Ratings Snapshot
5 star:
64%
(11)
4 star:
5%
(1)
3 star:
5%
(1)
2 star:
5%
(1)
1 star:
17%
(3)
120GB HD Handycam® Camcorder
Model number:
HDR-XR500V
Rated 3.9 out of 5 stars
Series highlights: 1920x1080 HD video recording, 12.1 MP still image capture, 120GB hard disk drive, 1/2.88" Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, built-in GPS receiver.
ADDITIONAL IMAGES:
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- Position 1 Overview
- Position 2 Features
- Position 3 Specifications
- Position 5 Reviews
- Position 6 Accessories
Preserve Life's Moments in HD
Record breathtaking 1920 x 1080 high-definition videos and 12.1-megapixel still images directly the internal 120GB hard disk drive (HDD). A professional-quality Sony G lens and Exmor R™ CMOS sensor deliver superior image quality in virtually any light. Equipped with Face Detection and Smile Shutter™ technology, it's a cinch to capture smiling faces. Plus, a built-in GPS receiver gives you the ability to view your current location on the LCD map display, as well as tag your shooting locations. You can also create, edit and share you memories via the included Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software.
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Full HD Recording
Preserve your memories in stunning, incredibly detailed 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution. You can even share your videos and photos with family and friends on your compatible HDTV.
FULL HD 1080
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240GB Hard Disk Drive
Boasting a massive, built-in 240GB hard disk drive (HDD), you can record and store up to 96 hours of high definition video footage (HD LP mode), or up to 168 hours of standard definition footage (SD LP mode). You'll also enjoy peace of mind with HDD Smart Protection which prevents any recorded video and images from being lost if the camcorder is accidentally dropped.
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Back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS Sensor
Experience stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain with the newly developed, back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor. Designed for compact cameras and camcorders, the Exmor R CMOS sensor is designed to let you shoot video in lower lighting conditions with better results.
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Geotagging2 with Built-in GPS Receiver
Perfect for travelers, this camcorder features a built-in GPS receiver that automatically adjusts your camcorder's clock to the proper time zone and lets you view your current location on the LCD map display, as well as "tag" your shooting locations. You can view your tagged videos and pictures via the Map Index function or after you've downloaded them to your PC using the supplied Picture Motion
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Face Detection and Smile Shutter™ Technologies
Featuring Face Detection technology and Smile Shutter technology, capturing smiles and faces is easier than ever. Face Detection automatically detects faces and then controls focus, exposure and color while analyzing and enhancing for more natural skin tone in both video and still images. Smile Shutter captures a smile the moment it happens and takes still photos when your subject smiles, even when shooting video.
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Optical SteadyShot™ Image Stabilization with Active Mode
Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode represents the next step forward in Sony image stabilization technology. Active Mode improves on existing Optical SteadyShot image stabilization by allowing the camera lens to shift over a greater range of motion. This allows the HDR-XR500V to compensate for greater degrees of camera shake and deliver a stunning level of image smoothness.
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12.1 Megapixel Still Image Capture
Now carry only one camera for stunning High Definition and stunning high resolution 12.1 megapixel still image capture.
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Highlight Playback
Automatically create a short movie you can play back on your compatible HDTV directly from the HDR-TG5V. The Highlight Playback feature uses several criteria to identify and compile key scenes into a short, entertaining movie complete with music and transitions (HDTV and HDMI™ cable required, sold separately).
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PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Software
Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort and view your video and still images. There are also multiple output options letting you burn your memories to media, DVD or Blu-ray Disc™, as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites.
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Record in Dolby Digital 5.1-ch. surround sound
Capture audio the way it's heard in real life from all around you. This camcorder supports 5.1 channels of surround sound so that playback on your home theater will sound as realistic as possible. The built-in zoom mic records the audio of your faraway subject as you zoom in on them.
Product Reviews
Write a review( Rated 3.9 out of 5 Stars AVERAGE RATING | 17 REVIEWS Ratings Snapshot)
12 of 17 (70%) customers would recommend this product to a friend
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Awesome HD Cam
Pros: SUPERB picture quality, focusring, tilting viewfinder, 3.2"LCD touchscreen, SmileShutter, TeleMacro, Organized Playback
Cons: NP-FH100 battery needed for HD video; these new cams won't accept older P-series batteries
Reviewer: JoshM (Woodbridge, VA)
Date: Oct 30, 2009
I've had this product for 3-6 months
10of 10 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?
