CamInfo Selects 2006

2006 has been a very interesting year in the camcorder industry. It started out simple, with industry developments concentrating on lowering prices. While we knew all year that we were close to the HD revolution, we certainly didn't expect it to come on as strong as it did this summer. With announcements from every major manufacturer of either new or impending HD products, the summer saw a dramatic change that made shopping for a camcorder much more interesting, and more difficult. Now, as we approach the busy holiday season, we've gone over all the test results from the past year, analyzed the differences between each model, and came up with our list of the best camcorders of 2006. There are certainly some surprises this year!

Over $4000

The Canon XL H1 (HDV and DV formats), technically released in November 2005, was too late for consideration in the 2005 CCI Selects. But we would be pitifully remiss to ignore this powerhouse camcorder another year. The XL H1 is the first HD camcorder in the celebrated XL line, and it benefits greatly from that pedigree. The interchangeable lens system is perhaps the biggest boon for professional applications, and the XL H1 opens immediate access to the entire line of existing XL lenses, as well as a gradually developing lineup of HD-specific XL lenses.

The Canon XL H1 boasts three 16:9 1/3" CCDs and provides a myriad of image quality adjustments with an extensive array of manual controls. The body, while heavier than other under $10,000 HDV models, provides plenty of room for external buttons and dials. The camcorder provides 1080/60i, 24F and 30F frame rates, with multiple pull-down options, as well as SD DV recording in the same frame rates. Although the 24F and 30F modes are not true progressive video, they are a serviceable alternative which is about the same.

The competition is always tough in this category, and strong arguments can be made for all of the camcorders priced over $4000.  The JVC GY-HD110 also has interchangeable lenses and has performance that nearly matched the XL H1 in a recent prosumer shootout.  With an MSRP starting at several thousand dollars less than the Canon and true 24P, it may be the best bargain of the lot. Sony's recently released HVR-V1U is another strong contender, with an impressive array of gamma controls aided by the ClearVID CMOS sensor and Enhanced Image Processor chip - and it can be had for half of the XL H1's price. Sony's unveiled but unreleased V1U looks to be a fantastic prospect, but lacks the interchangeable lenses and professional jack pack of the Canon. With a relatively astronomical price, the XL H1 nonetheless packs in more features and better performance than any other camcorder in this category, and there is no denying it comes out victorious in this fight.

Under $4000
Canon XH A1
Full Review

The Under $4000 category is a cut-throat niche, filled with a number of excellent camcorders that serve up a healthy array of features and near-professional performance. Likewise, buyers looking for serious camcorders that won't break their bank are a demanding crowd. They want the highest possible image quality their budget will allow, and manual controls on par with camcorders twice and thrice the price. Impossible?  We think not.

As a complete package, the Canon XH A1 (HDV and DV formats) fits the bill better than any camcorder in its class. It has exactly the same imaging system of its big sibling, the Canon XL H1, minus the interchangeable lens - at half the cost of the XL H1.  Minus the professional jack pack (HD/SD-SDI and Genlock), it's identical to the XH G1, which is priced $2000 higher.  XLR inputs are among the qualities that set this camcorder ahead of its peers, and an array of manual controls approaching the XL H1 adds to the buzz surrounding this soon-to-be-released dynamo.

To be fair, the XL A1 has not yet hit the streets, but neither has its strongest competition, the Sony HDR-FX7. We're going on specs here, as well as lengthy calls with each manufacturer, visits to technology conventions to see the camcorders up close and personal, and heaps of research. After testing the XL H1, we are convinced that if the XH A1 produces the same video performance, this will be one hell of a camcorder for low budget indie filmmakers and documentarians.

Honorable Mention: Sony HDR-FX7
Full Review

This was a very close race with the Canon XH A1, with a few differentiating factors that some users may well disregard. If so, they probably won't be disappointed, because this is a great camcorder in its own right.

The Sony HDR-FX7 (HDV and DV formats) also has a great array of manual controls, a small user-friendly profile, impressive video performance, and potentially XL A1-topping gamma control thanks to its ClearVID CMOS sensor. But a lot of the ClearVID's strength lies in its future potential for image control rather than features that are available right now. The HDR-FX7 also lacks XLR inputs, which requires users to settle for the mini mic input, or purchase an XLR-to-mini converter like the Beachtek units that are popular with DCR-VX2100 users.  Adding the Beachtek brings the price of the HDR-FX7 inline with the Canon XH A1 and tightens the race - but until Sony makes balanced audio inputs standard on the FX7, we'll tip our hats to Canon for delivering a complete package.

