile spending some time becoming familiar with the different operations described in the Instructions Manual(included), and experimenting. Also, even though SONY offers its standard warranty for electronic goods, it would also be advisable going over what’s covered vs. what’s not!
The DCR-SR47 camcorder, with its integral 60GB hard drive, can store up to almost 45 hours of video footage in LP mode, or up to almost 15 hours in HQ mode. Alternately, there is also available an inbuilt slot for a Memory Stick you could use for storing media files. Quite impressive! But the rechargeable Lithium battery that comes with it only lasts a little less than an hour! So unless you’re planning to cart along with you the A/C adapter/battery charging hardware, I strongly suggest you invest in a couple of optional higher range batteries with enough juice to last a few hours.
Product Description – Technical Stuff:
A 1/8-inch Advanced HAD(Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD imager with 410K(effective) pixel resolution delivers stunning detail and clarity for exceptional video and still image performance.A professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens delivers sharp, high resolution images. For close-ups, you will appreciate a powerful 60x optical zoom. You can capture extremely tight shots, even from far away. Sony’s SteadyShot(R) image stabilization helps reduce blur caused by camera shake. Aperture: F1.8 - 6.0. Filter Diameter: 30mm. Focal Distance: 1.8 - 108mm. Shutter Speed: Auto, 1/4 - 1/4000.Built-in zoom microphone adjusts to camera’s zoom lens for clear, crisp dialogue commensurate with the distance of the subject. Direct connection with DVD burner(sold separately) works independent of PC; One Touch Disc Burn.2.7-inch wide touch panel LCD display(123k pixels) rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles and provides exceptional viewing clarity with 123K pixels resolution; allows easy access to menus and additional functionality such as spot focus and spot metering.Quick Power On / Power Off by opening/closing LCD display.Includes Sony PMB(Picture Motion Browser) software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC.Easy Handycam Button locks out most of the advanced features of the camcorder letting you focus only on the buttons essential for recording.Film Roll Index helps you easily find desired scenes in video footage with intelligent preview: scene indexes set at specified display intervals(3, 6, or 12 seconds and 1 or 5 minutes).Face Index function to locate a particular video scene. Face Detection technology simplifies search capability.USB 2.0 interface to connect to a compatible PC for fast transfer of video and still images for editing.
What’s in the Box
DCR-SR47 Camcorder, AC adaptor, rechargeable battery pack, A/V connecting cable, application software, USB cable and owners manual.
GLITCHES/BUGS:
It’s still new and hardly seen any real use as yet, but I noticed on(very rare) occasions the focusing is briefly out of whack when powering on; perhaps as it adjusts to ambient temperature. A quick ‘rebooting’ seems to solve this problem.
WHAT I WOULD CHANGE/ADD: Privacy Jack for earbuds(even though it does have an integral speaker). A/V input jack to record from external sources as a Digital Recording Device(e.g., microphone, security/surveillance cameras, etc.). Option for attaching an external source of light(even though selecting the “Night”/Low Light option on the Touch Screen is usually adequate for normal conditions).
SONY’s current promotion offers an “original” camera bag on purchasing the camcorder. It’s the ‘no frills’ variety that you’d barely be able to stuff the A/C charger, A/V cable, extra batteries, other necessary accessories in it for use ‘on the road’. It would be really nice if they’d substitute it with something more utilitarian; larger with more storage compartments, and perhaps also throw in a 12 volt car adapter and cleaning accessories as well considering the stiff price for this Pocket Wonder: Rs. 24, 000/-