We've used Sony from the start. 8mm, Hi8, MiniDV, then now HDD. Sony is still the best. But there are still some problems... but you're forced to ignore them because Canon and Panasonic consumer camcorders just can't compare to Sony's. Now about the XR500V. Again, perfect video quality. I would definitely recommend this camcorder. SmileShutter is a great feature, taking the best candid photos for you. Playback is easy, organized by date. 120GB is a lot of space. FOCUSING is a bit slow, but it doesn't matter. You can work with it because when it does focus, it's super clear.
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars
A new level of imaging capabilities
Pros: Ideal camera for travel providing all imaging technologies useable
Cons: More technical info about recording modes needed.
Reviewer: Talkdoc (Las Vegas, NV)
Date: Oct 25, 2009
I've had this product for less than a month
6of 7 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?
This is an amazing combo of advanced image capture technologies and human factors design for ease of use. It is the ideal camera to carry on grand cruise adventures and it makes the problems of use of a digital SLR and older camcorder unnecessary.
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Unbelievable Videocamera
Pros: Everything
Cons: Nothing I think is meaningful
Reviewer: NJLawyer (New Jersey)
Date: Oct 19, 2009
I've had this product for less than a month
3of 3 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?
I have issues with Sony, but this camera is NOT one of them. Yes, it's pricey, but you can buy it and all of its accessories "on-line" for far less then advertised on SONY STYLE. That's probably the regrettable thing because you would to think that SONY would like to cultivate a loyal customer base. Regardless, this is one incredible camera. I won't go tit for tat with all the "experts" who have reviewed this camera because I think their reviews are largely irrelevant for my purposes. I purchased this camera to take family videos and stills. Most recently, I took videos of my nephew's high school football game and they were spectacular - definitely high definition. The single thing I like the best about this camera is that the pix are recorded on a hard drive. I was so sick and tired of having to buy cassette tapes to record video on my prior video camera. This way I simply record directly to the drive and then download the pix/video to my computer for video editing. It is so much easier then using the mini-dvs. If you can afford this camera, then I also recommend that you get the remote controlled tripod, the video/photo flash, the extended battery and the wide conversion lens. In my opinion, this camera will be a one stop photo/video camera for you during the next several years. Not only does it record in high definition video, but it will take photos at a 12 megapixil quality to boot. For what it is worth, I have been using prosumer video cameras for the past 20 years including Panasonic, Canon and Sony. In my opinion, Panasonic was unparalelled in the early going, with Canon and Sony going neck to neck in the past few years. However, I believe the HDR XR500V is clearly the best the prosumer video camera market has for us at this juncture and even if they keep coming with cameras that have more bells and whistles from and after this time, I have no doubt that this camera will definitely have staying power because of the sheer quality of this product. Deb R.
Reviewer Images: (click to see full-size image)
Offering all of the latest advancements in Handycam® camcorder technology, the HDR-XR500V camcorder is ideal for capturing the moment in high definition (HD). Record breathtaking 1920x1080 HD video and 12.1 megapixel still images directly to the internal 120GB hard drive. In addition to a professional-quality Sony G lens, this camcorder features a new, larger 1/2.88" Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, which delivers superior low-light performance. Additional features include Face Detection and Smile Shutter™ technology, a built-in GPS receiver, stunning image stabilization and flexible playback and transfer options.
1920 x 1080 high definition video recording:
1920 x 1080 high definition resolution lets you record your memories in exceptional Sony® Full High Definition quality2.
1/2.88” "Exmor R" CMOS image sensor with ClearVid™ array:
A 1/2.88” Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor delivers bright, vivid, spectacularly detailed video footage, as well as 12 megapixel still images. With 6 megapixel (effective) video resolution, the image sensor actually captures video at four times the density of high definition resolution resulting in a sharper and more detailed 1920 x 1080 HD picture. In addition, "Exmor R" technology captures images with high resolution and high sensitivity, while the advanced Sony® BIONZ™ image processor improves camera response time and screens out noise to help ensure that the signal from each pixel is as pure as possible.
Map Index function:
Map Index uses the geotagging capabilities of the built-in GPS receiver7 to "tag" your shot locations on a map in the camcorder, offering a new way to easily search and find a desired scene by location or view where a scene was captured.
Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization with Active Mode:
Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization with Active Mode represents the next step forward in Sony® image stabilization technology. Active Mode improves on existing Optical SteadyShot image stabilization by allowing the camera lens to shift over a greater range of motion. This allows the HDR-XR500V to compensate for greater degrees of camera shake and deliver a stunning level of image smoothness.
Highlight Playback:
Why spend hours editing your movies when you can let your camcorder do it for you? Highlight Playback uses several criteria - including Face Index, Smile Shutter™ technology, Dual Capture and time range - to identify and compile key scenes into a short, entertaining movie complete with music and transitions.
Dedicated Mic and Headphone inputs:
The HDR-XR500V features dedicated mic and headphone inputs (external microphones and headphones sold separately).
Dual Record with 8.3MP still image capture:
Dual record capability lets you capture 8.3MP still images while shooting high definition video, so you can capture those special moments without having to switch recording modes.
Assignable Dial:
An assignable dial on the front of the camcorder can be programmed to control a variety of settings, including focus, exposure, AE (Auto Exposure) Shift, and WB (White Balance) Shift.
x.v. Color™ technology for superior color:
x.v. Color™ technology enables the HDR-XR500V to capture nearly twice (1.8x) as many viewable colors as the standard RGB color range, resulting in more natural, life-like images. You can even experience this expanded color range on the big screen when you connect your camcorder to x.v. Color capable displays, including a wide range of Sony® BRAVIA® HDTVs.
BIONZ™ Image Processor:
The BIONZ™ Image Processor works in conjunction with the "Exmor R" CMOS sensor with ClearVid™ array for pristine imaging. The BIONZ image processor provides Data Noise Reduction, Faster Image processing, and Data compression to preserve videos and images. In addition, the BIONZ™ image processor enables Face Detection technology and Sony’s Dynamic Range Optimizer for both video and still image capture. The higher processing speed also allows Dual Recording to capture still images while recording video.
Hybrid Recording to HDD or Memory Stick Duo™ media:
Hybrid recording technology delivers a new level of flexibility of capturing and transferring your video footage and digital photos from the camcorder to compatible viewing devices. Record to 120GB1 hard disk drive or choose instead to record to removable Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media (sold separately). You can even select from various dubbing functions to easily copy video or still images from the HDD to the Memory Stick® media -- without using a PC.
BRAVIA® Sync™ technology:
BRAVIA® Sync™ technology5 offers greater ease of use in controlling compatible Sony products connected via an HDMI™ (CEC) connection. HDMI connectivity provides a simple; high-quality video and audio connection, with the ability to transmit HD video and up to 5.1 channel audio directly from the camcorder to compatible HDTVs via a single HDMI cable, sold separately. With BRAVIA Sync (CEC) technology, the HDMI connection also delivers the ability to control both the camcorder and HDTV using a single BRAVIA® TV remote5 and displays the camcorder’s playback menu on screen for easier navigation.
120GB hard disk drive:
A built-in 120GB1 hard disk drive can record and store up to 48 hours of high definition video footage (HD LP mode), or up to 84 hours of standard definition footage (SD LP mode). In addition, “HDD Smart Protection” gives you peace of mind by helping to prevent any recorded video and images from being lost if the camcorder is accidentally dropped.
Geotagging with built-in GPS receiver:
A built-in GPS receiver7 makes the HDR-XR500V an ideal choice for travelers. In addition to automatically adjusting your camcorder's clock to the proper time zone, the GPS receiver also gives you the ability to view your current location on the LCD map display, as well as "tag" your shooting locations. Tagged videos and still images can be reviewed and played back using the Map Index function on the camcorder or once downloaded to your PC using the supplied PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software9.
Smile Shutter™ technology for still and dual capture:
Smile Shutter™ technology lets the camcorder automatically take still photos when your subject smiles, even while shooting high definition video. You can also set the sensitivity and choose child, adult, or auto priority.
Power On by opening LCD display:
Power on your camcorder by simply opening the LCD display.
12X Optical / 150X Digital Zoom:
12X optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, Digital Zoom Interpolation means that digital zooming (up to 150X) is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom.
Active Interface Shoe:
The Active Interface Shoe lets you mount Intelligent Accessories, such as external lights and microphones, which can help extend the capabilities of your camcorder.
Smooth Slow Record:
The Smooth Slow Record mode increases the record rate from 60 frames per second (fps) to 240 fps, allowing you to capture 3 seconds of fast motion and play the video back in 12 seconds. This is a great tool for analyzing a golf swing or a viewing a bird in flight. In addition, you record an audio track to narrate the video footage.
