Sony HDR-HC7 First Impressions Review

by Matt Culler
Published on Jan 8, 2007 11:00 PM

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


Audio
One of the main upgrades from the HDR-HC5 to the HDR-HC7 (Review, Specs, Recent News, $1128.56) is the inclusion of a microphone input and headphone jack on the HDR-HC7. Having these options adds versatility to recording strange environments and helps justify the purchase of such a pricey camcorder. Additionally, manual control of audio levels is available in the camcorder’s touch screen menu system, so you can dampen or augment sound accordingly. The addition of a microphone input on the HDR-HC7 really makes this camcorder a viable option for indie filmmakers, or a second camcorder for those who own pro units. With the ability to customize audio, the HDR-HC7 enters a new league of camcorders.

Playback
Not much has changed since last year as far as playback goes. On the HDR-HC7, the mode dial is used to select the Play/Edit mode. Then, the touch screen menu displays a horizontal row of buttons on the bottom of the screen corresponding to standard playback buttons. You can plug the camcorder into the television using either the camcorders A/V output port or its MDMI port on the back of the camcorder.

Connectivity
The HDR-HC7 features more ports than any other comparable Sony camcorder this year. It includes a HDMI port on its back, as well as an A/V output, an i.LINK port, and a component output port. These can be used to hook your camcorder up to a HD television and playback your footage as it was meant to be seen. Additionally, the camcorder features a headphone port for monitoring your audio and that is a main upgrade from the HDR-HC5.




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