New Sony AVCHD Burner Only Works with Select Camcorders

by David Kender
Published on May 29, 2007 9:26 AM

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May 29, 2007 – Today in Japan Sony unveiled the VRD-MC5, a self-contained DVD burner that connects with select Sony AVCHD camcorders. The latest update in their DVDirect line, this is the first to support the exploding format. To date, Sony has released seven AVCHD camcorders. Prior to the VRD-MC5, a computer and conversion software was required to move AVCHD footage onto 12cm DVDs intended for playback on most home entertainment systems.

The list of compatible Sony AVCHD camcorders is brief, according to the press release, and states at least one model that was not released in the US. Compliant models include the HDR-SR7, HDR-SR8, and HDR-CX7. Models specifically stated as non-compatible include the HDR-UX5 and HDR-UX7. There is no mention of the HDR-SR1, HDR-SR5, and HDR-UX1. A casual analysis of this list indicates that most models recording to HDD and flash memory will work (including, conceivably, the SR1 and SR5), while those recording to DVD will not (eliminating the UX1).

The VRD-MC5 offers USB, RCA analog, S-video, and Firewire inputs, though only the USB port can be used for AVCHD camcorders. The burner will also work with standard definition camcorders of any brand recording to most popular media – DVD, HDD, DV, and Digital8, connecting via RCA or Firewire. However, the burner will not accept HDV input streams. Also, the VRD-MC5 does not include any video outputs, which means that the unit cannot double as a home DVD player.

Playing back the footage may present problems for some users. Though the VRD-MC5 offers convenient transference to a full-size disc, video remains in the AVCHD format. The playback device, therefore, must be AVCHD-compatible. The list of suitable devices is short, including the PlayStation 3 and a handful of DVD players.

Screen shots from the VRD-MC5

The VRD-MC5’s interface appears simple. A 2.5” LCD sits atop the unit, along with navigation controls and a large burn button. Clips can be sorted in a preferred order, then burned on DVD+R/-R/+RW/-RW/+R DL discs.

The VRD-MC5 also functions as a still photo to DVD burner, with card slots for MemoryStick Duo/PRO Duo, SD/SDHC, xD, and compact flash.

No US release of the VRD-MC5 has been announced. The unit will be available in Japan starting August 10. A retail price has not been set.