Sony has announced the newest models in its consumer-end HDV camcorder line. The Sony HDR-HC5 features a 1/3″, 2.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, 10x optical zoom, and 2.7″ widescreen LCD. Jump up to the Sony HDR-HC7 and you get a 1/2.9″ CMOS sensor with 3.2 gross megapixels. Another major feature is Optical Image Stabilization, a feature sorely missing from Sony consumer camcorders for some time now. And finally, serious users will be happy to know that the HDR-HC7 includes an assignable, multi-function dial, a microphone jack, and a headphone jack.
Both camcorders should be available in February, with the HDR-HC5 going for $1,200 and the HDR-HC7 for $1,400.