Built-in Intelligent Flash:
For added clarity and detail when taking pictures in low-light situations, the built-in flash improves pictures and reduces shadows.
USB 2.0 interface:
A USB 2.0 interface provides an easy way to connect your camcorder to a compatible PC for fast transfer of video and still images for editing.
Face Index function:
Face Index makes it easier than ever to find and play back the right video scene. Using Face Detection technology, Face Index indexes your video footage according to the faces detected in each scene. When it’s time to play back video, simply search for what you want by selecting from among the detected faces displayed in the index.
Record and zoom controls on LCD frame:
The HDR-XR500V features an additional set of record and zoom buttons on the frame of the LCD screen, give you more control and flexibility when holding the camcorder, especially in overhead or low angle shots.
Dynamic Range Optimizer:
The D-Range (Dynamic Range) Optimizer function adjusts the exposure and contrast of an image to counter the effects of high-contrast shooting condition, allowing for a great shot every time. The D-Range Optimizer suppresses “blackout” in dark areas such as shadows and “whiteout” in bright areas such as skies. As a result, the captured image appears as natural as the original scene.
12 megapixel still image capture:
12 megapixel still image capture lets you take stunning, high resolution digital photos
Back-illuminated "Exmor R" CMOS sensor:
Experience stunning low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain with the newly developed, back-illuminated "Exmor R" sensor. Designed for compact cameras and camcorders, the "Exmor R" sensor relocates the photo diodes above the support circuitry, maximizing the light-gathering area per pixel so you can shoot with better results in lower lighting conditions. Approx. 2x increase in sensitivity compared to Sony's existing front-illuminated CMOS sensors at F2.0.
Face Detection technology for Video Footage and Digital Still Photos:
Made possible by the BIONZ™ image processing engine, Face Detection technology recognizes up to 8 faces anywhere in the frame and by selecting the most prominent, automatically controls focus, exposure, and color to help capture smiling faces brightly and clearly. Face Detection technology also helps make skin tones look natural without affecting other colors in the image. On AVCHD models, the camcorder allocates encoding bits on detected face areas prior to encoding other parts of the picture, making them sharper and clearer. In still picture mode, Face Detection technology sets the flash level to optimize picture clarity.
3.2” wide touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ display3 (921K pixels):
The 3.2” wide3 (16:9) touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ display renders sharp, bright, photo-quality images, letting you compose and share video and still images more easily -- even outdoors. With nearly 1 megapixel (921K pixels) resolution and a wide viewing angle, the Xtra Fine LCD™ screen is like having a high-resolution video and photo viewer built into your camcorder. The convenient touch panel allows easy access to menus and additional functionality such as spot focus and spot metering.
Professional-quality Sony® G Lens:
Designed specifically to complement the "Exmor R" CMOS sensor with ClearVid™ array, the professional-quality Sony® G Lens delivers superior optical performance. Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass reduces chromatic aberration for more accurate color reproduction with less “fringing”, and precision ground optics offer stunning resolving power to bring you sharp, amazingly detailed images.
Dolby® Digital 5.1ch recording with Built-in Zoom Mic:
Dolby® Digital 5.1 channel recording captures active sounds coming from all directions, so you can experience your home movies the way you experienced them while recording. The Built-In Zoom Mic focuses audio recording on your subjects in sync with the camera’s zoom lens.
Includes Sony® PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software:
Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD, AVCHD, and Blu-ray Disc™ media (sold separately), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites (compatible PC and internet connection required) 9.
Adjustable .27” Color Viewfinder3:
The HDR-XR500V features an adjustable .27” 3 color viewfinder (123k pixels) that lets you record and review video and still images with the LCD display closed.
HDMI™ connection:
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a compact audio/video connector interface for transmitting uncompressed digital streams. HDMI connects digital audio/video sources such as a compatible camcorder, Blu-ray Disc™ player, a personal computer, a video game console, or an AV receiver to a compatible digital audio device and/or video monitor such as a digital television (DTV). HDMI began to appear in 2006 on consumer HDTV, camcorders and high-end digital still cameras.
Film Roll Index:
Like chapters in a book, Film Roll Index helps you easily find desired scenes in video footage. When using this feature, the camcorder previews the beginning of scenes and can create scene indexes set at specified display intervals (3, 6, or 12 seconds and 1 or 5 minutes).
