Sony HDR-SR11
One of the best options available in the market when it comes to tapeless HD camcorders is the Sony HDR-SR11. This camera is easy to use and has been equipped with a lot of features. The HDR-SR11 has the ability to capture images and videos in high definition and store them on a 60GB hard drive, Memory Stick Duo or a Pro Duo card.
In addition to this it also allows the user to easily import these images and videos to the Final Cut Pro or the Movie ‘O8. The quality of the videos and images captured using the HDR-SR11 is exceptionally good and can match that of Canon’s best models available in the market.
It may be a bit bulky in size but is very comfortable to carry around and use. In order to ensure stability, it is advisable that it should be used with both hands. This is because the left side of the HDR-SR11, where the LCD is mounted is a bit heavier than the other side.
The buttons and tabs like that of the zoom option and the menu have been conveniently placed. This makes them easy to use and operate. The use of plastic doors on the exterior of the camera is also one of the best aspects about the design. They help protect the connection ports from dust and are easy to open and close. They appear to be a much better option than the rubber covers that are more widely used.
The LCD has been given a touch-screen control panel. It is highly responsive and is a much more user-friendly option than the joy sticks used in other cameras. The industry experts believe that the joy sticks were easier and faster to use than the touch-screens. But since the popularity of these screens has been increasing, the HDR-SR11 has also been given one. It is said that the touch-screen on this camera are so simple to use that they do not even require the user to consult the manual.
Transferring the images and videos to the pc is also not a difficult task. The device can be easily connected to the computer using a USB port. The software will recognize the data and allow the user to choose the files they want to import.
The video quality in low as well as in standard light is impressive and accurate. The quality of the still images is a little disappointing however. The sound quality is not exceptional but the fact is that built-in microphones in cameras have never been that good. The HDR-SR11 does have the option of attaching an external microphone which helps cover the sound quality issue.
Overall the Sony HDR-SR11 is a good option to go for if a person is interested in capturing high quality videos. It is extremely user-friendly and incorporates many features that help make the camera unique to use. In terms of speed and performance it is as at par with its competition. In fact, this particular camera is considered to be the strongest contender in its category.