Sony Unveils Upgraded DVCAM Professional Compact Camcorder

PARK RIDGE, N.J., - Sony has introduced the DSR-PD170 compactcamcorder to its DVCAM line of professional video equipment, thefastest-growing professional video format with more than 400,000 unitssold worldwide. The new DSR-PD170 builds on the legacy of itspredecessor model, the DSR-PD150, the overwhelming choice of videoprofessionals in applications ranging from corporate and educationalproduction to ENG/EFP, television and independent cinemaproduction.

"The DSR-PD170 distinguishes itself with the addition of severalperformance and ergonomic enhancements, many of which are the directresult of customer feedback," said Robert Ott, vice president ofprofessional audio and video products for Sony Electronics' Broadcastand Production Systems Division.

"When something works, you not only stay with it, but you alsocontinually look for ways to make it better. In designing theDSR-PD170, we listened to our customers and incorporated their input.The result is a reliable camcorder that continues to meet theprofessional videography needs of an even broader user base."

New features of the DSR-PD170 include:

• Minimum illumination improvement for low-light recording increasedfrom 2 lux to an industry-leading 1 lux

• A new 2.5-inch Hybrid LCD SwivelScreen monitor for improved viewingin bright sunlight

• Simultaneous turn-on of LCD panel and viewfinder

• Increased adjustment steps on Iris control, with number of stepsdoubled from 12 to 24

• A lens hood featuring built-in lens cover. Wide conversion lens(provided) can be attached or removed without removing the hood

• A larger handle, viewfinder and eyecup

• Additional Record/Start/Stop and Zoom controls on top handle to aidin one-handed operation and

• Audio quality (S/N ratio) in the manual recording mode improved by 6dB.

The new professional camcorder enables digital component audio andvideo acquisition in the DVCAM and DV formats. Under a wide range ofinterior and exterior shooting conditions, users can achieve up to 40minutes of recording on one Mini DVCAM tape or 60 minutes on the sametape in the DV mode.

The camcorder's three Advanced HAD, 1/3 inch CCDs enable bothinterlaced and progressive scanning modes, and also providehigh-quality acquisition with increased resolution and sensitivity.Noise levels and vertical smear are also significantly reduced.

"The field of professional digital videography has grownsignificantly to include a wide range of users who require new levelsof camcorder performance," Ott said. "With its combination of designinnovations and foundation of proven technology, the DSR-PD170 iswell-equipped to carry on the Sony tradition of reliability,flexibility and quality."

The new model features a built-in MemoryStick slot for still imagestorage, with capacity for up to 988 JPEG pictures on one 64 MBMemoryStick. Stored images can be mixed or keyed to live images,enabling users to insert logos and/or mix effects.

For users requiring high levels of control and stability, theDSR-PD170 features a 12X optical and a 48X digital zoom lens withAutofocus and SuperSteadyShot(r) functions as well as auto or manualexposure capabilities.

The camcorder's video ability is complemented by several key audiofeatures, including built-in speaker, a directional shotgun (mono)microphone and two independent professional XLR audio inputs withindependent audio levels, gain and 48V phantom power. There are alsoseveral options available, including Sony's professional UWP wirelesssystem with adapters fitted for the DSR-PD170.

The DSR-PD170 DVCAM camcorder will be available this December. Itwill be offered in both NTSC and PAL versions at suggested retailprices of $3,940 and $4,750, respectively.