One Touch Disc Burn:
Easily burn a DVD copy of your footage using the supplied PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software9. Simply connect the camcorder to your compatible PC via a USB cable and press the One Touch Disc Burn Button (DVD media sold separately) 12.
Auto Lens Cover:
An Auto Lens Cover protects the lens when the camcorder is powered off.
Product Profile
Support
- Find related product support and help in Sony eSupport
License Agreements
Product Warranty
Product Specifications
Hardware
- Assignable Dial : Yes
- Light/Flash : Yes
- Manual / Auto Lens Cover : Auto
- Memory Stick slot : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media1
- S/S & Zoom button on LCD : Yes
Video Features
- PhotoTV HD : Yes
Convenience
- Face Detection : Yes
- Image Stabilization : Optical SteadyShot® Image Stabilization
- Smile Shutter™ technology : Yes
- Dynamic Range Optimizer : Yes
- Quick On : Power on by LCD
- Memory Stick PRO™ Media Compatibility : Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media (Sold Separately)
- Dual Record : 8.3 megapixel
- Still Image Mode(s) : JPEG
- Hybrid : Yes
- Scene Mode(s) : Auto, Twilight, Candle, Sunrise & Sunset, Fireworks, Landscape, Portrait, Spotlight, Beach, Snow
- Accessory Shoe : Yes (Active Interface Shoe)
Display
- LCD Screen : 3.2" wide touch panel3 LCD display (921k pixels)
- Viewfinder : Wide (color 123k)
Video Specs
- Video Signal : HD: 1920x1080/60i; SD: NTSC color, EIA standards
Video
- Format : HD: MPEG4 AVC/H.264; SD: MPEG2
- Video Signal : HD: 1920x1080/60i; SD: NTSC color, EIA standards
General
- Imaging Device : 1/2.88" "Exmor R" CMOS sensor
- Processor : BIONZ™ image processor
- Pixel Gross : 6631K
- Video Actual : 4150K Pixels (16:9), 3110K Pixels (4:3)
- Video Resolution : 1920 x 1080
- Still Actual : 4500K Pixels (16:9), 6000K Pixels (4:3)
- Still Picture Resolution : 12 megapixel
- Recording Media : 120GB Non-Removeable Hard Disk Drive Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media (Sold Separately)
- Recording and Playback Times : 120GB HDD: High Definition: FH = up to 870 min., HQ = up to 1770 min. SP = up to 2150 min., LP = up to 2870 min. Standard Definition: HQ = up to 1770 min., SP = up to 2620 min., LP = up to 5020 min.
Audio
- Recording Format : Dolby® Digital 5.1
- Microphone : Built-in Zoom Microphone
Convenience Features
- Low Light Capability : NightShot
- x.v.Color™ : Yes
- Face Index : Yes
- Film Roll Index : Yes
- Fader Effect(s) : Black, White
- Photo Capture from Movie : Yes
- Easy Operation : Yes
- Multiple Language Display : Yes
- Slide Show Mode : Yes
- BRAVIA® Sync™ : Yes
Inputs and Outputs
- Audio/Video Remote Terminal : Video / S Video / Audio / Component Out / Remote
- Analog Audio/Video Output(s) : Included (via A/V Remote Terminal)
- Digital Audio/Video Output(s) : HDMI
- USB Port(s) : Hi-speed (2.0 compliant)
- Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s) : Supplied (via A/V Remote jack)
- HDMI™ Connection Output(s) : Yes (mini)
- Headphone Jack : Yes
- Microphone Input : Yes
- S-Video Output(s) : Sold separately (via A/V Remote jack)
- Active Interface Shoe : Yes
Weights and Measurements
- Weight (Approx.) : w/o battery: 1lb 1oz (500g), w battery: 1lb 4oz (580g)
- Dimensions (Approx.) : 2 7/8 x 3 x 5 1/2 inch (71 x 75 x 137mm)
Power
- Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM® with AccuPower™ Meter System (NP-FH60)
- Power Requirements : 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)
- Power Consumption (in Operation) : 4.4W
Service and Warranty Information
- Limited Warranty Term : Limited Warranty --- 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor
Optics/Lens
- Lens Type : G Lens™
- 35mm Equivalent : 43 - 516mm (16:9), 52 - 624mm (4:3)
- Aperture : F1.8-3.4
- Digital Zoom : 150x
- Filter Diameter : 37mm
- Focal Distance : 5.5 - 66.0mm
- Focus : Full range Auto / Manual (Touch Panel)
- Shutter Speed : Scene Selection, 1/8-1/800; STD, 1/60-1/800
- Minimum Illumination : STD, 11 lux (1/60 Shutter Speed); LOW LUX, 3 lux (Auto Slow Shutter ON, 1/30 Shutter Speed)
- Optical Zoom : 12x
- Exposure : Yes (Touch Panel)
- Resolution : 12 megapixel still
Software
- Supplied Software : PMB Ver.4.2.00 Supported bt Windows 2000 Professional Service Pack4 (SP4), Windows XP Service Pack3 (SP3)(32bit) Windows Vista Service Pack1 (SP1)(32bit/64bit). Not supported by Mac OS.
