New Sony Handycams announced

Sony have announced updates to their Handycam range of digital video cameras.

DCR-DVD608
- Optical zoom has been increased to a massive 40x !
- This unit is now compatible with DVD +R Double Layer media - effectively doubling recording times
- MS Duo Slot (for image capture)
- High Speed USB 2.0 connection
CW Price : $779
Availability : Mid-Feb (limited)

DCR-DVD708
- Dolby Digital 5.1 recording - enabling the user to capture realistic real life sounds
- Optical zoom has been increased to 25x
- This unit is now compatible with DVD +R Double Layer media, effectively doubling recording times!
- MS Duo Slot (for image capture)
- High Speed USB 2.0 connection
CW Price : $879
Availability : Mid-Feb (limited)

DCR-HC38
- A massive 40x Optical Zoom!
- Ships with an Actiforce H series barttery - offering longer recording & charging times
- Start / Stop / Zoom on LCD frame - to help with difficult shooting angles
- iLink & USB 1.0 connections for video transfer & USB streaming
CW Price : $499
Availability : Mid-Feb (limited)

DCR-HC48
- 25x Optical Zoom lens with 41mm wide-angle setting!
- Handycam Station included
- "Usage Guide" - a feature of the GUI that allows users to choose the most appropriate camera setting screen to match their shooting preference
- Memory Stick Duo Slot for capturing still images
CW Price : $649
Availability : Mid-Feb (limited)

HDR-HC5 / HDR-HC7
- Both units feature the impressive mix of x.v.Colour and ClearVid CMOS - producing outstanding picture quality!
- The HC5 can also shoot 4MP still images
- The HC7 boosts this to an impressive 6.1MP! (The current highest industry rating!)
- HC7 also allows the user to manually adjust many features of the camera using the manual control dial
CW Price : $1779 (HC5) / $2049 (HC7)
Availability : Mid-Feb (limited)