The DCR-DVD505 is the top unit in Sony's current line of standard-definition DVD camcorders, a step above the DCR-DVD405. Like that model, the DCR-DVD505 records video to 3-inch DVD, either write-once DVD-R or rewritable DVD-RW and DVD+RW. Whether you're shooting video or digital stills, the overall picture quality is outstanding. Much of this stems from the DCR-DVD505's 1/3-inch, 2.1-megapixel CLEARVID CMOS sensor, the same chip used in some of Sony's HD camcorders.

In addition to clean, sharp video with accurate colors, the DCR-DVD505 produces stunning digital stills. These can be saved to disc, Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick ProDuo in standard or fine quality settings, at a maximum resolution of 2,304X1,728. Unlike the lesser models, the DCR-DVD505 enables you to shoot video and record stills simultaneously.

The DCR-DVD505 uses a professional-quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with a 10X optical/120X digital zoom capability, supported by digital image stabilization. This is identical to the DCR-DVD405, but at 3-1/2 inches, the DCR-DVD505's LCD wide-format touchscreen is much larger. As with most Sony camcorders, the DCR-DVD505 is extremely easy to use and offers excellent automatic controls, but serious videographers should look elsewhere. Basic manual controls such as spot focusing and spot metering work effectively, and the camcorder provides limited control over aperture and white balance. However, there are no manual gain or shutter-speed controls.

Among the DCR-DVD505's advanced features is Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound recording, as well as Smooth Slow recording. This lets you capture 3 seconds of motion and play it back in 12 seconds, slowing down (for example) a golf swing or tennis stroke. The DCR-DVD505 boasts an active interface shoe for adding accessories like a wireless Bluetooth microphone. The DCR-DVD505 is a high-quality DVD camcorder that delivers excellent video and stills for point-and-shoot enthusiasts with a big budget.

Pros:  Great video and stills picture quality, easy to use
Cons:  High cost, limited manual controls

Warranty
90 days labor, 1 year parts