Sony DCR-DVD850: Review

Posted to Camcorders 2010-06-19

Sony DCR-DVD850 review:

If you are looking for more than just an average handycam, then consider the Sony DCR-DVD850 camcorder. One can now enjoy those priceless moments as this model combines maximum flexibility with powerful features, such as the Carl Zeiss 60x optical zoom lens and the steady shot image stabilization that makes capturing sharp images a snap. In addition, the Hybrid Plus technology allows users to record videos or images onto a DVD, hard drive or Sony media. One could easily say that, packed with all the amazing options, this handycam is definitely worth your considerations.

The Sony DCR-DVD850 camcorder has been sturdily-built to ensure the most durable, comfortably, and well-handed experience. This model weighs approximately 13 ounces and measures 2.25 x 3.6 x 5.18 inches. The color reproduction of is quite appreciable, as this camcorder provides a video resolution of 720x480 and still-picture resolution of 680k. Captured content can be stored in the embedded in the DVD, 16GB of memory, or via an inserted memory stick into the provided memory card slot. The 60x optical zoom plays an advantage directly into the hands of the user, since it can be used to shoot videos accurately and precisely- even at a large distance away from the target. For this very same reason, the DCR-DVD850 is popularly used to shoot occasions such as graduation ceremonies, sporting events, vacations etc.

Rating:

4.4 out of 5

Features

As mentioned earlier, the handycam is packed with features that may take time for some consumers to get accustomed to the functions. The embedded 16GB memory can hold up to 11 hours of video footage, but a new level of flexible recording and transferring is available with the Hybrid Plus technology (DVD recording). One of the prominent features that are occasionally praised is the 60x optical zoom, but we have seen competing models offer more magnification. The Carl Zeiss lens is certainly commendable because its precision ground effects maintain sharpness and contrast of larger lenses. Clarity is exceptional with the 2.7-inch LCD display, and this display can be rotated 270 degrees for viewing multiple angles. The spot focus and spot metering is very impressive, and menu access is very easy with the touch panel on the display. The sound is captured with deep precision using the Dolby Digital channel microphone, recording all most active sounds from all directions.

Performance

The Sony DCR-DVD850 performs well in almost all the conditions, and it can be easily regarded as one of the best solutions for capturing great videos and images for the home consumer. In short, the image optics performance is impressive, though it could be better. The Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound via built-in microphone is certainly more robust than handycams of the past that only offered stereo sound. This camcorder is more of a multipurpose product since it caters to both picture and video capturing.

Summary

Overall, the Sony DCR-DVD850 camcorder is worth the purchase if you are a home consumer looking for a high-quality video recorder without the compression or expense of an HD model. This camcorder certainly makes sharing memories with your friends and families easier, so if you plan to take a trip or attend a ceremony anytime soon, then look into buying this product. Although some users complain that features have been sacrificed for the 16GB internal memory, the general consensus seems to be a thumbs-up.

Pros

Versatile- 16GB internal memory, plus room for more
Hybrid- new technology allows DVD recording as well
Valuable- great consumer camcorder for the price
Quality- captures great video and Dolby Digital audio

Cons

Limited- fewer features than similar camcorders