Panasonic has announced details of what it claims is the world’s smallest and lightest 3CCD high-definition camcorder. The HDC-SD5 can record Full HD 1920x1080 videos onto SHDC memory cards and features 3CCD image capture and advanced Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
The device is said to have no moving parts in the recording area for better durability and there’s a new USB host function that claims to improve data storage and playback. This model is accompanied by the HDC-SX5 – a camcorder that can record onto both SDHC/SD memory cards and DVD discs – as well as being able to copy footage from memory card to DVD at the touch of the button.
Both models use the high-resolution AVCHD format and feature the same 3CCD camera system used by many professional broadcast cameras. To compliment the newly developed Full HD CCD, Panasonic has also enhanced its Crystal Engine image processor. A new noise reduction circuit is combined with Intelligent Contrast Control to improve image quality while reducing power consumption – so you get longer battery-life.
The advanced OIS system performs compensation operations eight times more frequently than the previous system to deliver greater detail and accuracy. It also uses gyro sensors to detect shaking hands, then shifts its lens and adjusts its optical axis accordingly.
Both the HDC-SD5 and the HDC-SX5 will be available in the US from September, priced $999 and $899 respectively.
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