Under $1500
Sony HDR-SR1
Full Review

If you find yourself shopping for a camcorder in this price point, you're almost certainly in the market for high definition. In that category, there are four contenders: Canon has the HV10 and Sony is three-strong with the HDR-HC3, HDR-UX1, and HDR-SR1. All three use the 1/3" ClearVID CMOS sensor. It's Sony's final offering, the SR1 (AVCHD/HDD format), that comes out the strongest, however. Though we have serious reservations for the short-term about editing AVCHD video, we're certain that solutions are on their way.

Sony managed once again to pack outstanding HD video in a simple to operate device, all for a price unthinkable only a few years ago. The video quality may be slightly less stellar than the HDR-HC3's HDV video, but the manual controls and redesigned menu system trump the earlier model. The SR1's 30GB of hard disk drive (HDD) simplify your shooting with no tapes or DVDs to lug around (each in their highest quality, the SR1's 30GB capacity equates to 16 single-layer DVDs for the UX1). Those concerned with archiving video can easily back-up footage to a disc or your computer's hard drive. The camcorder also offers a slightly higher data rate than the UX1, though we never saw a noticeable increase in video quality. Any way you cut it, the SR1 is likely to please.

Honorable Mention: Canon HV10
Full Review

The Canon HV10 (HDV and DV formats) actually produced a better image in bright light than any of these camcorders, but could not stand up in the critical area of low light performance. The HV10 had an even better set of manual controls, with Aperture and Shutter Priority Modes. And though the tiny body made for superior portability, handling could be problematic for the less-than-slender handed. It also lacked HDMI-out, which has an increasing demand with newer HDTVs.

Nevertheless, the Canon HV10 deserves recognition as Canon's first consumer HD camcorder, with a feature set that does their legacy proud. And despite the fact that handling this model leaves much to be desired, there's no getting around the fact that it packs more performance into a smaller body than any camcorder to date.

Under $1000
Panasonic PV-GS500
Full Review

As we've seen so many times before, Panasonic knows how to dominate the upper-end of the consumer market with the best manual control suite available and offers consistently excellent video performance. Though many Panasonic fans cried foul after the 2006 MiniDV line was stripped of some standout features from years past, the accompanying price drop made up for the loss. In terms of our test bench scores, Panasonic's standing against the competition didn't change; the company still makes the only camcorders under $1000 with fully independent aperture and shutter control, plus gain control and optical image stabilization. We believe a good camcorder is one that puts the power in your hands, and the PV-GS500 (DV format) delivers the goods.

Honorable Mention: Sony DCR-HC96
Full Review

Sony's DCR-HC96 (DV format) is their top of the line standard def MiniDV, and a mighty fine offering, to boot. The big 1/3" CCD produced some beautiful video, with strong colors and video performance closely comparable to that of the 3-CCD PV-GS500.  In addition to being a strong performer, the DCR-HC96 is an elegantly designed, compact, and approachable camcorder.  The camcorder rests comfortably in your hand, and Sony's rocker-style zoom toggle's are second-to-none.  It's also an easy camcorder to operate, especially in Easy mode, and Sony's touchscreen interface is as user-friendly as an ATM machine or airport kiosk.  Although we at CCI often point out the deficiencies of touchscreens, such as fingerprints on the screen, it is an easy way to navigate a camcorder's menu. While it predictably falls short of the Panasonic in terms of manual controls, point-and-shooters won't miss them - and they represent the core of Sony's market, and Sony's DCR-HC96 offers them an excellent high-performance option.

Under $600
Panasonic PV-GS300
Full Review

The Panasonic PV-GS300 (DV format) is one of our favorite camcorders of  2006 - but our appreciation for this little dynamo is tempered by the fact that the model lost some of the features that made us love its 2005 predecessors. Some key features have been jettisoned, including analog-to-digital pass through, a terrific focus ring, a headphone jack, and an easily accessible SD card slot.

Yet there is one change that's tough to ignore: Panasonic knocked the MSRP of the PV-GS300 down by a whopping $300 bucks over last year's PV-GS250 - and that's enough of a drop to justify the cutbacks from this camcorder's feature set.  Some additional pluses in this year's model are smaller body, a widescreen LCD, display and better video performance.  All this makes the PV-GS300 a $699 camcorder to get excited about.

