Sony HDR-PJ710V High Definition 32GB Handycam Projector Camcorder

Rated 4 1/2 Stars (Click for Reviews)

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**New for 2012** Sony’s latest dual flash memory based high definition camcorder with a large internal 32GB flash drive and 10x optical zoom. SmartReview previewed this model at CES 2012 in Las Vegas. New for 2012 is the introduction of the breakthrough technology, Balanced Optical SteadyShot™ (which claims to be 13x better than regular Steadyshot) delivers smoother video in low light, and long telephoto shots. This feature was demonstrated to us (and it does work extremely well). Sony told us that the new steady shot runs the entire length of the optical system, from the lens to the imager. This is like having a Steadicam built-in to the camera. Also new for 2012 is an improved video projector (located on the outside of the LCD door). Sony has doubled the projector’s light output to 20 lumens. This will allow you to project your videos on a wall up to a 100 inch picture (This requires a darkened room to view). We were quite impressed by this little projector (see our video at the bottom of the page).

Advanced Features: As with last year’s model, the HDR-PJ710V features an ultra-smooth 60 progressive frames/second (1080p @ 60fps), it can also record at 24p (1080p @24fps), the same frame rate as movie film. The HDR-PJ710V Features a Carl Zeiss wide angle G-Lens (26.3mm) with 10x Optical zoom. Other features: 24.1 megapixel still images, Large 3.0 inch Xtra Fine LCD touch-screen (921K pixels), built-in GPS to geotag your video or pictures or view your current location on the LCD map display. The HDR-PJ710V has a new Large 1/2.88-inch back-illuminated “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for better low light performance. Bionz image processor improves the speed and quality, as well as improving battery life. Full HD (1920 x 1080) video capture. Infrared NightShot® for shooting at night.




Compression and Recording: The HDR-PJ710V uses the AVCHD compression format (up to 24Mbps) to record high definition video. The 60p mode records at an even higher 28Mbps using STD: MPEG2-PS compression. Tracking Focus follows selected subjects. Hookup to an HDTV through Component or HDMI. Dolby Digital 5.1 capable. Built-in Flash. USB 2.0 interface. Dedicated microphone and headphone inputs. Active interface accessory shoe for external microphones and lights. The built-in 32GB memory will record approximately 2 hours 35 minutes of video at maximum HD 60p quality. Also includes Face Detection, wind noise reduction, Smile Shutter, manual shutter control, External Microphone Jack. The memory slot can take either Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media or SDHC flash memory cards.

Upgraded 2012 Features: Balanced Optical SteadyShot™ (13x more stable than regular SteadyShot), a new back illuminated Exmor R” CMOS sensor, an upgrade from 12 to 24.1 megapixel still shots, output of projector brightness has doubled from 10 to 20 lumens.
Lens Specifications: 26.3mm – 263mm (10x optical zoom) F1.8-3.4
Manual Features: Assignable dial provides control of the focus, exposure, white balance, iris, and shutter speed. Advanced controls with expanded focus, zebra, and peaking.
Dimensions: 4.23″ x 3.44″ x 6.36″ (19.9 ounces)

Smart-Review Commentary: For 2012, Sony’s HDR-PJ710V is fully loaded with features that most serious camcorder users will appreciate. The camcorder is designed for low light in three ways. First, it has a large 1/2.88 inch Exmor CMOS imager, for better detail and less noise in low light. Second, the camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens that has an F1.8 aperature which will help in low light situations. Third, the new for 2012 Balanced Optical SteadyShot™ will help eliminate image blur that can occur in low light and camera shake. The Steadyshot upgrade is the biggest new feature for Sony camcorders. In addition, you get 60p, 60i, and 24p framerates to choose from, CinemaTone Presets for film-like appearance, a high resolution LCD touch-screen, and an upgrade to 24.1 megapixels for still images (up from 12 last year). It is loaded with manual features as well.

Feature Packed: The built-in external microphone jack and headphone jacks will allow you to use external microphones for better sound, or you can use the Surround Sound 5.1 built-in microphone. GPS can tag your video so you know where you were (exactly) when it was shot. The memory card slot can now accomodate SDHC cards as well as Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. The Tracking Focus feature follows your subject and keeps it in focus. This camcorder also uses the highest possible AVCHD compression quality (24Mbps) when recording regular HD, and 28Mbps for the 60p mode. A feature important to camcorder users is a wide angle lens which this camcorder has, at 26.3mm, useful for taking group shots, panoramas, and indoor shots. The Infrared NightShot® feature allows you to shoot in complete darkness. And lastly, a neat feature which we got to view (see video below), is the projector feature. The LCD door has a projector built-in which you can project your video on walls or other flat surfaces, up to a 100-inch size. We were very impressed with this feature. Its best to use the projector in a darkened room. This camcorder is fully loaded with every conceivable feature, and we believe it compares favorably to the best camcorders from Panasonic and Canon in 2012. The balance optical stabilization is outstanding. The HDR-PJ710V is a Smart-Review top pick for 2012.

Sony HDR-PJ710V	Sony HDR-PJ710V 32GB	Sony HDR-PJ760V 96GB	Sony HDR-PJ710V Battery
Camcorder Features *New 2012 Model Full HD Recording 10x Optical Zoom 32GB Memory GPS to Geotag Built-in Projector Manual Controls 60p HD Mode 3.0 inch Touch-Screen HDMI Terminal for HDTV 24.1 megapixel pics Balanced Optical SteadyShot™ Large 1/2.88 inch imager 26mm Wide Angle Lens	Is this the best price?	Is this the best price?	Is this the best price?




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SmartReview’s Video at CES 2012 of the projection feature and other elements of the Sony HDR-PJ710V:




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