Sony DCR-SR80 Camcorder Review

by John Neely
Published on Nov 2, 2006 7:00 AM

 
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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Compression (5.5)
The Sony DCR-SR80 records video to MPEG-2 format, and provides three quality settings: HQ, SP, and LP. These settings correspond to data rate, with higher data rates producing better quality video. HQ records at a maximum data rate of 9Mbps, SP at 6Mbps, and LP at 3Mbps. The compression engine employs a variable bit rate (VBR) encoding method, meaning that the SR80 modifies the bit rate based on the complexity of the recorded image. A simple, static shot of a landscape can be captured at a lower average bit rate than a soccer match shot from the sidelines. It's a smart resource-saver and common to most HDD camcorders.
 
When it comes to working with footage shot with the DCR-SR80, your video files will appear as .MPG files, making them instantly recognizable to a wide range of post-production applications. The JVC GR-MG77 saves its MPEG2 video as .MOD files which many applications have trouble reading. Manually changing .MOD file extensions to .MPG allows the video to play, but the audio tracks may no longer be available. It’s a small difference, but it makes the SR80 easier to use, especially for novice videographers.
 
Media (4.0)
A non-removable 60GB HDD (hard disk drive) enclosed by the right side of the camcorder stores video and still files on the DCR-SR80. Sony has incorporated a few safety mechanisms designed to prevent damage to the HDD and data corruption. The drop sensor function that detects what Sony euphemistically refers to as a “non-gravity condition” and pauses recording. The HDD is also protected by physical shock absorbers. Even with these protections in place, potential buyers should be aware that owning an HDD camcorder presents risks not present in camcorders that employ removable media since there is the potential for loss of a full 60GB of data if the camcorder is seriously damaged. In addition, the user manual for the SR80 warns that the camcorder should not be turned on at elevations above 3000 meters (9800 feet) because the HDD could be damaged. For anyone who works or recreates above 3000 meters – and virtually every ski resort in Colorado peaks out above 3000 meters – this is a major drawback.
 
At its highest quality setting, HQ mode, the HDD holds 880 minutes (14.7 hours) of video; in SP mode, 1300 minutes (21.7 hours); and in LP mode, 2510 minutes (41.8 hours).
 
Editing (4.0)
The DCR-SR80 ships with Sony’s Image Mixer for HDD Camcorder software, a basic editing program designed the company’s HDD camcorders. MPEG2 video files can be edited using a number of third party NLEs (non-linear editors) such as Ulead’s VideoStudio 7, or converted to a format editable by professional applications like Apple Final Cut Pro or Avid Xpress Pro. The fact that MPEG2 footage must be converted for higher-end NLEs is due to the fact that the format is considered a consumer rather than a professional format. Compared to DV, MPEG2 has a relatively low data rate (9Mbps vs. 25Mbps) and generally produces lower quality video.


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