The PV-GS300 is also blessed with Panasonic's legendary suite of manual controls, including independent control of features like iris, gain, and shutter speed via a highly efficient (if tricky) joystick interface.  With three 1/6" CCDs, this camcorder turned in video performance that beat the competition soundly, and also boasts excellent still photo performance with a maximum resolution of 2048 x 1512.  While we mourn the passing of last year's PV-GS250 with its focus ring, microphone jack and analog to digital pass-through, the PV-GS300 is worthy of high praise by virtue of its value.

Honorable Mention: Sony DCR-DVD405
Full Review

The DCR-DVD405 (DVD format) is just below the DVD505 in Sony's 2006 DVD line and follows-up on the popular DVD403. The MSRP dropped to $900, but this excellent camcorder can now be found for as low as $600, and that's an amazing deal given that it performs at a level similar to that of its more expensive counterpart, the DCR-DVD505.  Both camcorders produce a fine image, with good color balance and low noise.  The DVD405 also performs solidly in still photo mode, with its still resolution coming in at 2MP.

The DCR-DVD405 also offers you the option of adding on some of the Sony accessories compatible with the Active Interface Shoe, including mics and video lights.  We prefer camcorders that don't take Sony's proprietary approach, with standard microphone jacks, but some options are way better than none.  Like other Sony's, the DCR-DVD405 is a camcorder that's best used as a point-and-shooter since the touch screen interface is a torturous vehicle for making manual picture adjustments.  Yet as a point-and-shoot camcorder that produces video as good as just about anything available (short of HD, of course) it's well worth a look - especially at its bargain basement prices.

Under $400
Canon Elura 100
Full Review

Canon impressed us this year by offering two amazingly good low-price camcorders, and the Elura 100 (DV format) is among our favorites of 2006.  This model sells for an MSRP of $399, equaling the Canon ZR700, but its video performance was superior, due in part to its larger 1/5" vs. 1/6" CCD.  In addition to a large imager, the Elura 100 sports a microphone input - a must for recording audio to match the quality of your video, and a feature that's rare in a sub-$400 camcorder.  Adding to its versatility are analog inputs, allowing you to add a narration track or even transfer old Hi-8 cassettes to your  computer for editing with analog to digital passthrough.

While we love this Canon, no camcorder is without its faults, such as a closed battery design that means you can't purchase a longer life battery. Fortunately, the included BP-208DG battery lasted an amazing 2 1/2 hours, longer than the expansion batteries available for many consumer camcorders! Canon has also packed a tremendous feature set into the small frame of the Elura 100, leading to some handling issues for users with large hands who may find the controls tough to operate easily.  But it's the plethora of features we adore.

All in all, the Elura 100 is an excellent low-end model that gives camcorders costing hundred of dollars more a run for their money.  In comparison to like-priced challengers, the Elura 100 trounced every challenger, either by virtue of its stellar performance, or features including impressive still photo performance. There is no getting around the fact that Canon's lower-end MiniDV camcorders are among the best values we've ever seen.  So run, don't walk, to your favorite store or website to pick up an Elura 100.

Under $300
Canon ZR500
Full Review

In 2006, there are some amazing bargains on the consumer camcorder market - especially if you look to the tried and true format that has been with us for years:  MiniDV.  While DVDs are extremely convenient, and high definition camcorders make standard definition MiniDV seem oh so late 90's, the best deals pound per pound may be in the low-end MiniDV sector.  The Canon ZR500 (DV format) is a case in point.

When compared to the sub-$300 competition, the ZR500 shines. In bright light, its video performance is better than Panasonic's PV-GS39, the Sony's DCR-HC26, and JVC's GR-D350.  In low light conditions, it was a standout showing big improvements over its predecessor, the ZR100. The ZR500 showed some other improvements as well: it's smaller, it's lighter, the zoom is more powerful, the LCD size has increased, and the menu interface is more efficient.  And on top of all this, the ZR500 includes an external microphone jack, an item you won't find on any other manufacturer's entry-level model.  

Of course there are some things the ZR500 can't do, such as take still pictures.  It is also a tape-based camcorder so you won't be able to pop your newly-shot footage into your DVD player - a convenience many casual shooters appreciate.  But if you want an inexpensive camcorder that will get the job done at  your daughter's next piano recital, look no further than the Canon ZR500.  Dollar for dollar, there may not be a better camcorder on the market.

