Overall, impressive video and decent sound can now be had in a camcorder no larger than your TV's remote control. This camcorder is a good example of the plummeting cost of the ticket into the world of high-definition.

Recording Media: 4GB internal flash memory
Data Format: H.264, 720p
Image Sensor: One 1/4.5" CMOS, pixel count not provided
Lens
Interchangeable Lenses: No
F-Stop: f/2.4
Optical Zoom Power: n/a
Filter Diameter: No filter threads
Focus: Fixed
Internal ND Filter: No
Video Features
Shutter Speed: Auto
White Balance Control: Auto
Direct Iris/Gain Control: No
Zebra Stripes: No
Viewfinder: Color
LCD Monitor: 1.5", 16:9 aspect ratio
Frame Rate Modes: 30fps
Color Bar Generator: No
Audio Features
Audio Modes: AAC
Standard Mic Input: No
VU Meters: No
Level Controls: No
Headphone Jack: No
Speaker: No
Video Input/Output
Analog Video In: No
Analog Video Out: Composite
FireWire In/Out: No
Analog to DV Conversion: No
USB: Yes
Other Digital Video Out: No
Miscellaneous
Wireless Remote: No
Battery Charging: Via USB port
Form Factor: Upright, rotated
Onboard Video Light: No
Accessory Shoe: No

• Small, handy size
• High quality video output
• Very simple and easy to use

• No mic or earphone jack
• Too-simple editing software
• Tough to shoot steady video consistently
• Poor automatic white balance
• No HD playback directly from camcorder

Overall, the MinoHD is an impressive offering for the very few bucks it may cost the consumer.

Randy Hansen is a TV news chief photographer.

Pure Digital Technologies
30 Maiden Ln., Fl. 6
San Francisco, CA 94108
www.theflip.com
$230