Sony DCR-HC21 Camcorder Review

by Matt Culler
Published on Feb 18, 2005 10:00 AM

Intro Performance
Format
 Tour
Auto/Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use Audio/Playback/Connectivity
Other Features Comparisons/Conclusion
   


Compression (8.0)
The Sony DCR-HC21 (Review, Specs, $329) uses standard DV compression to MiniDV tape; MiniDV compression is certainly the standard of video quality against which all other compression formats are judged.

Media (8.0)
The Sony DCR-HC21 has the ability to record video to 6.35mm MiniDV tape in both SP and LP modes. Sixty minutes can be recorded in SP mode with 90 minutes available in LP mode. Still images can be captured to this same tape, taking up seven seconds of tape each at intervals of up to ten seconds.

 Editing (8.0)
Video footage recorded to MiniDV tape can be edited very easily using any of the many editing software suites, most notably Avid and Final Cut Pro, though many manufactures include rudimentary editing software with their products. The DCR-HC21 ships with Sony’s Picture Package software, which enables rudimentary editing, copying, and burning to various CD formats. If you have a Sony VAIO computer, “Click to DVD” software can be used to create DVDs.



<< Performance | Tour >>