Best High-End DVD (over $500)
Sony HDR-UX1
Full Review

Among the most contentious debates of this year's CamInfo Select awards was whether Sony's new HDR-UX1 was ready to be crowned best high-end DVD camcorder – and by extension best DVD camcorder of 2006.  At first glance, the specs of this camcorder made its victory seem assured.  It is the first consumer camcorder capable of recording high definition video to DVD disc, and its performance certainly puts it in a class of its own.  

Equipped with a 1/3 inch ClearVID CMOS sensor, the camcorder produces an astounding 2.1 MP gross for 1.43 effective MP in 16:9 mode.  It shares the big 3.5 inch LCD screen Sony’s top standard definition DVD model, the DCR-DVD505, and with its HDMI terminal, it can output uncompressed HD video to an HD TV.  The HDR-UX1 also sports a wonderful manual control ring, microphone and headphone jacks, and terrific still photo performance that outdid the HDR-HC3.  It also brings some prosumer features to the table rarely seen on a consumer cam:  guideframes and zebra patterning.

So with all this going for it, what gave us our misgivings?  For a high definition camcorder, the video performance of the HDR-UX1 was slightly disappointing.  It scored close to the HDR-HC3 in terms of performance scores, but the video was noisy for an HD camcorder.  While we can't definitively pinpoint the source of this noise in the HDR-UX1 footage we shot, it may be a product of AVCHD compression.  Even with some unsightly noise, it easily outperformed every standard definition camcorder on the market – and that, ultimately, is its true competition.  

The other drawback we found with the HDR-UX1 was what  to do with the footage after we’d shot it.  Sony provides software with the camcorder that allows basic editing of AVCHD footage, but we found that only one of our office PC's could successfully import the footage.  Our frustration has been borne out by that of other users who have had similar difficulties working with AVCHD video.  No doubt these problems will be ironed out in time, but for now you'd be advised to do your homework on the compatibility of this camcorder with your system - and if you have a Mac, forget about it, at least for now.

Now you’ve heard the good, the bad, and the ugly – all things were considered in our decision to name the HDR-UX1 best high-end DVD camcorder for 2006.  The good is very, very good.  No DVD camcorder comes close to the performance scores of the UX1, the multifunction ring is a joy to use, and the mic and headphone jacks make it a workable option for indie filmmakers on a budget.  The bad is worth noting – in comparison to HDV footage, AVCHD looks like a work in progress – but it's still better than anything a standard definition DVD camcorder can produce.  And the ugly – the problems we faced in working with the footage – simply shows the inevitable growing pains of a new format.  Numerous companies have pledged support for AVCHD, so we anticipate editing problems will be substantially addressed during the next year.  Our endorsement of the Sony’s HDR-UX1 is not without reservations, but it’s a strong enough freshman outing for us to declare it a winning product.

Honorable Mention: Panasonic VDR-D300
Full Review

Before the HDR-UX1 crashed its party, the Panasonic's VDR-D300 served as this year's benchmark for DVD camcorder performance, and even gave the year’s top MiniDV camcorders a run for their money.  This is no small achievement for a DVD camcorder for the simple reason that DVD video compression allows for a maximum bit rate of a mere 8.5 Mbps as compared to MiniDV's fixed bit rate of 25Mbps.  The VDR-D300 turned in some of the sharpest video of the year of a standard definition camcorder in any media. Even so, it was still in a tight race with the Sony DCR-DVD505, their top standard definition camcorder. Panasonic only managed to edge it out by a little.

In addition to Panasonic's usual suite of excellent manual controls that offer independent manual adjustment of settings like iris, gain, and shutter speed, the VDR-D300 adds a microphone jack, rock star still performance (2048 x 1512), and optical image stabilization. Most consumer camcorders, including the runner-up Sony DCR-DVD505 use electronic image stabilization, which reduces image quality.

But its video performance established the VDR-D300 as the penultimate DVD camcorder of 2006 – and top standard definition DVD model. We've never seen such stellar SD video recorded to a DVD, and unlike the HDR-UX1 which suffers the growing pains of AVCHD, the VDR-D300 excels with plain old standard definition MPEG-2 compression.  It wasn’t enough to beat an HD camcorder, but we were impressed by the VDR-D300, and we think you will be too.

Best Low-End DVD (Under $500)
Panasonic VDR-D200
Full Review

The Panasonic VDR-D200 is a prime example of how to make an inexpensive DVD camcorder that will satisfy performance, ease of use, and manual control expectations. It represents the best bet overall compared to the other sub-$500 offerings on the DVD market.  In terms of image quality, Panasonic's VDR-D200 does very well for itself, and it outscored competitors in both video performance and resolution.  Helping its case is Panasonic's usual array of manual image controls that offer independent control over iris, gain, and shutter speed.  Unless you’re considering its kin, the step-down VDR-D100 or step-up VDR-D300, you won't find a better suite of image controls on a low-end DVD camcorder.

