Sony To Continue Four 2008 Models Into the New Year: HDR-CX12, HDR-TG1, HDR-HC9, DCR-HC52

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Sony High Definition Camcorders

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Sony "Webbie HD" MP4 Camcorders

Sony 2008 Camcorders Returning for 2009

Sony HDR-TG1

January 7, 2009 – Today at CES, Sony announced that it will be carrying over four of its 2008 camcorders for another year. Three high definition camcorders (the HDR-CX12, HDR-TG1, and HDR-HC9) and one standard definition camcorder (the DCR-HC52 (Specs, $229.00)) will continue to be sold through 2009.

The HDR-CX12 and HDR-TG1 were two popular models for Sony in 2008, both combining the convenience of solid state memory with the performance of high definition video. These two MemoryStick camcorders will be joined in 2009 by the HDR-CX100, a new high definition model with embedded flash memory.

The other two models being carried over into the new year are two of Sony's MiniDV camcorders. The HDR-HC9 (high definition) and DCR-HC52 (standard definition) will be the only MiniDV camcorders from Sony in 2009. The shrinking market for tape-based camcorders likely motivated the company's decisions to discontinue all but two models and to carry over the 2008 camcorders rather than update to new products.

MiniDV is not the only line to see cuts from Sony. The number of standard definition DVD camcorders is being reduced, while high definition DVD models are being cut altogether. Meanwhile, Sony is shifting its focus to high definition HDD and solid state camcorders, as well as its new lineup of entry level YouTube camcorders: the "Webbie HD" series.