Since final output of HD footage outside of our computers continues to be a challenge, most of us need to simply play back our edited projects from the camcorder to either an SD or HDTV. The HC7 makes either option easy, by real-time down-conversion through A/V composite or component cables or by using the HDMI connection.

We are surprised to see what were previously pro-level features appear in such a small camcorder. Color bars, built-in spot meter, manual control of all basic functions, super slow-motion, zebras, external mic jack and manual control of audio levels and lens filter threads are just some of the many powerful options crammed into the HC7. Along with shooting in HD, that certainly makes it a camcorder worth your consideration.

Format: HDV
Image Sensor: 1/2.9" 3200K gross pixels ClearVid CMOS sensor
Video Effective Pixels: (Actual)2280K pixels (16:9), 1710K pixels (4:3)
Interchangeable Lenses: No
Lens f-stop: 1.8-2.9
Optical Zoom: 10x
Focal Length: 2.2-55mm
Filter Diameter: 37mm
Focus: Auto/Manual (button-driven)
Iris/Gain Control: Auto, manual
Shutter Speed: Auto/AE mode-selectable
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/500
Minimum Shutter Speed: 1/2
Image Stabilization: Optical
Internal ND Filter: No
Program Exposure Modes: 8
Manual White Balance: Yes
Zebra Stripes: Yes
Viewfinder Color: 123K pixels
LCD Monitor: 2.7" 211K pixels (16:9)
Video In: FireWire
Video Out: AV cord (component, stereo RCA), USB port, FireWire, HDMI
Color Bar Generator: Yes
Audio Modes: Stereo
Microphone In: Yes
VU Meter: Yes
Manual Audio Level Controls: Yes
Headphone Jack: Yes
Speaker: Yes
Wireless Remote: Yes
External Battery Charger Provided: No
Battery Type: Lithium ion
Form Factor: Standard, horizontal
Tape Loading Configuration: Side
On-board Video Light: No
Accessory Shoe: Yes, active interface

• Good image quality
• Reliable automatic modes
• Manual control options

• Most functions accessed through touchscreen menus

Sony's HDR-HC7 HDV Camcorder is a feature-rich but user-friendly HDV camcorder that produces good-quality images at a reasonable price.

Contributing editor Brian Peterson is a video production consultant, trainer and lecturer.

Sony
16530 Via Esprillo
San Diego, CA 92127
www.sonystyle.com

$1,400