In the Box
- Remote Commander (RMT-835)
- Lithium Battery (CR2025)
- AC adaptor (AC-L200)
- Component A/V Cable
- Application Software / USB Driver / (CD-ROM)
- Rechargable Battery Pack (NP-FH60)
- A/V Connecting Cable
- USB Cable
Camcorder Cable
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1.4 Meter Mini Plug to USB Cable
$19.99
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5' HDMI™ Mini Cable
$49.99
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High Grade Multi-connect A/V Cable
$39.99
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10' HDMI™ Mini Cable
$69.99
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10' Component AV Cable
$59.99
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Handycam® Audio Video Cable
$19.99
Camcorder Case
View All 7 products-
Camcorder Case
$19.99
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Camcorder Case
$19.99
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Camcorder Case
$19.99
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Soft Carrying Case
$249.99
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Carrying Case for Handycam® Camcorders
$49.99
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Camcorder Carrying Pouch
$34.99
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Carrying Case
$49.99
Camcorder Flash/Light
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3-Watt Video Light
$39.99
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Infrared Light
$99.99
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Combination Video Light and Flash
$149.99
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Combination Video and Infrared Light
$99.99
Camcorder Kit
-
Accessory Kit
$99.99
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Accessory Value Kit
$114.99
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Accessory Kit
$99.99
Camcorder Power
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DC Car Battery Adapter
$69.99
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Portable Handycam® AC Adaptor
$49.99
Camcorder Water Housing
-
Camcorder Waterhousing
$249.99
Camcorder Battery
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InfoLithium® H Series Battery Pack
$99.99
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InfoLithium® H Series Super Battery Pack
$159.99
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InfoLithium® H Series Battery Pack
$59.99
Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media
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8GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media
$49.99
-
2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media
$19.99
-
16GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media
$89.99
-
4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ Media
$34.99
Camcorder Wide Angle Lens
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Wide Angle Camcorder Lens
$99.99
Lens & Filters
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0.7x Wide Angle Converter Lens - 30/37mm
$199.99
Accessories Outlet
View All 10 products-
REFURBISHED - LCS-BBA Camcorder Carrying Pouch LCS-BBA
$26.49
-
REFURBISHED - Camcorder Accessory Kit
$59.99
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REFURBISHED - NP-FH70 InfoLITHIUM® H Series Stamina Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-FH70
$49.95
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REFURBISHED - NP-FH50 InfoLITHIUM® H Series Standard Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-FH50
$29.95
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REFURBISHED - 10' HDMI™ Mini Cable
$
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REFURBISHED - Lightweight Tripod
$26.49
-
REFURBISHED - ACC-FH70 Accessory Value Kit ACC-FH70
$82.79
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REFURBISHED - 5' HDMI? Mini Cable
$
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REFURBISHED - VCL-HG2037Y 37mm 2.0X High Grade HD Telephoto Conversion Lens
$139.99
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REFURBISHED - NP-FH100 Info LITHIUM® H Series Super Stamina Rechargeable Battery Pack NP-FH100
$79.95
Camcorder Telephoto Lens
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37mm 1.7x Telephoto Lens
$199.99
Camcorder Lens Filters
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37mm Neutral Density Filter Kit
$29.99
DVDirect DVD Recorders
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DVDirect® DVD Recorder MC6
$229.99
Voice Recorders & Microphones Outlet
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REFURBISHED - Shotgun Microphone
$39.99
Camcorder Microphone
-
Bluetooth® Wireless Microphone
$229.99
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Wireless Microphone
$229.99
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High-Fidelity Stereo Microphone
$99.99
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Shotgun Microphone
$69.99
Tripod/Remote Control
View All 8 products-
Portable Tripod Kit
$19.99
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Shooting Grip with Mini Tripod
$99.99
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Tripod with Remote
$99.99
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Tripod
$129.99
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VCT-R100
$34.99
-
Tripod
$179.99
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Tripod
$79.99
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Lightweight Tripod
$49.99
Product Reviews
Write a review( Rated 3.9 out of 5 Stars AVERAGE RATING | 17 REVIEWS Ratings Snapshot)
12 of 17 (70%) customers would recommend this product to a friend
Pages
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Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: JoshM (Woodbridge, VA)
Date: Oct 30, 2009
I've had this product for 3-6 months
10of 10 people found this helpful
Was this review helpful?