To be sure, the VDR-D200 lacks certain features that some users will miss, with only a 2.5 inch, 4:3 screen, and still photo resolution of only 640 x 480 that fell short of other camcorders in its class.  The video light is also only marginally useful – as any on-camera video light is only useful for illuminating objects within a few feet of the lens.  What the VDR-D200 does bring to the table is solid video performance and good image controls in an inexpensive DVD camcorder - and for us that's enough to give it props in 2006.


Honorable Mention: Sony DCR-DVD305
Full Review

Like the VDR-D200, Sony's DCR-DVD305 is not a camcorder that dazzles with stellar performance or a myriad of features.  It's also outscored by its step-up cousin, the DCR-DVD405. As we've learned, if you want a good DVD camcorder, you've got to pay for it. Yet as with the Panasonic VDR-D200 above, we think this camcorder is a great value - and for budget shoppers, that's nothing to sneeze at.   The DCR-DVD305’s performs scores are similar to its step-down cousin, the DCR-DVD205, but also showed significant improvements over Sony’s low-end DVD crop of 2005 camcorders, with better color and resolution scores.

It also shows some advantages over our winner for best low-end DVD camcorder, including a 2.7-inch LCD and still capture at up to 1152 x 864.  Add classic-Sony ease of use, comfortable handling, and an elegant design, and you've got yourself a point-and shoot winner.  The only low-end buyers likely to find the DCR-DVD205 lacking are folks who would rather take image control into their own hands and for them, the VDR-D300 is a much better buy.  In typical Sony fashion, this model is short on manual controls, but it’s a solid and approachable camcorder that won us over.

Best Low-End HDD or Flash
Sony DCR-SR40
Full Review

For a long time, we've been looking for an entry-level HDD camcorder that delivers decent performance in an affordable package.  And while the Sony DCR-SR40 doesn't exactly get our adrenaline pumping, it does everything a basic camcorder should, and that's as sure a sign as any that the HDD camcorder sector has passed from adolescence to early adulthood.  On top of all this, it may be the most user-friendly camcorder on the consumer market.  Not only does it have the classic ease of use that sets Sony's consumer line apart from the competition, it's a camcorder that is completely self-contained.  There's no media to lose, disc or tape drive to break, and it even lacks a card slot.  As if to confirm our assertion that there's no simpler device for capturing video bigger than a cell phone, the operating guide is the shortest we've seen at a mere 35 pages.

To be fair, this camcorder lacks a lot of features that you'll find on competing models like the runner-up JVC GZ-MG77 Everio.  Like most of Sony's other consumer camcorders, manual control adjustments are made via the touch screen display - an awkward process at best that's further hindered by a relatively diminutive 2.5-inch LCD screen.  Like most entry-level models, the SR40 also lacks features like microphone and headphone jacks and an accessory shoe rendering this a camcorder that's best left in Easy mode.  Yet if you're the kind of shooter who eschews manual controls anyway, and have no intention of venturing into external mic and accessory territory, this could be the HDD camcorder for you.  With a street price below its $600 MSRP, decent video performance, a 30 GB HDD, and a practically idiot-proof design, this camcorder eptomizes the concept of beauty in simplicity.

Honorable Mention: JVC GZ-MG77
Full Review

JVC, once the sole player in the HDD realm, has lost its niche with the introduction of three mid-priced Sony models. Sure, JVC got there first, but it must be acknowledged that Sony makes camcorders with better handling and ease of use.

The JVC GZ-MG77 brings more to the table than the Sony DCR-SR40 in terms of features, but it will set you back over a $100 more.  The additions you'll find on the GZ-MG77 begin with the larger 2.7-inch LCD display, and the handy joystick.  Sony's touch screen is indeed easy to navigate, but the joystick is a much better manual control interface allowing for faster and more accurate adjustment over gain, focus and shutter speed.  The camcorder also handles well in Auto mode, though we had a slight preference for the way the DCR-DC40 was calibrated for color and exposure.

With lots of image control options, including some that are rare in consumer camcorders such as shutter speeds as slow as 1/15, the GZ-MG77 has a lot to offer.  Those manual controls even win back some ground that the camcorder loses in video performance.  While we think this is a very well-designed camcorder, its scores for video resolution and low light performance fell short of its peers.  Despite producing lackluster video, the GZ-MG77 is an inexpensive HDD camcorder that still packs in a decent suite of manual image controls and features and is a good low-end bet.  

