Sony DCR-HC21 Camcorder Review

 Audio (1.0)
The DCR-HC21 can record both 12 bit and 16 bit audio to tape. It can also support audio dubbing of 12 bit audio to merge with the original audio and video recorded at an earlier time. Unfortunately, the DCR-HC21 doesn’t have a microphone port, so you’ll have to rely on the built-in microphone and its own automatic levels too, as the DCR-HC21 doesn’t offer manual adjustment over audio levels. The camcorder doesn't have a headphone jack either, so really the only way you will be able to use an external microphone with the DCR-HC21 is through the accessory shoe. Add to the fact that Sony's introduced a new form of the shoe that is not compatible with any third party accessories, and the audio situation on the DCR-HC21 is horrible.

VCR Mode (6.0)
There is only one playback mode available on the DCR-HC21. Aptly called the Play/Edit mode, this feature allows for playback of MiniDV tape using the camcorder’s touch screen menu. Small ‘virtual’ buttons appear along the bottom of the LCD screen, including buttons for Stop, Rewind, Play/Pause, and Fast Forward. The menu system features an end search function, data display available, recording from a VCR options, audio dubbing controls—to record 12 bit audio to merge with 12 bit original sound and video. Various speed playback is available for playback at two times fast, slow motion, and frame by frame. Burning to DVD and Video CD options are available, though you might need a Sony computer to make it not a complete hassle.

Ports (6.0)
The Sony DCR-HC21 features many ports built right into the camcorder, which is nice for portability. It doesn’t, however, include the external docking stations that the DCR-HC32 (Review, Specs, $490.7) (Review, Specs, $490.7) and the DCR-HC42 (Review, Specs, $399.95) ship with. This may make the connecting/editing/computer-communicating process a bit tedious. Additionally, the DCR-HC21 (or the DCR-HC32 and the DCR-HC42) lacks a microphone jack, and its included accessory shoe cold.