Sony Releases HDV Playback Deck

July 26, 2007- Sony has announced the “World’s First HD Video Walkman” in Europe, a portable HD video playback deck designed for remote shooting environments. At last, videographers that utilize the HDV format will be able to monitor their footage in the field or back at the hotel. The GV-HD700E HD Walkman supports HDV 1080i and DV (SP/LP) playback, and can record directly to an HDV or DV tape from an external source for archiving and backing up footage.  

The GV-HD700E features a 7” widescreen LCD monitor with a resolution of 1152K (800 x 480). The LCD panel is hinged and can fold down for transport. The new HD Walkman utilizes an All-scan function that displays 100% of the recorded shot within the viewing pane without the cropping found on most camcorder LCDs. Shooters also have the ability to customize up to six LCD setups via brightness, color level, contrast, sharpness, color, and phase.

The GV-HD700E is compatible with footage recorded in xvYYC color, a format Sony has adapted and rebranded as the x.v.Color system. Sony’s x.v.Color is only available on an select few camcorders and TVs, including the HDR-HC7 (Review, Specs, Recent News, $1128.56) and Bravia HDTV line.

Sony’s new HD Walkman is equipped with an array of interfaces, including HDMI, i.LINK, USB, and an AV Multi-connector featuring video, audio, and S-Video outputs. The GV-HD700E is also equipped with a Memory Stick slot, headphone jack, stereo speaker, DC power in, and InfoLITHIUM L/M series battery support.

Currently, the GV-HD700E is expecting a September release date in Europe only. There is no disclosed price as of yet.