Sony DCR-SR40 Camcorder Reviewby David KenderPublished on Dec 11, 2006 11:00 AM
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Compression (5.5)
The Sony DCR-SR40 (Review, Specs, $469.79) records video using MPEG2 compression, and offers three video quality settings that correspond to different compression rates: HQ, SP, and LP. HQ records at the highest quality setting and has the highest data rate, and the lowest level of compression with a maximum bit rate of 9Mbps. SP has a maximum bit rate of 6Mbps, and LP has the lowest bit rate and highest compression, at 3Mbps. Like other camcorders using MPEG2 compression, this camcorder employs a variable bit rate (VBR) encoding method, meaning the SR40 modifies the bit rate slightly according to the complexity of the recorded image. A relatively simple static interview shot can be captured at a lower average bit rate than a scene containing lots of movement and action like a soccer game. VBR encoding will extend the recording time available to your HDD media when recording simple scenes without compromising video quality.
Footage shot with the DCR-SR40 is appended with .MPG file extensions, and the files will be compatible with many consumer post-production applications. The JVC GZ-MG37 (Review, Specs, $384.95) records MPEG2 footage video as .MOD files which many editing programs have trouble recognizing. .MOD file extensions can be manually changed to .MPG allowing the video to play, but this quick fix de-links audio tracks from the video track. There are workarounds available to Everio users, but the SR40 is easier to use out of the box, especially for novice videographers.
Media (4.0)
The DCR-SR40 uses its non-removable 30GB HDD (hard disk drive) to store both video and still images, and there is no card slot on this entry-level model. The HDD is enclosed in the right side of the body where a DVD drive or tape compartment is found on removable-media camcorders. Several safety mechanisms have been implemented on the DCR-SR40 to protect the HDD from damage, which is not surprising given the fact that you’ll be utterly reliant on the smooth functioning of the HDD.
Drop Sensor is a feature that detects what the manual refers to as “non-gravity conditions,” and instantly pauses recording to help retain the integrity of the data on the drive. The HDD is also protected by shock absorbers that should help to prevent damage from more modest bumps or vibrations. Despite the presence of these protections, buyers looking at this and other HDD camcorders should be aware that there is the potential for loss of a full 30GB of recorded data in the event of serious damage. Those risks simply aren’t as great with a DVD camcorder, since DVD data is durable enough to survive accidents like an unexpected dunking that would likely doom the SR40’s HDD.
In addition, the DCR-SR40 manual warns that the camcorder should not be used at elevations above 3000 meters (9800 feet) to prevent HDD damage. If you work or recreate above 3000 meters, this is a major drawback. And for the unlucky residents of Leadville, Colorado, (elevation 9927 feet) this camcorder isn’t even an option.
At its highest quality setting, HQ mode, the HDD holds approximately 420 minutes (7 hours) of video; in SP mode, 600 minutes (10 hours); and in LP mode, 1200 minutes (20 hours).
On the whole, HDD has a lot to offer in terms of simplicity, but leaves just as much to be desired in other ways. A single, non-removable medium means that all of your precious video could be destroyed by one bad drop. The onus to transfer that data for safety and archiving purposes is on you.
Editing (4.0)
The DCR-SR40 and its HDD siblings includes a copy of Sony’s ImageMixer for Hard Disk Drive Handycam Camcorder software, a rudimentary video editing program. This is an easy NLE (non-linear editor) to use, but it’s not a program designed for more than very basic video editing. The SR40 records video as MPEG2 files that can be edited using a number of third party NLEs (non-linear editors), including Ulead VideoStudio 7, or converted to a format compatible with higher-end NLE’s like Apple Final Cut Pro or Avid Xpress Pro. At this time, support for MPEG2 video footage among professional-level NLE’s is sparse, due in part to the fact that the flavor of MPEG2 used in consumer camcorders yields video quality below other formats considered broadcast-quality including DV and HDV. MPEG2 compression squeezes video down to a maximum data rate of 9Mbps versus 25Mbps for both the DV and HDV standards.
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