Sony describes the HVR-V1E as a new professional HDV camcorder suited to cost-effective productions seeking a cinematic look. Introduced at IBC, the camera offers full HDV resolution and a 25p progressive-scan function. Sony Europe product marketing manager Stuart Reed positioned the progressive mode for filmmakers working with smaller budgets. Sony reported worldwide deliveries of more than 90,000 HDV units since its first HDV equipment launched in January 2005.
The HVR-V1E uses three ClearVid CMOS sensors with Sony’s Enhanced Imaging Processor. Sony claims the combination delivers high sensitivity, low noise and wide dynamic range, while the sensor design avoids smear and enables Smooth Slow Recording through scanning at four times normal speed. The Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens includes an extra-low-dispersion element and a 20x optical zoom with an F2.8 aperture at the telephoto end. The Digital Extender function increases the telephoto focal length by approximately 1.5 times, reaching an equivalent of 1,100 mm in 35 mm terms.
Sony says the native 25p progressive-scan format records at full HDV resolution, rather than producing a progressive look by interpolating interlaced images. Footage recorded in this mode can be played on all Sony professional HDV camcorders and video recorders and edited with mainstream nonlinear editing systems. Cinematone Gamma, Cinematone Colour and Last Scene Review are also provided to support a cinematic look.
The professional sibling of the consumer HDR-FX7E adds timecode presets, a timecode link for synchronising multiple cameras, two XLR microphone inputs for independent audio recording, and camera profiles for multicamera setups.
The HVR-V1E is similar in size and weight to the DSR-PD170 DVCAM handheld camcorder. With an NP-F970 battery, it can operate for eight hours. Sony DigitalMaster MiniDV tapes provide as much as 63 minutes of continuous recording in HDV mode.
Sony is also introducing the HVR-DR60 disk recorder to simplify HDV acquisition. Through an i.LINK connection it records HDV, DVCAM and DV streams from Sony HDV and DVCAM camcorders. Recording to tape and disk simultaneously allows longer sessions and faster transfer to nonlinear editing systems. Paired with the HVR-V1E, it also supports tapeless recording and immediate status checks on the camcorder’s panels.
Sony planned accessories for late 2006 and spring 2007, including a battery-powered LED video light, a wide-angle conversion lens and an LCD hood. The HVR-V1E was expected to ship in November 2006; Sony had not announced pricing.
