New range of consumer High Definition Handycam Camcorders offering the convenience of all recording formats

These latest introductions along with the recently launched HDV Camcorder HDR-HC3 complete the full-circle of HANDYCAM recording formats in high definition, each of which provide extraordinary brightness and clarity to family memories.

Introducing the products at a press conference, Mr. Masaru Tamagawa, Managing Director, Sony Gulf FZE said, "High definition is the biggest revolution that is transforming the entertainment and consumer electronics businesses. And the reason is not hard to imagine. Compelling images and sound, with over 4 times more detail than currently used standard definition makes capturing memorable family moments, watching football matches, a movie or a music video a deeper and richer experience. Once you experience high definition there is no going back."

"Moreover, high definition products offer a distinct advantage over standard definition products, not just in terms of video quality but audio quality as well. Consumers can benefit from the new High Definition Handycam models with a wider choice of media available to record and playback high-definition movies. These launches have once again set another milestone for the high definition market," added Mr. Tamagawa.

The launch of these high-definition Handycam camcorders, based on the new AVCHD format, extends Sony's leadership and demonstrates its commitment to develop the highest quality high-definition products for the consumer market. The AVCHD format enables recording and playback of movies and images in high-definition on various media including 8 cm. DVD disc and hard disk.

This format allows quick random access of the data for easy search. It integrates the highly efficient MPEG-4 AVC/H2.64 video codec and 5.1channel Dolby® Digital audio to provide advantages of HD 16:9 widescreen, multi-channel digital audio and resolution up to 1080i. Contents in the AVCHD disc can be viewed on devices including PC DVD drives with bundled software supporting AVCHD format.

The HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 offer a flexible choice to record movies in 1080i high-definition or standard definition. The HDR-UX1 captures movies to an 8cm DVD disc while the HDR-SR1 records onto an internal 30GB hard disk. Both models are equipped with Sony's image sensor, the ClearVid CMOS Sensor, which utilizes unique pixel configuration to realize natural colours and rich details close to the perception of the human eye. Complemented with 5.1channel Surround Sound recording, users can indulge in an immersive experience of sights and sounds during playback.

HDR-UX1 - Recording 1080i High Definition video direct to DVD

With four picture quality recording options available for high-definition videos, users can choose to record in 5Mbps (HD-LP) for a longer recording time or the option for the super high picture quality in 12Mbps (HD-HQ+). The HDR-UX1 supports the 8cm DVD+R DL (Double Layer) with a greater availability of data capacity for high quality recording up to 60 minutes of HD video in 5Mbps (HD-LP) mode and up to 27 minutes in top quality 12Mbps (HD-HQ+) mode. It is also compatible with commonly used formats such as 8cm DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW.

HDR-SR1 - Built-in 30GB hard disk for long recording hours in 1080i High Definition

The HDR-SR1 offers highly extended recording times with its integrated 30GB hard disk and multiple HD recording options for approximately 11 hours in 5Mbps (HD-LP) mode. It can also record in supreme-quality (HD-XP) mode which can accommodate to approximately 4 hours of high-definition video at 15Mbps bit rate for outstanding details, clarity and colours.

Memories are precious and Sony has implemented the HDD Smart Protection System in HDR-SR1 to safeguard stored videos and images. Its 3G sensor can detect sudden falls and utilizes specially designed physical shock absorbers to help cushion against impact and protects the hard disk.

The HDR-SR1 comes with bundled software for easy backup including the convenient 'One Touch Disc Burn' function to create finished discs of video recordings with a single button on the camcorder. If the contents are captured in standard definition, data will be transferred to the PC and automatically burned as a DVD. High-definition video will be processed with AVCHD format on DVD media.

HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 - Multi-connectivity and Playback Option

Direct connection for HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 to a high-definition TV via HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port, component jack or to a PC via standard USB 2.0 provides quick playback to the captured videos. For viewing on PC DVD drive, the bundled AVCHD playback software is required to be installed to play the disc recorded in AVCHD format. The disc can also be played on either AVCHD-compatible Blu-ray drive or stand-alone Blu-ray player/recorder.

HDR-HC3 - Make the move to HD while retaining compatibility with standard definition

Introduced to the Middle Eastern market in the early July, the HDR-HC3 Handycam® camcorder makes quality high definition filming easy. With HD and SD Recording Modes, consumers can make the move to HD while retaining compatibility with standard definition equipment. The HDR-HC3 sets the industry standard in resolution quality with its ClearVid CMOS Image Sensor™, capturing precise detail and superior color reproduction. Dual Record Mode lets you capture 2.3 Mega pixel stills while shooting high definition video.

Weighing just 510g, the HD Codec Engine in HDR-HC3 records in 1080 effective scanning lines, twice as many compared to Standard Definition and captures 4 times more video information on every single minor detail for a vivid memory for the pleasure viewing on HDTV. Its multi-connectivity HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connects to any digital visual interface devices like a television or a home theatre system with the same cable, to enable instant viewing of movies in high-definition quality.