Awesome HD Cam
Pros: SUPERB picture quality, focusring, tilting viewfinder, 3.2"LCD touchscreen, SmileShutter, TeleMacro, Organized Playback
Cons: NP-FH100 battery needed for HD video; these new cams won't accept older P-series batteries
We've used Sony from the start. 8mm, Hi8, MiniDV, then now HDD. Sony is still the best. But there are still some problems... but you're forced to ignore them because Canon and Panasonic consumer camcorders just can't compare to Sony's. Now about the XR500V. Again, perfect video quality. I would definitely recommend this camcorder. SmileShutter is a great feature, taking the best candid photos for you. Playback is easy, organized by date. 120GB is a lot of space. FOCUSING is a bit slow, but it doesn't matter. You can work with it because when it does focus, it's super clear.
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars
Reviewer: Talkdoc (Las Vegas, NV)
Date: Oct 25, 2009
I've had this product for less than a month
6of 7 people found this helpful
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A new level of imaging capabilities
Pros: Ideal camera for travel providing all imaging technologies useable
Cons: More technical info about recording modes needed.
This is an amazing combo of advanced image capture technologies and human factors design for ease of use. It is the ideal camera to carry on grand cruise adventures and it makes the problems of use of a digital SLR and older camcorder unnecessary.
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: NJLawyer (New Jersey)
Date: Oct 19, 2009
I've had this product for less than a month
3of 3 people found this helpful
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Unbelievable Videocamera
Pros: Everything
Cons: Nothing I think is meaningful
I have issues with Sony, but this camera is NOT one of them. Yes, it's pricey, but you can buy it and all of its accessories "on-line" for far less then advertised on SONY STYLE. That's probably the regrettable thing because you would to think that SONY would like to cultivate a loyal customer base. Regardless, this is one incredible camera. I won't go tit for tat with all the "experts" who have reviewed this camera because I think their reviews are largely irrelevant for my purposes. I purchased this camera to take family videos and stills. Most recently, I took videos of my nephew's high school football game and they were spectacular - definitely high definition. The single thing I like the best about this camera is that the pix are recorded on a hard drive. I was so sick and tired of having to buy cassette tapes to record video on my prior video camera. This way I simply record directly to the drive and then download the pix/video to my computer for video editing. It is so much easier then using the mini-dvs. If you can afford this camera, then I also recommend that you get the remote controlled tripod, the video/photo flash, the extended battery and the wide conversion lens. In my opinion, this camera will be a one stop photo/video camera for you during the next several years. Not only does it record in high definition video, but it will take photos at a 12 megapixil quality to boot. For what it is worth, I have been using prosumer video cameras for the past 20 years including Panasonic, Canon and Sony. In my opinion, Panasonic was unparalelled in the early going, with Canon and Sony going neck to neck in the past few years. However, I believe the HDR XR500V is clearly the best the prosumer video camera market has for us at this juncture and even if they keep coming with cameras that have more bells and whistles from and after this time, I have no doubt that this camera will definitely have staying power because of the sheer quality of this product. Deb R.
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Rated 4.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: Cugz (Phoenix, AZ)
Date: Sep 5, 2009
I've had this product for 1-3 months
7of 9 people found this helpful
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Works well with MAC iMovie, and Final Cut Pro
Pros: Great Video Outdoors. Easy import with iMovie and Final Cut Pro
Cons: Low picture quality in low light. No audio input for wireless mics.
I am a web developer and use video camera to create flash video. This camera does a great job for the price. Works well with iMovie and Final Cut Pro on MAC. The camera is very easy to use, and is very light weight/compact.
Rated 1.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Date: Sep 5, 2009
I've had this product for less than a month
7of 18 people found this helpful
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do not get this camera!
