PARK RIDGE, N.J., Sept. 25, 2008 – For the first time in its 17-season history, CBS’ “Survivor” is being broadcast in high-definition using Sony’s XDCAM® HD™ optical disc system to produce on-location segments.

The new season “Survivor: Gabon - Earth's Last Eden” premieres in HD on Sept. 25, marking a technological milestone for the ground-breaking reality series.

 "Sony's XDCAM HD system will start a new era for the show," said Executive Producer Mark Burnett. "The system brings the exotic locales to life brilliantly, creating an immediacy that draws viewers right into the frame. This is something we'd been looking to do for some time, and now it has become a reality."

The XDCAM HD camcorders, decks and Professional Disc™ media are being used on the series as a complete optical disc-based HD workflow system, which is ideal for reality TV’s unscripted style. The technology has become a favorite of reality television producers for its on-set flexibility, random access and editing convenience.

“Reality crews are capturing hours of footage with action occurring on the fly so a camcorder that can be ready at a moment’s notice is key for them,” said Wayne Zuchowski, Sony Electronics’ XDCAM marketing manager. “The decision to shoot “Survivor” with XDCAM HD technology will push the production boundaries for reality TV, creating a new sensation much as the series did at its introduction.”

Sony’s newest generation of optical technology, the XDCAM HD422 camcorder (model PDW-700) and deck (model PDW-HD1500) is also rapidly gaining acceptance and commitments from broadcasters, television producers, rental houses and others.