Sony DCR-SR42

Comparison
Sony DCR-SR40
Last year’s DCR-SR40 ($599 MSRP) features the same imager, manual controls, limited connectivity, and classic Sony tricks like Easy mode and Super NightShot Plus. Therefore, video performance is essentially the same between both camcorders. You’ll also have to deal with that vexing 2.5-inch LCD screen that Sony neglected to upgrade for 2007. There are two significant improvements on this year’s DCR-SR42: revamped handling and an absurd 40x optical zoom. The DCR-SR42 has morphed from its predecessor’s brick-shaped, Everio-like body into a smooth, ergonomic dream. The 40x optical zoom is twice the DCR-SR40’s, and will delight stalkers and adventurers alike. For $549, we’d opt for the DCR-SR40, but check out the next camcorders before you hit up the ATM next to Best Buy.

Sony DCR-SR62
For an extra $50, the DCR-SR62 ($599 MSRP) offers a higher 1,070,000 pixel count, larger 2.7-inch LCD screen, and a hot accessory shoe. We can tell you right now that the DCR-SR62 is a better deal. Although we haven’t gotten a chance to test this camcorder, the DCR-SR62 most likely offers a sharper image due to its pixel increase. The 2.7-inch LCD screen softens the blow a bit when it comes to manual controls, and the DCR-SR62 is capable of supporting an external microphone or video light, thanks to its Active Interface Shoe. On the down side, you still have to deal with highly limited connectivity and no onboard USB terminal. The best part is that the DCR-SR62 flaunts the DCR-SR42’s old price tag. For $600, it’s between the DCR-SR62 and the next comparison.

JVC GZ-MG155
The GZ-MG155 ($599.95 MSRP) won Best Low-End HDD/Flash Memory in this year’s Camcorderinfo Selects for its slightly enhanced video quality, manual controls, and connectivity options. At this price point, the GZ-MG155 is the only HDD camcorder to pack 1,070,000 pixels in its 1/6-inch chip, while the DCR-SR42 and Panasonic SDR-H20 remain capped at 680,000. The GZ-MG155 also touts a joystick, making manual adjustment a lot more fun than punching tiny buttons on a 2.5-inch LCD screen. In addition, the GZ-MG155’s docking station includes A-Video and FireWire connections, as well as an onboard USB terminal. The DCR-SR42 can only answer with its massive 40x optical zoom and point-and-shooter-beloved Easy mode. Advanced shooters will want to look into the GZ-MG155, while loyal Sony fans and beginners will most likely gravitate toward the DCR-SR42.

Panasonic SDR-H20
Panasonic made strides with ts top-of-the-line standard definition SDR-H200, and the SDR-H20 ($599.95 MSRP) is modeled after portions of its greatness. The SDR-H20 features OIS, an excellent suite of manual controls, and stellar handling. Our only gripes are centered around the SDR-H20’s basic 1/6-inch, 680,000 imager, lack of an accessory shoe, and battery chamber port placement. On the bright side, the SDR-H20 features a rear-mounted joystick for one-handed camcorder operation. It’s a close race here. Those who wish to grow as a shooter will definitely want to check out the SDR-H20, while those who don't want to leave the cushy confines of Easy mode will want to stick with the DCR-SR42.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
The DCR-SR42 has point-and-shooter written all over it. With preposterously long recording times, high portability factor, and classic Sony ease of use, the DCR-SR42 proves itself the best companion a trip to Disney can have.

Budget Consumers
The DCR-SR42 is the cheapest HDD camcorder in Sony’s fleet, and it’s a great overall package for beginners. Those who want more bang for the buck will want to check out the JVC GZ-MG155.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid
VGA (640 x 480) stills are suitable for … the Internet, and that’s about it. You can record stills to either the 30GB HDD or a Memory Stick PRO Duo card, but any cheap digital still camera will offer worlds more in quality and options.

Gadget Freaks
The DCR-SR42 is boring. Sorry to be so frank.

Manual Control Freaks
You get Exposure, Focus, and White Balance, but that’s it. The GZ-MG155 offers Shutter Priority, among additional manual control perks. Those looking to grow as a shooter will feel stunted with the DCR-SR42.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
Not in any pro’s wildest dreams would they opt for an entry-level HDD camcorder as their primary or secondary piece of machinery. Perhaps as a tertiary choice for scenes with explosions?

Conclusion
The Sony DCR-SR42 is a pretty solid choice for light, occasional shooting for those on a budget. We promise you the video performance will not impress anyone. This is an entry-level camcorder, and delivers exactly as expected. If you’re wondering why it costs twice as much as Sony’s low-end MiniDV, it’s not image quality. In fact, if you take any two MiniDV and DVD/HDD camcorders with the same imaging system inside, MiniDV will always win – it uses a higher quality codec. That extra cash is going into increased portability, larger recording capacity, and, well … it’s a new and shiny technology; tape is old-school.