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.

Update: The Panasonic HDC-TM300 was ultimately selected as our 2009 Camcorder of the Year. To see why we selected it and read about our other awards, check out the 2009 CamcorderInfo.com Select Awards.