Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo Handycam Camcorder With 12x Optical Zoom
by Sony
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Our Price: $498.98
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Category: Digital Camera
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: SonyFormat: CD
Release Date: 2009-11-30
Model: HDR-CX12
Product features:
- 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video resolution; 10.2 megapixel still image capture
- Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization; Professional Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens
- Smile Shutter technology for still and dual capture; Face Detection technology for video and photo
- ClearVid CMOS sensor with Exmor-derived technology; BIONZ Image Processor
- 2.7-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus display; Dolby Digital 5.1 channel recording; Built-in zoom microphone
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo Handycam Camcorder With 12x Optical Zoom
Customer Review: Fantastic Camcorder
Summary: 5 Stars
I exchanged the Sony TG-1 for the CX12 due to limitations of the TG1 (see that review for further info). I was between the Canon HF10 (which I also returned) and the Sony CX12, and in my opinion the CX12 beats the Canon. Here are my thoughts:
The sony produces a beautiful finished image; the colors are vibrant and the image is crystal clear. Even in less than optimal lighting conditions, the sony's image remains clear, with less noise, although color does begin to wash out (I'm talking 75 watt bulb as only light source in 17' x 17' room). The Canon was noisy in all but sunlit shooting, and the finished product did not have the punch that the sony did, even with the "vivid" setting.
The jog dial at the front of the camera is customizable (I chose exposure) which is very convenient. The canon requires you to use the joystick toggle which has an audible click when using during recording.
The sound on the Sony in 5.1 is excellent.......very clear. The canon was good, but often sounded muffled.
The included battery will last about an 80 minutes.....longer than the Canon at 55 minutes.
Many people rave about the Canon's ability to shoot in 24P or 30P. I found both settings to be very annoying. Shooting in those modes resulted in jerky image playback, especially fast moving subjects, or panning the camera. I did not notice any better low light performance in those modes either. I don't miss those options on the Sony.
The biggest negative is Sony needs to improve the image stabilization. This is the only item the Canon comes out on top. For some reason the sony seems to pick up more random hand movements than the Canon.
Another negative is the annoying structure of the Sony menus, very perplexing until you become accustomed to Sony, get some consumer feedback on the next camera.
On a final note, I see alot of reviews complaining about AVCHD. First, this is an HD camcorder. You can easily burn HD content onto any media (DVD-R, DVD+R DL, BR Disc) using either Sony Vegas Studio for PC, or Toast 9 for mac. The greatest thing about this format, is there is no converting necessary to burn a blu-ray disc playable in a blu-ray player. (If you don't have one, get one) I burned an 8 gig disc in BR format (DVD+R DL) in Toast 9 in about 20 minutes. The footage was stellar. If you are converting these files to anything else and outputting to mpeg-2, you are wasting the HD ability of this camera. I shutter at the thought of capturing the DV footage from the tape of my other camera, and waiting 2 hours for a DVD to be rendered and burned.
Overall, this is a great camcorder, at a great price from Amazon. I can't believe how far these things have come in the 4 years since I bought my last one. If you are waiting for improvements, why bother. I hear people talking about wanting full 1080P recording. Unless you plan on siting 5 feet from a 60" panel.....you really won't be able to tell the difference. I am recording in HD-HQ mode, the second highest quality, and the results are stunning. My advice is to run out and buy this camera.......it won't get much better than this at this price point.
More Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo Handycam Camcorder With 12x Optical Zoom reviews:
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Description of Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo Handycam Camcorder With 12x Optical Zoom
The palm-sized Sony HDR-CX12 High Definition Memory Stick PRO Duo media Handycam is the world's first camcorder to feature both Face Detection and Smile Shutter technology. With Smile Shutter, the HDR-CX12 can detect smiles and automatically capture still images, even while recording video. 1920 x 1080 Full High Definition video resolution and 10.2 megapixel still image recording ensure your memories are preserved in stunning detail. Thanks to the HDR-CX12?s small size and light weight design, it makes an ideal travel companion, so you can record that perfect moment, wherever you are. The records high definition video and still images directly to Memory Stick PRO Duo media (4 GB MS included), making it easy to transfer your memories to your computer or other compatible devices. You can also use the HDMI connection to enjoy high-definition video and 5.1 channel audio right on your HDTV. Features: Record stunning, incredibly detailed video footage in the clarity of 1920 x 1080 Full high definition resolution. Professional Quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens - Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lenses use highly advanced optics to deliver vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation, and perfect renditions of subtle tones. The additional T coating further reduces unwanted glare and flare for increased contrast and color. 10.2 megapixel still image capture - Carry only one compact camera for both video and still. Capture up to 10.2 megapixel still image for high resolution digital photos. Memory Stick PRO Duo Media Capture still images directly onto Memory Stick PRO Duo media (4GB4 MS included) - for easy transfer to PCs for emailing, printing, or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick devices.Camcorders
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