The DCR-HC96 Delivers High Quality Video
Pros:
Colors and sharpness of image, depth to field, flash, auto lens cover, top loading cassette.
Cons:
Confusing controls, plasticky feeling construction.
The Bottom Line:
I recommend this camcorder because it delivers above average quality video and still images at an affordable price.
|
|
Overall Rating:
|
 |
|
Author's Review
I tried the DCR-HC96 for a week-long beach vacation under a variety of conditions using mostly the "Easy Handycam" (auto) function. I tinkered with some of the many manual functions, gadgets and effects but found that the "Easy Handycam" worked fine for most of my uses. The video quality for daylight shooting is stunning. Very vibrant, true colors, crisp, sharp image definition and an extraordinary depth to field is what this camcorder provides. It could easily be mistaken by the untrained eye for professional, broadcast quality video. Very low light conditions brings out some graininess but there is an infrared feature for clear shots in the dark.
The quality of the still shots is as high as I was hoping for. With 3 megapixels it is a jump up from the still photo quality provided by the previous Sony Mini DV camcorder cameras with 1 megapixels. At first I noticed, upon close scrutiny, slight, occasional stair stepping on the edges of the close up subjects. However, I later found that this had more to do with the quality of my viewing monitor rather than the actual image. The built in flash which can be set to auto, on, or off is very useful, particularly in back lit situations.
The HC96 is small but slightly larger than the previous Sony Mini DV models, mainly to accommodate top loading of the cassette. Prior versions loaded from the bottom making changing of cassettes inconvenient when using a tripod. It has an automatic lens cover that eliminates the possibility of taking footage of the inside of a manually placed lens cap. The photo, video and zoom controls are all right at your fingertips and can be confused with each other, but I expect that with use, operation will become second nature. The camcorder's shell is mostly plastic and in places, like where the battery connects, seems that it could fit more tightly. However, I've given it a pretty good workout and nothing has come apart.
Sony has provided substantial improvements in video/picture quality and functionality with the DCR HC96. I think it's perfect for the casual user who is looking for a higher quality point and shoot Mini DV camcorder.