Pros: small
Cons: no 64 bit driver!
the camera is hard to use! its technologically outdated. overprised! it cant find focus and pumps non stopp! my old olympus from 1996 is supported by vista 64 why not a brand new sony!
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: shrivastava (Westerly,RI)
Date: Aug 24, 2009
I've had this product for 3-6 months
4of 4 people found this helpful
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BEST HD CAMCORDER
Pros: Good video quality and Easy Operative and Flawless Performance
Cons: No cons
This is the BEST camcorder I ever had so far. Sony is one of the best in market. We love still picture and video quality is crisp and clear. Design is fancy and detailed. Thanks to SONY for technology brought to world.
Rated 5.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: Bob22
Date: Jun 17, 2009
14of 14 people found this helpful
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this is a great camera
Pros: video sharpness and color, PMB software, stabilization, HDD size
Cons: battery size, price, WB auto, no 24p/30p, no LANC port
I upgraded from an HC-3 because I was fed up with tapes. I was worried that moving to AVCHD would be a step back in quality because of the compression, but this camera blows the HC-3 away. I honestly don't know what some of the other people were thinking that gave poor reviews (for taking pictures? who would buy this to take pictures?). This camcorder is a very fine piece of engineering that is a pleasure to use, produces outstanding quality video. If you want top-of-the-line without going pro and spending at least $3K, I think this is currently the one to buy. The PMB software is also excellent and came with a very pleasant surprise - I was expecting to have to upshift to MPEG-2 in order to play the raw files in real time - and indeed other media players can't do it on this 3 year old Core2 Duo laptop - but PMB can! Big plus, because upshifting more than doubles file size and takes forever. My only gripes: 60i looks great, but there was really no reason to leave out native 24p/30p recording. That I have to convert off-camera is a pain. WB sometimes gets confused in daylight, though this can be fixed by telling it to use "outdoors". The battery it comes with is too small, so add $100-$175 to the price tag (this is why I listed price as a con).
Rated 1.000000 out of 5 Stars Ratings Snapshot
Reviewer: Cecil
Date: Jun 5, 2009
24of 54 people found this helpful
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Tough luck, Mac users
Pros: nice design but fatal flaw
Cons: excludes Mac users
A big thumbs-down for lack of Mac OS compatibility. There's no good reason for this. It creates built-in obsolescence, not great eco-consciousness, folks! We're spinning through electronics too fast as it is - a corporate model based on cooperation over competition is the only eco-friendly future. So get with it, Sony, and play nice. You too, Jobs.
Response from Sony Style
By DevonO, Sony Style, Nov 3, 2009
Hi Cecil. Thanks for writing a review. Although the Picture Motion Browser software included with the HDR-XR500V is not Mac compatible, we now have some easy tips to help upload your video to a Mac via USB / iLink. They are posted on the Support site here: http://esupport.sony.com/perl/support-info.pl?&info_id=64. I hope this helps and thanks again.
- 120GB equals 120 billion bytes, a portion of which is used for system management and/or application files. Available capacity is 118GB after deleting the 550MB demonstration video.
- This camcorder captures high definition footage in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD based players or recorders, as the DVD player/recorder may fail to eject the media and may erase its contents without warning. DVD media containing AVCHD footage must only be played back on a compatible Blu-ray Disc device, PC with supplied software or PLAYSTATION®3 devices.
- Viewable area measured diagonally.
- Requires BRAVIA Sync feature in each product, including a compatible BRAVIA® HDTV. Please refer to owner’s manual to determine compatibility.
- NAVTEQ map detail on the camcorder is limited in some areas. By using a compatible PC, a broadband Internet connection, and supplied Picture Motion Browser software, your photos and videos can be shown on an online map service. The online map service is currently provided courtesy of Google, and is subject to change or termination without notice.
- Requires Microsoft Windows XP SP3/ Windows Vista SP1. Not supported by Mac OS.
- 10. Smooth Slow Record captures 3 seconds of video which play back over 12 seconds.
- 12. One Touch Disc Burn feature requires DVDirect burner or compatible PC with supplied PBM software (sold separately).
© 2008 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony, Handycam, Optical SteadyShot, BIONZ, Xtra Fine LCD, Smile Shutter, AVCHD, ClearVid, x.v. Color, BRAVIA, BRAVIA Sync, Exmor, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo are trademarks of Sony. Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Vista are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Blu-ray Disc and it’s logo are trademarks. PLAYSTATION is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment. Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
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