Sony Handycam HDR-CX500V Camcorder Reviewby Jeremy StamasPublished on Oct 30, 2009 3:00 AM |
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| Introduction | ||||
The HDR-CX500V (MSRP $1099) from Sony is a high-end HD camcorder that records to 32GB of internal memory or Memory Stick cards. The camcorder did quite well in our testing, and its compact design is certainly striking, but Sony missed the target with its re-designed control wheel and updated menu system—not to mention leaving out several features that are commonly found on high-end models.If you want even more internal memory, Sony sells an HDR-CX520V that contains 64GB of internal memory for $1299. Other than memory, it has the same internal specs as the HDR-CX500V. |
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| (Page 1 of 17) | Product Tour | |
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| Section | The Good | The Bad |
| Product Tour | Large sensor; automatic lens cover | Boxy design makes for hard edges and uncomfortable handling. |
| Color & Noise Performance | Good noise levels and color saturation | Color accuracy was worse than most high-end models. |
| Motion & Sharpness Performance | Motion looked good and had low amounts of artifacting. | No 24p or 30p record mode; sharpness wasn't as good as we expected |
| Low Light Performance | Color and noise performances in low light were solid. | Low light sensitivity could have been a little better. |
| Compression & Media | HD and SD recording options; 32GB of internal flash memory | Uses Sony's proprietary Memory Stick format for recording to memory cards. |
| Manual Controls | Spot Focus/Meter work well with touchscreen; good auto controls | Adjustment dial is too small and is placed poorly; no manual shutter speed or aperture controls |
| Still Features | Good color accuracy in still photos; built-in flash has lots of settings | No continuous shooting or bracketing mode |
| Handling & Use | 3-inch LCD is larger than average; excellent optical image stabilization | Menu navigation can be tricky; adjustment dial isn't great |
| Playback & Connectivity | Highlight Playback can be fun to use; port covers are strong and sturdy | No external mic or headphone jack; accessory shoe fits Sony-proprietary accessories only |
| Audio & Other Features | GPS and Smooth Slow Record can be useful. | Audio levels cannot be adjusted manually. |
| Sony HDR-CX500V Comparisons | ||
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| Panasonic HDC-TM300 | Canon HF S11 | JVC GZ-HM400 |
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The HDR-CX500V (MSRP $1099) from Sony is a high-end HD camcorder that records to 32GB of internal memory or Memory Stick cards. The camcorder did quite well in our testing, and its compact design is certainly striking, but Sony missed the target with its re-designed control wheel and updated menu system—not to mention leaving out several features that are commonly found on high-end models.