Sony DCR-DVD200 Camcorder Review

by Mark Bassett
Published on Dec 17, 2003 12:00 AM



The Sony DCR-DVD200 is a step sideways from the DCR-DVD100. The DVD-media-machine ups the still resolution quality, but negatively impacts the low-light and video quality by decreasing the effective size of the CCD from 1/4 inch on the DCR-DVD100 to 1/4.7 inch on the DCR-DVD200. With a decrease in CCD size comes an increase in price, the DCR-DVD200 has a manufactures suggested retail price of $999.99, however, the camcorder has an average price of $900 on PriceGrabber.com. The uniqueness of the DVD line from Sony, is its ability to record still images and video footage to either DVD R (permanent) or RW (rewritable) discs. These discs can be used in both computers and in DVD players designed for televisions or television monitors.

Video Performance (6.5)
 The video performance of the DCR-DVD200 drops from the abilities of the DCR-DVD100, which is sub-par compared to MiniDV camcorders in that price range. The DCR-DVD200's 1/4.7 inch 1 Mega Pixel CCD, reads 690,000 pixels of actual video resolution. In day light or in well lit shooting situations, the camcorder delivers a dynamic range that interprets the subtleties in darks and lights within the frame. The spectrum of colors is true to life with some color bleed, although the processor seems to lean toward a reddish hue. The camcorder does a good job with skin tones. Unfortunately, the camcorder produced grain when capturing solid surfaces, creating a 'speckled' look. The DCR-DVD200 has significant manual adjustment features, both external and in the LCD menu, so enhancement of the processors default image is possible. The DCR-DVD200 captures video in MPEG-2 format.

The Front (5.0)
The Sony DCR-DVD200 has the same boxy style as the DCR-DVD100 with a silver-gray color scheme. At the top of the front of the camcorder, is a Carl Zeiss lens with an F-Stop range of 1.8-2.0, and a focal distance of 3.7-37mm. The lens has a 10x optical zoom with digital enhancement capabilities that will bring the zoom to a grainy 120x. Beneath the lens is the onboard two-channel, HiFi enabled, microphone. Below the mic is a large infrared sensor that receives remote control signals, and serves as the processors light meter. At the bottom of the front of the camcorder is covered port with the SVideo in/out jack and the AV jack.

The Right Side (6.0)
The right side of the DCR-DVD200 is all DVD storage housing. The large DVD door conceals a 3 inch DVD disc. The DVD door is cool-looking, with a circle of gray surrounded by a blue mirrored band with a large 'Handycam' logo in the center. A white nylon strap covers the base of the right side, and provides a snug grip. To the left of the strap is locking dial for changing between playback, video, and still mode. Above that dial, is a black raised zoom toggle switch. The zoom control has good resistance for accurate manipulation of telephoto to widescreen, or visa versa. To the left of the zoom control, is the electronic shutter for taking still photos. Like the DCR-DVD100 users can not snap stills in video mode.

The Back (6.5)
On the top of the back of the DCR-DVD100, is a color viewfinder that adjusts from 0 to 55 degrees. The eye piece is surrounded by a thin black rubber rim, and will prove uncomfortable for users wearing glasses. The 113k image displayed within the viewfinder fits the entire space. Below the viewfinder is the port for the lithium battery, underneath that is the AC cable port. A sliding power button and the red record button sit side by side on the right center of the back of the camcorder. Below those are a USB port and a jack for a remote control cable.

The Left Side (8.0)
The left side of the DCR-DVD200 contains the majority of the controls. The camcorder has a 2.5 inch LCD with 123,000 pixel resolution. The LCD serves not only as a slew of interactive-control features, but also conceals five playback buttons, and other manual controls. They include track skip buttons and a frame by frame tracking, but that feature is controlled with the remote. Above the LCD and playback controls are a backlight enhancement button, a fader, and review button-that returns to the first sequence on the DVD. On the front of the left side, are manual controls for focus and exposure, which are engaged by depressing the corresponding button, then adjusting either with a tiny recessed dial. Of course a focus ring would've been the preference; the dial functions fairly well.

The Top (6.5)
The most important feature of the top of the DCR-DVD200 is a hot-shoe for Sony accessories like an external microphone or spotlight. In the center of the top of the camcorder, just past the viewfinder, is a switch for the Nightshot feature. To the left of that is a slow shutter for low light scenarios, that produces a jagged picture unless the camcorder is stationary.

Picture & Manual Control
Automatic Control (6.0)
The Sony DCR-DVD200 has a superior processor that delivers top-notch automated picture quality associated with Sony. Essentially, the DCR-DVD200 is a great point and shoot camcorder in a variety of lighting conditions. Interestingly though, Sony didn't include the touch screen spot focus and spot metering functions on the DVD line. We don't know if it was a strategic decision or just that the technology wasn't available yet for the DVD camcorders.

Overall Manual Control (4.5)
The DCR-DVD200 has a good amount of manual control. While many of these are accessed outside of the LCD menu, on adjustments like focus are not especially easy. The focus and exposure are controlled with a tiny recessed dial instead of rings on the lens. White balance is controlled in the LCD menu, as is exposure which consists of a series of presets, like sun/snow, spotlight, portrait, etc.