Best High-End HDD or Flash
Sony HDR-SR1
Full Review

This is a new category. Along with Low-End HDD or Flash, these awards address a growing segment of the camcorder market. Eventually, we expect this to become a dominant category, eclipsing those with removable media. For now, HDD and flash camcorders have some maturing to do.

The best of the bunch, unquestionably, is the Sony HDR-SR1, which brings some hefty high definition firepower to the table. In terms of sheer video performance, no standard definition contender can match it.  Prior to July, we would have handed this award over to the Sony DCR-SR100, a standard def power player outfitted for outstanding video performance - the best we'd seen thus far from an HDD camcorder. The SR1 is a bulked-up SR100; it offers even better performance in standard def with an upgrade to the 1/3" ClearVID CMOS, plus HD video in the new AVCHD format, an improved menu, and great manual controls.  At the front of the camcorder is a terrific manual ring control that can be used to adjust focus, AE shift, WB shift, or exposure.  A button near the ring allows users to easily toggle between manual and auto control over the ring's manual setting. Like the HDR-UX1, the SR1 also features zebra, guideframes, a mic input, headphones, and a remote control jack - pro-level features that easily make this the most impressive HDD to date. Overall, it's comfortable to hold and well-balanced, if a bit on the bulky side.

We must state our disappointment in Sony releasing a series of camcorders with no 3rd party support in place. AVCHD has a number of licensees busy building editing solutions, but as of this date, not a single one has hit the market. If you can satisfy yourself with the software in the box for a few months, we think you'll love the SR1 as much as we did.

Honorable Mention: JVC GZ-MG505
Full Review

The JVC GZ-MG505 is a very good camcorder with a great set of manual controls and features that make it the most versatile high-end HDD camcorder on the market.  Its main drawback may be timing and price.  With a street price a little over $1200, it's the most expensive standard definition camcorder on the market. A consumer facing the choice between the standard definition MG505 and an HD camcorder for as little as $100 more... well, that's probably a losing battle for JVC. While it can't match those camcorders when it comes to video performance, the GZ-MG505 offers a pretty compelling standard definition package.  

Video performance was excellent, if a bit saturated.  Still performance was superb, also matching or surpassing the SR100, with a resolution as high as 2560 x 1920.  Manual control is the other area in which this camcorder excels. The joystick control proves an excellent navigation tool, and makes traversing the well-planned menu a breeze.  Manual controls include exposure, with aperture and shutter priority modes, white balance, and shutter speeds ranging from 1/2 to 1/4000 of a second.  When shooting at night, the ability to drop your shutter speed below 1/60 opens up options that few other consumer camcorders offer.

On top of all this, the JVC GZ-MG505 boasts a big 60 GB HDD, a microphone jack, and a cold accessory shoe.  If you're content to shoot standard definition video, and the price tag doesn't make you gasp, this is an HDD camcorder worthy of  your consideration.


Best Consumer High Definition
Sony HDR-SR1
Full Review

The fight for best consumer HD was extremely close this year, but not because there were so many stellar models. Rather, we saw the opposite: every consumer HD model had some flaw that was enough to prohibit us from an out and out recommendation.

Sony clearly dominated the field with three models, the tape-based HDR-HC3 and two models using the new AVCHD high definition format. The HDR-SR1 and HDR-UX1 are essentially identical. Both have multi-function rings, mic inputs, and headphone jacks – key features that score big with us. Deciding on a winner came down to their only material difference, the recording medium.

We’re giving the win to the HDR-SR1, which uses a 30GB internal hard disk drive (HDD) over the DVD version, the HDR-UX1. While both mediums have their weaknesses, the all-in-one-package nature of the SR1 was enough to sway us; there are no DVDs to lug around, scratch, or lose. The SR1 also has a higher maximum bit rate than the UX1, giving it a small video quality boost.

Both the winner and the Honorable Mention (below) use the new AVCHD format, a more efficient codec than HDV for capturing HD video. But this format has had problems from the outset. First, the camcorders were released before editing solution were in place. So far, nothing can read the AVCHD footage except for that comes in the box. Secondly, the compressions appears to create some noise issues in these particular models. For these reasons, we can give only conditional recommendations, and hope that 3rd party solutions are on their way soon.

