SONY EXPANDS PROFESSIONAL DVCAM LINEUP WITH TWO NEW 2/3-INCH CAMCORDERS, ONE WITH 24P
PARK RIDGE, N.J., Feb. 15, 2005 - Sony is expanding its line of DVCAM professional camcorders with the introduction of the DSR-400 and the DSR-450WS models.
The new camcorders feature a rugged design for use in electronic news gathering, event videography, government/corporate production, and electronic cinematography. They offer customers superb image quality combined with an extensive set of performance and ergonomic enhancements.
The new camcorders are engineered around three 2/3-inch PowerHAD ™ EX CCD imaging sensors. The DSR-450WS is a wide-screen model that can capture images in 60i at 24PsF, 25PsF (PAL model only) and 30PsF. The DSR-400 features a 4:3 version of the Power HAD EX CCD.
This type of high-performance CCD delivers a significant improvement in imaging, including higher dynamic range, sensitivity and a -65 dB signal-to-noise ratio with a -140 dB of vertical smear—characteristics traditionally found in higher-end products.
The new camcorders' enhanced imaging performance is complemented by a large fold-out 2.5-inch (viewable area, measured diagonally) color LCD monitor screen that allows users to frame and assess shots with greater precision, even in full sunlight.
Refined user ergonomics include an adjustable shoulder pad, precise battery life indicator and menu assignable switches on the side and handle for quick access to frequently used functions. Camera set-ups can also be stored to removable Memory Stick ® media for quick, convenient set-up and recall of key parameters.
"Our intention is to provide the widest range of DVCAM camcorder options," said Bob Ott, vice president of professional video products, Sony Electronics' Broadcast and Production Systems Division. "There is still a large base of standard definition customers who need flexible, reliable, high-quality acquisition options for a variety of shooting applications. We will continue to support these SD infrastructures with product developments."
The camcorders are capable of recording in DVCAM and DV formats, on small or large cassettes with i.LINK ® (DV) IEEE-1394 digital interface connectivity. Up to 4 1/2 hours of images can be recorded on a single full-size cassette in DV mode or 3 hours when recording in the highly reliable DVCAM mode.
The DSR-450WS model features a slow shutter feature for extreme low-light shooting.
As with all Sony formats, the DVCAM line of professional hardware is complemented by professional recording media, co-engineered and designed to work together as a total system for optimum performance. Sony's line of professional DVCAM tape is designed to reduce errors and drop-out rates significantly, and the new DigitalMaster series, Sony's highest-grade 6mm tape, uses Sony's AME II Technology and its unique dual-active magnetic layers. The new AME II manufacturing process employs Hyper Evaticle IV magnetic grains, improved lubricants, and a refined Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) layer. DigitalMaster exhibits greater packing density of magnetic grains, higher retentivity, higher output and lower noise. The result is a more robust tape with fewer dropouts and errors.
The DSR-400 is planned to be available in March, at a suggested list price of $10,800. The DSR-400K model with a Fujinon 17X high-quality professional lens will also be available in March at a suggested list price of $12,700. The DSR-450WS will be available this spring at a suggested list price of about $18,000.
Editor's Note: For more detailed product information, your readers can visit www.sony.com/professional. To find the nearest Sony authorized dealer or service location, readers can call 1-800-686-SONY. For additional press information and digital images, please visit Sony Electronics' news and information web site at www.sony.com/news.