Zoom (7.0)
The 10x optical zoom of the DCR-DVD200, is controlled by a black toggle that provides smooth variable speed zooms. This is a great Sony feature, as the flat ribbed switches are often clumsy under finger. A larger track from telephoto to wide would be an improvement, but as is, the function is more that adequate.

Focus (7.0)
The Sony DCR-DVD200 works well in auto focus, with quick transitions to the principal subject in frame and its optimal focal length. Controlling manual focus with the recessed dial can be a problem, one because it is on the small side, and two because most innately look for a focus ring to make such adjustments. However, the fact that it's included in the camcorder does count at the end of the day, some manual focus is better than no manual focus. Although, with a good processor, perhaps the designers figured manual focus wouldn't be a deciding factor in the purchase of this particular model

Exposure (Aperture) (6.0)
Manual exposure on the DCR-DVD200 is controlled with the same dial as the manual focus. The Sony processor provides adequate image quality, and the fact that you can tweak the image as needed is great. Again the dial isn't too hot, it's on the small side and in an inconvenient location. Although if you're two handing it, steadying the camcorder with your second hand underneath the chassis of the unit, the dial is well within reach of the thumb. The Sony processor adjusts to needs of its environment, alternating from indoor conditions to outdoor seamlessly. The LCD presets further enhance the processors ability for optimal image in diverse conditions.

Shutter Speed (0)
The DCR-DVD200 does not include shutter speed control.

White Balance(6.5)
The DCR-DVD200 has auto, manual, indoor and outdoor white balance presets.

Gain (0.0)
There is no manual gain control on the DCR-DVD200.

Still Performance(6.0)
The DCR-DVD200 has much improved still performance over the DCR-DVD100. The DCR-DVD200 offers users the ability to shoot stills at a maximum still resolution of 1,152 x 864. This is a welcome upgrade from the unacceptable pixel resolution of the DCR-DVD100, which is limited to maximum resolution of 640 x 480. However, a drawback in the model line is that because users record both stills and video to DVD, you can't shoot still while in video mode. This is ironic in a sense, because on MiniDV you can shoot stills and video to at the same time.

VCR Mode (6.0)
 VCR mode on the DCR-DVD200 is really DVD mode, as there's no tape. Playback is great, convenient, and easily operated. Search functions jump from track to track on the disc, just like chapter browsing. With the remote, users can shuttle tracks frame by frame, so screen grabs are easy, although it's at a lower resolution that the maximum in still mode. Like the DCR-DVD100, once you 'finalize' it's ready for playback in the living room DVD player or the PC. The captured MPEG2 files are easily imported into desktop editing software for manipulation.

Low Light Performance (6.0)
 A of hundred dollars more buys you less when it comes to low-light performance. The DCR-DVD200 has a smaller CCD than the DCR-DVD100, and the low-light suffers. While the camcorder is rated down to 7 lux or 0 lux in 'Nightshot' mode, tested in a controlled environment of 15 lux on manual, the color spectrum is well represented with little grain. The image is certainly on the dark side, however, it is discernable. This is drop in performance from the DCR-DVD100, and is likely attributed to a smaller CCD. The DCR-DVD200 and the DCR-DVD300 come standard with a 1/4.7 inch 1.0 Mega Pixel CCD, and the DCR-DVD100 has a much larger 1/4 inch CCD.

LCD/ Viewfinder (6.0)
 The DCR-DVD200 has the same small 2.5 inch LCD Monitor that comes standard on the DVR-DVD100, the DCR-DVD300 has a large 3.5 inch LCD. Although with 123,000 pixels of resolution the image on screen is crisp and clear. A cool feature is the ability to adjust the size of fonts in the menu. So if you wear bifocals, Sony's got you covered. A pet peeve of mine is the quality of the eye cup. The DCR-DVD200 has a thin, hard-rubber boarder that makes use difficult for those who wear glasses.

Audio (5.0)
The DCR-DVD200 has a HiFi Dolby Digital microphone built in, but doesn't have manual settings for audio levels. You can however, adjust between two and four track. There is a built in hot shoe for a directional microphone accessory, which should be required equipment on every camcorder sold. The DCR-DVD200 doesn't include an external headphone jack however it does have a microphone in jack.

Handling (4.5)
 The DCR-DVD200 is slightly unbalanced as a result of the weight of the LCD in comparison to the weight of the DVD housing. The housing is hollow, and the LCD is in contrast full of features-both in menu, and external on the left side. This results in a leftward lean. Of course a two handed support system compensates for the drift, and allow for thumb access to the manual focus and exposure controls. Unlike most of the Sony's reviewed, but similar to the DCR-DVD100, this model has nylon strap instead of leather. The nylon works well, and corresponds to the 'new-age' design, with the metallic blue circle. Buy a DCR-DVD, and people will know you've got something cutting edge. Hopefully the next generation of the DVR-DVD's will integrate features from higher end Sony's, like a manual focus ring, better weight distribution, and a big ole' eye cup.