Honorable Mention: Sony HDR-UX1
Full Review

As mentioned above, the HDR-UX1 is a great camcorder in its own right, but a maximum recording time of 15 minutes per single-layer disc in the highest quality (27 minutes for dual-layer discs) is enough to give pause. Stack that against 4 hours of capacity in the SR1 – approximately 16 DVDs worth of space – and you can see how we made our decision.

What, no HDV? Sony HDR-HC3 or Canon HV10 
Of course, the AVCHD format still has a ways to go before it becomes a user-friendly format with start-to-finish workflow solutions, but its efficiency over HDV is enough to foretell the eventual demise of tape-based HD recording. As for the two strongest HDV models, Sony's HDR-HC3 and Canon's HV10, both had serious shortcomings. The HDR-HC3 dropped enough of our favorite features from it’s previous incarnation as the HC1, especially the audio options, that it never stood a chance against the SR1 or UX1. The HV10, Canon's first ever consumer HDV camcorder, had critical handling problems due to its compact size, poor low light performance, and it lacked an HDMI-out. Despite a strong shift towards consumer HD in the overall market,  this was not a year for strong individual models that suited everyone's needs.


Best Ease of Use
Sony

Sony's consumer camcorder line is filled with elegantly designed, user-friendly products. Every Sony camcorder has an "Easy" button (humourously reminiscent of some recent TV ad campaigns for a certain office supply retailer) that puts the camcorder into full-auto mode with one push.  Another hallmark of Sony camcorders is the touch screen menu interface.  We are consistently critical of the downsides of such a system, including fingerprints on the LCD and the difficulty of making manual adjustments by pressing buttons on the screen that block your view of the image.  Yet touch screens are undoubtably easy to use.  Anyone who has used an ATM or airport kiosk should have no trouble understanding how to navigate and select options via Sony's touch screen.  The same can't be said of other control interfaces, such as Panasonic's joystick, which is a terrific tool, but takes time to learn.  All this assures Sony's consumer camcorder line a secure position as the ease of use leader.

Best Manual Controls
Panasonic

At the other end of the spectrum from Sony - which excels in ease of use at the expense of efficient manual control - is Panasonic.  Unlike arch-rival Sony, Panasonic has made its name by equipping its consumer camcorders with an un-paralleled array of manual image controls.  The company has also developed an incredibly efficient and effective joystick interface that allows a user to adjust iris, gain, shutter speed and more in a matter of seconds.  Attaining joystick "power-user" status does take some practice.  The icons Panasonic uses will strike many as opaque, and it's easy to make an incorrect selection.  For those who master the joystick, however, Panasonic offers the kind of image controls offered by other manufacturers only on prosumer-level camcorders.  If you like a camcorder that puts the power in your hands, Panasonic is the brand for you.

Most Innovative
Sony HDR-UX1 and Sony HDR-SR1
Full Review                 Full Review

Our world is on the cusp of a revolution.  No, I'm not talking about politics, philosophy, or clashing civilizations but something far more important to soccer moms and dads the world over: the mainstreaming of high definition video.  OK, so maybe you’re thinking the transition from SD (standard definition) to HD (high definition) video doesn't rank up there with, say, the Industrial Revolution, but it's a biggie in our corner of the universe.  For this reason, we're naming Sony's HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 the most innovative products of 2006.

In case you haven’t read their reviews, these are not perfect camcorders - but they are the first to record HD video to the user-friendly media that consumers love, DVD in the case of the UX1, and HDD in the case of the SR1. HD plus tape-less media is a potent combination that we think is poised to rock the consumer camcorder market.  The explosion in popularity of DVD and HDD camcorders over the past few years proves that for many consumers, convenience trumps video quality in their buying decisions.  In the SD video world, MiniDV camcorders generally cost less than their DVD counterparts, and boast better video performance. Yet manufacturers have been scaling back their tape-based consumer camcorder lines.  DVD and HDD cams make up for their performance shortcomings because they are easy to use, and offer the ability to search for footage randomly.

With the arrival of the HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1, consumers can now record video to DVD or HDD at HD quality for the first time.  Though SD DVD and HDD camcorders have improved tremendously in recent years, they just can’t compete with this AVCHD duo.  Both of these camcorders record AVCHD video – and AVCHD is the first format to compress HD efficiently enough to support DVD and HDD media.  By combining high definition video and DVD convenience, the HDR-UX1 and HDR-SR1 establish themselves as the first camcorders to fulfill the promise of Sony’s motto of late:  "HD For All." 


