Oct 27, 2003 02:37 PM
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(Updated Oct 27, 2003 02:37 PM)
Note: This model has been discontinued. However, it might still be available for sale. The MSRP and warranty were valid at the time the model was discontinued.
Emerging technologies melded with the current standards in digital video camcorders present the beginning of the next-generation camcorders that record in Internet-ready formats. For those who crave the latest and greatest in consumer electronics, the Sony MD Discam is the world’s first MD (MiniDisc) digital video camcorder that records in MPEG2 video and ATRAC audio combined.
Variable MPEG2 compression is controlled via Adaptive Resolution. Using the MD Data Disc 2 media (650 MB), up to twenty minutes of high-quality video, 640 x 480 VGA JPEGs, or 260 minutes of high-fidelity audio can be stored on a single disc. With disc-based direct access, a precise sector can be located without rewinding or fast-forwarding.
Other new technologies included in the DCM-M1 include a Personal Java 2.0 touch screen graphical user interface, non-linear editing capability, and Ethernet connectivity for on-the-fly transfer from the camera to a PC using a web browser. The camera has 64 MB of shock-resistant memory. Modes for playback include picture-in-picture, nine-frame sequence, repeat shuffle, intro scan and sort.
Similar to other digital camcorders, the Sony MD Discam has a full-color 113,000-pixel ocular viewfinder and a 3.5-inch swiveling 184,000-pixel LCD for crisp images during recording and playback. Adding to the recordings’ clarity is the CCD Imaging System and advanced picture stabilization technology. The DCM-M1’s lens with auto and manual focus has zoom capacity of optical 10X and digital 40x. Optional conversions for a 0.06X wide angle (MSRP $80.00) and 2.0X telephoto (MSRP $100.00) lenses are available.
Seven pre-programmed AE modes, eight transition modes and touch-screen drawing ability gives users a multitude of options to customize and edit images. The unit ships with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Battery-time remaining in minutes is constantly displayed in the LCD panel or viewfinder. The MD Discam has no built-in light source, but the accessory shoe provides a jack for an optional light source (MSRP $150.00) as well as other input devices such as microphones and headsets.
Specifications:
16:9 Widescreen na
Color Lcd Viewfinder yes
Connectivity na
Depth 4 6/10 in.
Digital Effects yes
Editing Software yes
Electronic Image Stab yes
Fades yes
Focal Range 3.33mm to 33mm
Focus na
Height 4 3/10 in.
Lcd On Body yes
Lens Aperture 30mm
Lux Rating 11 lux
Nbr Of Video Heads na
Night Vision na
Number Of Pixels 600000 nbr.
Titler.(Pages) na
Weight 1.75 lbs.
Width 2 9/10 in.
Wipes yes
Zoom Ratio 10X and 40X
Warranty:
Parts: 1 year
Labor: 90 days
