With the high-definition HDR-SR1, Sony has combined some of the latest innovations in camcorder technology. The HDR-SR1 is the first HD camcorder to use the AVCHD format to record images to an internal 30GB hard disk. AVCHD is a derivative of the MPEG4 codec, offering improved picture quality and superior Dolby 5.1 surround sound. The downside is that because it is so new, AVCHD is not supported by most editing software, but hopefully this will change in the near future. The HDR-SR1 records in standard-definition video as well, although you'd be missing out on much of the superb image clarity and audio performance.

The HDR-SR1's Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens boasts a 10X optical/80X digital zoom function. The 1/3-inch, 2.1-megapixel ClearVID CMOS sensor requires less power than standard imagers, so the HDR-SR1 has an extended battery life. We found the included InfoLithium battery lasted up to 90 minutes on a single charge, depending on the settings selected, and Sony's AccuPower meter system clearly displayed the amount of juice remaining.

The HDR-SR1 is noticeably larger than Sony's top-of-the-line standard-definition hard-disk camcorder, the DCR-SR300, due in part to a bigger, 3-1/2-inch widescreen LCD viewer. HD video is unforgiving of soft focus, so the larger LCD lets you ensure your images are clearly in focus before you start recording. As with most Sony camcorders, the LCD doubles as a touchscreen for accessing menu controls. The verdict on this feature strongly depends on your personal taste. Some people love the simplicity and convenience of the touchscreen, while others become incensed with the inevitable build-up of fingerprints. Given the necessity of obtaining sharp focus for HD, we would prefer to keep the LCD as clean as possible.

As you would expect from Sony, the HDR-SR1 offers excellent automatic controls, keeping the camcorder simple enough for a point-and-shooter to use. Less predictably, the HDR-SR1 also has a solid manual control suite, although it still lacks manual functions for shutter and gain. As a digital stills camera, the HDR-SR1 captures pictures at a maximum resolution of 2,304X1,728 to either the hard disk or Memory Stick Duo Media. However, the outstanding video and audio performance really make the Sony HDR-SR1 stand out.


Pros:  Excellent video performance, Dolby 5.1 surround sound, easy to use
Cons:  Lacks optical image stabilization, AVCHD format not yet supported by most editing software, touchscreen LCD quickly gathers fingerprints and smudges

Warranty
1 year parts and labor