Ports (5.5)
 The DCR-DVD200 is missing ports that is a must have on most consumer and prosumer camcorders, a Firewire jack. Although, because the camcorder digitizes images right to the removable DVD, video capture issues are irrelevant and so is the FireWire. Another missing jack, one that isn't irrelevant is the external headphone jack. While HiFi sound is great, coming out of a dime sized speaker it still sounds small. The DCR-DVD200 includes USB, AC, AV, SVideo In/Out, and the important accessory hot shoe.

Other Features (8.0)

This is the second DVD camcorder reviewed by Camcorderinfo.com, and like its little brother, the DCR-DVD100, the DCR-DVD200 is also an exciting 'other feature' in and of itself.
16:9 widescreen mode
True Widescreen mode is controlled from within the LCD menu.
Webcam
While there's no software included for webcam capabilities, an included USB should enable not only the transfer of still images but also use as a webcam.
MPEG
The DCR-DVD200 captures all video in MPEG2.
Analog to Digital Pass Through
With the inclusion of the SVideo jacks, the DCR-DVD200 can transfer an analog signal from a VCR or television to DVD, and can directly duplicate that content if your PC has a DVD burner.


Comparisons(no score provided)

The DCR-DVD200 is an alternative to the DCR-DVD100. The price difference is a mere $100, which translates to less in low-light performance but more in still resolution. The DVD recording function is great, and even though you're limited to 30 minutes per disc, it makes editing and viewing on other players a lot easier. The downside of upgrading from the DVD100 to the DVD200 is that the CCD size is actually decreased, resulting in poorer video quality. Unless you need higher resolution stills, I would stay with the DVD100 and save some money.

Comparisons to MiniDV camcorders in the same price range yield a different set of results. The Sony DCR-TRV38, a three CCD Panasonic PV-GS70, and the Sony DCR-PC105 are all at or around the $900 price range. It should be noted that the DCR-DVD200 performed nearly identically to the DCR-TRV8, as it should, they have identical imaging systems. The Sony DCR-TRV38 had the best low-light score, but the three CCD Panasonic PV-GS70 performed best in normal lighting conditions. The PV-GS70 also beats all the camcorders, including the DCR-DVD200 for manual control. Tested at 15 lux in automatic the Panasonic was just a few grades below the Sony DCR-TRV39. The DCR-PC105 fall short of these models in video and low-light. None of these camcorders have the removable DVD.


Who's it For
Point and Shooter's (4.0)
This is my second favorite camcorder in the DCR-DVD line, and improved still performance will be an attractive option for the point and shoot set.
Budget Consumers(4.0)
With storage capacity of only 30 minutes per disc, better opt for the rewritable DVDs.
Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid (6.0)
The DCR-DVD200 has average still capabilities, but tons of storage at maximum resolution.
Gadget Freaks (6.0)
The camcorder is a gadget, and a handy one at that.
Manual Control Freaks(6.0)
The unit is primarily point and shoot.
Pro's/ Serious Hobbyists (3.0)
Well if you're gonna buy a novelty camcorder this might work for you.


The final score chart for the DCR-DVD200 is as follows:

AreaWeightRawAdj.Poss.
Video Performance
2.00
6.50
13.00
20.0
The Front
0.20
5.00
1.00
2.00
The Right Side
0.30
6.00
1.80
3.00
The Back
0.25
6.50
1.60
1.63
The Left Side
0.20
8.00
1.60
2.00
The Top
0.15
6.50
0.98
1.50
Automatic Control
0.50
6.00
3.00
5.00
Overall Manual Control
0.60
4.50
2.70
6.00
Zoom
0.75
7.00
5.25
7.50
Focus
0.70
7.00
4.90
7.00
Exposure
0.65
6.00
3.90
6.50
Shutter Speed
0.60
0.00
0.00
6.00
White Balance
0.55
6.50
3.58
5.50
Gain
0.50
0.00
0.00
5.00
Still Performance
1.20
6.00
7.20
12.00
VCR Mode
0.30
6.00
1.80
3.00
Low Light Performance
2.00
6.50
13.00
20.00
LCD / Viewfinder
0.60
6.00
3.60
6.00
Audio
1.00
5.00
5.00
10.00
Handling
1.25
4.50
5.66
12.50
Jacks / Ports / Plugs
0.80
5.50
4.40
8.00
Other Features
0.70
8.0
5.60
7.0
Value
1.25
3.0
3.75
12.5
Total (weighted)
93.80
170.5


Conclusion
The DCR-DVD200 is a good point and shoot camcorder with a smaller but higher pixel resolution CCD over the DCR-DVD100. The camcorder does well in automatic mode, and with manual control features, the image can be perfected if the need arises. Convenience is the name of the game, with all video and stills saved to a DVD disc that can be quickly finalized and played on any DVD player; including PS2 and Xbox. With the integration of a few high-end camcorder features, like a focus ring, more manual control, a better body design, and three CCD's Sony could set an industry precedent.