The Sony HDR-UX1 digital camcorder marks the first AVCHD camcorder to record directly to MiniDVD. AVCHD is the new HD format pioneered by Sony and Panasonic for recording HD footage onto multiple mediums like MiniDVD, memory card, and HDD. Sony has hit the market first with their new HDR-UX1.

The Sony HDR-UX1 will record HD footage onto the usual 8cm MiniDVDs and will also be able to record onto new dual layer MiniDVDs, which will double the recording time. These are different than the double-sided MiniDVDs available now in that you won’t have to take the disc out and turn it over.

Footage is recorded at 1080i resolution. The widescreen LCD is comfortably large at 3.5″. Component as well as HDMI outputs are built-in along with a flash for still pictures.

The camcorder will take Memory Stick Duo cards, which will allow stills of up to 4 megapixels to be recorded. The HDR-UX1 will record audio in Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound, and will also include a headphone and microphone jack. Better yet, the HDR-UX1 also features a manual focus ring, much like the HC1.

Mark your calendars for September, which is when you can expect the UX1 to hit the shelves of your favorite internet shopping center. The price is steep at $1,400, so start saving now.

Press Release [ via CCInfo ]