Sony HDR-HC5 Camcorder Review

by David Kender
Published on Nov 28, 2007 8:52 AM

 
Intro Performance
Format Auto / Manual Controls
Still Features Handling and Use
Audio / Playback / Connectivity
 Other Features
Comparisons / Conclusion Photo Gallery
Specs and Ratings


Audio (4.0)
When shooting in HD, the HDR-HC5 records 16 bit MPEG-2 stereo sound at a transfer rate of 384 kbps. In standard definition DV mode, the HDR-HC5 is capable of recording uncompressed PCM stereo sound at 16 or 12 bits. PCM is superior to MPEG-2 sound because it is less compressed, resulting in crisp audio with minimal distortion. On the downside, PCM audio is a space eater. MPEG-2 audio might not be the best quality available, but you’ll salvage hard drive space during capture. Thus, HDV and DV audio conundrum surges on. High definition video means a sacrifice in audio quality, and high quality audio means a sacrifice in video quality. Just what’s a shooter to do?

Well, here’s an option. The HDR-HC5 includes an Active Interface Shoe, which is compatible with a handful of external Sony microphones. If you’re planning on shooting anything beyond the school play, invest in a mini boom mic. Unfortunately, the HDR-HC5 does not include a Mic jack, which narrows down the scope of compatible external microphones. The HDR-HC5 does not include a Headphone jack either. For a camcorder with the same price tag as the venerable Canon HV20, both connections should have been included.

Playback (5.5)
Remember the world of Rewind and Fast forward? Playing back footage on the HDR-HC5 is just like any MiniDV or tape-based camcorder. In order to reach the playback screen, shift the Mode Dial until a blue screen appears. A row of controls lines the bottom of the screen: Memory, Rewind, Play/Pause, Fast Forward, and P-Menu. The Guide function is also available here. In Playback mode, the P-Menu contains the following options:

Playback P-Menu
Memory Set Still Set, All Erase, Format, File Number, New Folder, Record Folder, Playback Folder
Picture Applications Slideshow, Digital Effects, Picture Effects, PictBridge Print, USB Select
Edit/Play Variable Speed Playback, Record Control, End Search
Standard Set VCR HDV/DV, DV Set, Volume, LCD/VF Set, Component, i.LINK Conversion, TV Type, Display Guide, Status Check, Guideframe, Remaining, Remote Control, Beep, Display Output, Menu Rotate, Auto Shutoff, Calibration
Time/Language  

 

 

The menu in playback mode

  

The touch screen control in playback mode

In order to playback footage on an external display, the HDR-HC5 is equipped with AV, Component, and HDMI cables in order to accommodate high definition or standard definition televisions. If you want to edit, you’ll have to capture via the supplied i.Link (FireWire) cable. HDV camcorders do not offer the convenience of HDD, DVD, or flash-based camcorders, though the quality of the footage is worth all the rewinding, fast-forwarding and capturing.

Connectivity (7.0)
The HDR-HC5 is well equipped with ports, and most of them located on the left side of the camcorder. Within the LCD cavity you’ll find the USB terminal and Memory Stick PRO Duo slot. The USB terminal is sheltered by a tiny sliding door while the Memory Stick PRO Duo slot is guarded by a narrow, spring loaded hatch. Very crafty, Sony.

Just below the LCD cavity, you’ll find a long, rectangular plastic door that swings out to reveal the LANC, i.Link (FireWire), Component-Out, and A/V-Out terminals. These ports are concealed well, and the plastic door features a raised finger groove for easy access. On the downside, the HDR-HC5 does not include a Mic or Headphone jack, which should come standard on a $1000 camcorder.

 

The proprietary-fit Sony hot accessory shoe

     

The HDMI and DC-power ports

The HDR-HC5’s HDMI terminal and DC in jack are located in back, shrouded by two rugged plastic slabs. On top of the camcorder, you’ll find the Active Accessory Shoe, housed by a hard plastic shield. Keep in mind that Sony’s hot shoes are only compatible with Sony brand microphones, lights, and accessories. The HDR-HC5 is a solid piece of machinery, and the quality of its ports and their respective enclosures is top notch.


The ports on the lower-left side:
LANC, DV/HDV (FireWire), Component-out, and AV-out

 

 

 



<< Handling and Use | Other Features >>