Camcorder Review: Sony DSR-PD150 DVCAM (page 2)

Features Yes, and a Pretty Picture

The DSR-PD150's digital features are similar to other comparable video cameras, offering a modest array of digital effects like Old Movie, Sepia, etc. Of course, shooters who would be attracted to this model would likely opt to add such effects in post. It also features a progressive scan mode as well as Memory Stick removable storage for digital stills, albeit at a barely adequate 640x480 pixel count. Along with visual digital effects, the camera possesses significant edit capabilities. We could input a list of edit points, which made the DSR-PD150 a viable edit deck as well as acquisition device.

We shot footage with this camcorder in a variety of situations. We shot a studio model with controlled lighting, in bright midday light on a golf course, at 10,000 feet in a national park, in deep woods with fall colors and snowmobiles in action. Without exception, this little camera provided beautiful color saturation and resolution, held focus in all conditions and performed well in high- and low-light situations. Manual white balance read accurately in all situations and the resulting footage garnered unsolicited positive comment from many. The DSR-PD150's picture just looks better than other cameras in this price range and with its audio features and extensive manual controls, deserves considerable attention when the considering purchase of a DV camcorder.

TECH SPECS

Format: DVCam or Mini DV
Lens: fl=6.0 to 72.0mm; f/1.6-2.4; 12:1 optical zoom, 48:1 digital zoom; 58mm filter
Image sensor: 3-CCD 1/3-inch; 380,000
pixels each (340,000 effective)
Viewfinder: 500 lines H. resolution
B&W (180,000 pixels)
LCD viewscreen: 2.5-inch color (200,000 pixels)
Focus: auto, manual
Maximum shutter speed: 1/10,000 sec.
White balance: auto, manual
Digital effects: 8
Audio: 12-bit or 16-bit stereo
Inputs: IEEE 1394, S-video, composite,
RCA audio, 2x XLR mike/line with +48v phantom power
Outputs: IEEE 1394, S-video, composite,
RCA audio, headphone
Edit interface: LANC, IEEE 1394
Other features: 70% and 100% zebra indicator, spotlight and backlight buttons, 8MB Memory Stick, audio meters
Dimensions: 125(w) x 180(h) x 405(d) millimeters
Weight (sans tape and battery): 1.5 kg

Performance Times

Pause to Record: 0.4 seconds
Power-up to Record: 7.5 seconds
Fast forward/Rewind (60 min. tape):
2 minutes 40 seconds
Tested Horizontal Resolution: 530 lines

STRENGTHS