Sony Handycam HDR-UX20 Camcorder Reviewby Michael PerlmanPublished on May 5, 2008 8:33 AM |
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What’s in the Box?
The Sony HDR-UX20 (Review, Specs, Recent News, $0.00) ships with the following items:
- AC Adapter
- Power Cord
- Component Cable
- A/V Cable
- USB Cable
- Wireless Remote Commander
- NP-FH60 Rechargeable Battery Pack
- CD-ROM: Handycam Application Software, Picture Motion Browser
- Operating Guide
The HDR-UX20 does not ship with mini DVDs, or a Memory Stick, so add those to the list. Also, Sony offers a higher capacity battery—the NP-FH70. One of those would be a wise investment.
Other Features (5.5)
Smooth Slow Record - In the past, this feature was primarily geared toward golfers who wanted a three second slow-mo clip of their swing. Sony’s Smooth Slow Record has now evolved to 12 seconds of color video in true, 240fps slow motion, which is thinking outside of the back nine. Well done.
Super NightShot - Paris Hilton’s favorite shooting mode functions by emitting an invisible beam of infrared light in order to illuminate subjects in extremely dark places. The Super NightShot light adds an extra boost to the dimly lit action.
Dual Record - In Movie mode, Dual Record allows you to capture a still image to Internal Flash or Memory Stick PRO Duo at 3MP or 2.2MP. The Flash is disabled in Dual Record mode.
Digital Effect - The HDR-UX20’s digital image effects consist of Old Movie, which just slows the shutter speed and throws a sepia tone on.
Battery Info - You can check the remaining juice left in the HDR-UX20’s NP-FH60 battery pack when the camcorder is powered off by pressing the Battery/Display button. A multi-colored chart will appear displaying the remaining percentage of battery life, in addition to the remaining LCD and viewfinder recording times.
Backlight Compensation (BLC) - In order to brighten the exposure of a subject who is underexposed in the center of the shot, Backlight Compensation boosts the overall exposure of the image.
Picture Effects - If you can’t wait until post production, Sony offers Sepia, Black and White, and Pastel Picture Effects.
Faders - Here’s another in-camera post production shortcut. Fade out to black for drama and fade into white for a dream sequence.