Camcorder of the Year
Canon Elura 100
Full Review

Selecting the best camcorder of the year is no easy feat, and like the Oscars, the Emmys, and the coveted People’s Choice Awards, the decision is often contentious. There are a host of camcorders out there, as any shopper knows. Some have more flash and pizzazz, but fail to perform at the critical moment. Some aspire to be more than they are, and some are just too dumbed-down for even beginning users. We take the advice of The Bard to heart, “To thine own self be true.” Be the best in your price class, be flawless in your category. Congratulations to the Canon Elura 100, the under $400 wonder.

The Camcorder of the Year award often goes to higher-end models, but not for the obvious reasons (i.e., more expensive = better). Typically there is more innovation in the high-end, often culminating in one clear winner. That was not the case this year. Instead, we saw the 10-year old technology of MIniDV finally realized in the perfect, inexpensive model.

Nor are we camcorder elitists that mindlessly proseletize techonolgy for its own sake. Innovation is a good thing, but unless it benefits the consumer at the time of purchase, we're not going to recommend it. Look around next time you're in a tourist hotspot. The majority of people don't use camcorders with buzzword technology. They're using low- and mid-end camcorders because that's what they can afford. When a value like the Elutra 100 comes along, we want people to know about it!

The Canon Elura 100 has a good deal going for it. Though the price tag is the same as the Canon ZR700, the video performance is clearly better. This is due, in part, to the slightly larger CCD. In low light performance it was less sharply divided, with the ZR700's gain proving more effective, but comparable with the Elura at very low light.

The mic input and analog inputs are a huge boon to any camcorder, and extremely rare commodities today in inexpensive models. They allow flexibility that you might not even know you need. Want to add a narration track to your footage, or use a wireless mic? What about transferring old Hi-8 cassettes to the computer? These are important considerations, and the Elura 100 will accommodate.

Normally, we would complain a great deal about the enclosed battery design. By placing the battery in the LCD cavity, Canon has curtailed your option of purchasing a larger, extra-long-life battery. However, the included BP-208DG battery lasted an incredible 2 1/2+ hours. That is the duration of some long-life batteries.

In conclusion, this is an excellent middle-of-the-road camcorder. It trumped every challenger, either by virtue of its performance, features, or value. There are some handling issues to get used to, so be sure to try this one out before you buy it. Aside from that, the Elura 100 is the unquestionable leader in its class, a claim that no other camcorder can make. Canon has certainly delivered the goods.

The Runner-Up Pack
Choosing a “mere” under-$400 MiniDV as Camcorder of the Year is sure to raise to ire of many users and manufacturers. “Surely there are models that produce better video!” you may proclaim. Yes, that’s true. “And surely there are camcorders with more manual controls and better handling!” you cry. That, too, is true. But none combine them quite so well and match the incredible value of the Canon Elura 100. Here’s a look at who came close, though.

The Sony HDR-SR1 and HDR-UX1 created quite a stir after their mid-season announcement. These feature heavy camcorders offered great manual control. They were also the premiere models to use the new AVCHD format, a derivative of the MPEG-4/H.264 codec, which promised more efficient compression than HDV coupled with the ability to leave tape behind for future-facing formats like DVD, HDD, and flash memory. But we felt Sony was premature in releasing the camcorders. Eager to capitalize on the public growing hunger for HD products, AVCHD still has no 3rd party support on the market for editing. While we’re certain that these are forthcoming, users with have no way of working with footage for the time being except for the extremely limited in-the-box software.

The Sony HDR-HC3 was also under consideration. An HDV camcorder, this format has passed through all the growing pains that AVCHD now faces. We loved its predecessor, the HDR-HC1, so much so that it was named Camcorder of the Year in 2005. But so many of its winning features were dropped this year, including the zoom/focus ring, the mic input, and the headphone jack, that we could not muster the same excitement.

In a huge leap forward in price, we also considered the Canon XH A1. While we have yet to run this camcorder through our testing gamut, this prosumer camcorder has an immense number of professional-grade features and identical imaging specs to its big sibling, the XL H1. But at $4000, this is not the camcorder for the average weekender, or even most early adopters.

The Wrap Up
2006 will be remembered as a year fraught with announcements. One huge story after another followed from the spring, then summer, and into the fall, as every major camcorder manufacturer gradually stepped into the HD arena. What’s next? We hope that the coming year brings more great camcorders, even better values, and an industry ready to make good on the promise of affordable, understandable, and comprehensive HD for the masses.