Sony DCR-HC48 Press Release Excerpt

With such a wide variety of DV editing software in the marketplace, serious video editors are drawn to mini DV tape camcorders. Sony is introducing three tape-based models with feature sets to suit beginners and advanced camcorder users.

The top-of-the-line DCR-HC48 model features one-megapixel digital still photo capture, a 25x optical zoom, a wide 16:9 aspect ratio LCD screen, a new on-screen usage guide, and a supplied Handycam Station for a quick, one-time connection to a TV, PC or printer.

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All of the new mini DV models deliver a combination of Carl Zeiss optics, Sony’s high-resolution CCD imaging technology, and long battery life.
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The DCR-HC48, 38, and 28 will be available in February for about $400, $330, and $280, respectively.

Sony DCR-HC48 Reviews

CamcorderInfo has a first impressions review of the Sony DCR-HC48 and writes, “The integrated lens cover is a great addition that’s usually only found in higher-end models. The body also fits even more snugly in your palm than last year’s MiniDV Handycams. We find the placement of some buttons in the LCD cavity rather than the exterior on the left side to be inferior as they are less accessible when shooting with the viewfinder. Yet this is a change that should impact only a small number of users who prefer the EVF to the user-friendly LCD. … this camcorder is a modestly improved iteration of the DCR-HC46. The menu interface, LCD and EVF, and core specs remain essentially unchanged while the ergonomics are a touch better. Meanwhile, manual controls (which have seen some promising improvement in high-end Sonys like the HDR-HC7 and HDR-SR1, thanks to their manual control dials) remains limited and plagued by a poorly implemented touch screen interface. Yet for point-and-shooters who have little use for a competent manual control suite, the HC48 should be an attractive little device given its best feature of all: a MSRP of just $400, representing a $100 drop from the initial price of its predecessor.” Link.

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