Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD2 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by John Neely
Published on Jan 17, 2007 2:00 PM

 
Intro Performance
Format Tour
Auto / Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use Audio / Playback / Connectivity
Other Features
Comparisons / Conclusion
Specs/Ratings
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Conclusion
The Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD2 is an unusual camcorder that doesn’t compare easily to anything else on the consumer market.  At an MSRP of $699, it is the cheapest HD-capable camcorder available.  It records a unique flavor of MPEG-4 video, at bit rates equivalent to the standard-definition MPEG-2 video seen on many DVD, HDD and flash camcorders.  It produces large and very good looking stills – and above all, it’s a truly pocket-sized camcorder that will fit in many women’s jeans pockets – an achievement that no other cam we’ve reviewed matches.  Unfortunately, if last year’s tests of the HD1 are an indicator of the HD2’s video performance, this will be a similarly compromised product.  Last year, we found the video performance and resolution to be disappointing.  Colors were too saturated, and in-camera sharpening resulted in muddy edges.  Resolution at the 720p SHQ setting was slightly better than the best standard-definition camcorders of 2006 but a far cry from every 1080i cam we reviewed.

With any highly specialized camcorder, compromise is inevitable.  The small body has forced Sanyo to miniaturize controls and the screen measures only 2.2” diagonally.  On the plus side, the HD2 does feature a mic input and a wide array of manual image control settings that function in both video and still modes.  Though expensive, SD/SDHC flash memory cards are convenient, expandable, and allow for in-camera editing and non-linear playback options. The VPC-HD2 is a tech toy more than a high-performing camcorder. Tech toys, of course, have a warm place in many consumer's hearts, but you wouldn't want all of your precious memories tied to them. The right tools for the right job - that's what you should keep in mind when shopping for a camcorder. Skaters uploading their tumbles and spills right to the web may find this appropriate, if not ideal. This is definitely a YouTube-friendly cam. More general users, beware.







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