Panasonic HDC-SX5 3CCD HD DVD Camcorder Get Panasonic HDC-SX5 Price / Buy Online

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The Panasonic HDC-SX5 High Definition video camcorder is designed to keep pace with the continued evolution in video toward larger TV screens and higher definition video content. Boasting full 1920 x 1080-pixel recording, the HDC-SX5 records beautiful, detailed High Definition video images. Add cutting-edge technologies like Advanced O.I.S. (optical image stabilizer), a 3CCD Camera System, and a superb Leica Dicomar lens, and you can see why Panasonic HD camcorders achieve a level of beauty that is simply unparalleled.

The Panasonic HDC-SX5 records onto convenient DVD discs. There is never a need to rewind or fast-forward, so users can play back a scene immediately after recording. The video image and sound data are recorded directly onto the disc for easy storage. The HDC-SX5 uses the high-resolution AVCHD format and features the kind of 3CCD video recording system used in many professional broadcast cameras. The HDC-SX5 provides about 40 minutes of High Definition recording on a dual-layer DVD-R disc.

The HDC-SX5 incorporates Panasonic revolutionary Advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) that minimizes the effect of the slightest shake of the hands, resulting in crisp, clear images that are beautiful on a large screen. The Leica Dicomar lens featured in the HDC-SX5 uses low-dispersion optical glass to reduce chromatic aberration. This advanced lens also minimizes harmful reflections, so images are crisp, clear and free of flare and ghosting.

Panasonic HDC-SX5 Key Features

Supplied Accessories:

• VW-VBG260 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery Pack
• AC Adaptor
• AC Cable
• DC Cable
• Component Video Cable
• AV Cable
• USB Cable
• IR Remote Control
• CD-ROM: HD Writer Ver 2.0E

1920 x 1080 Full-HD Recording

Images recorded by conventional HD camcorders have only 1,440 horizontal pixels, while full-HD camcorders have 1,920. In terms of total pixels, conventional HD camcorders record images with 1.55 million pixels, while those from Panasonic full-HD camcorders have around 2.07 million pixels -- about 30 percent more. The result is a level of detail and resolution that goes beyond anything you've experienced before. And because full-HD recordings contain a vast amount of picture information, they look beautiful not only on high-definition TVs, but on conventional (standard-definition) TVs as well.

HD images contain 4 times as much information as conventional standard-definition images. HDTV has 1,080 horizontal scan lines, standard-definition TV has 480. That translates into much higher resolution and much finer detail. Pictures are so clear and sharp, you can see the textures in an image. Also, HD uses a 16:9 aspect ratio, so the pictures you record have proportions that more closely match the human field of vision. This means that viewing is more natural and comfortable.

High-Resolution AVCHD Format

AVCHD is a standard developed jointly by Sony and Panasonic for HD digital camcorders. Using highly efficient codec technologies, it records 1080i highdefinition signals onto media such as 8-cm DVD discs and SD/SDHC Memory Cards. AVCHD allows an HD camcorder to make long-time recordings of high-density video information onto a DVD disc or SD/SDHC Memory Card.

DVD Recording Media

The HDC-SX5 records onto convenient 8 cm DVD discs. There is never a need to rewind or fast-forward, so users can play back a scene immediately after recording. There's no need to find blank disc space, so you can start shooting right away, and it's easy to play or edit the results right on the camera. The video image and sound data are recorded directly onto the disc for easy storage. In the AVCHD format you can record onto a RAM, RW, R, or R-DL (Dual Layer) disc and get up to about 60 minutes* of continuous recording. The discs are easy to store and manage, save space, and can be played on a Blu-ray Disc player.

Selectable Recording Formats

When recording onto a DVD disc, the SX5 lets you record in either full-HD or standard definition. The mode dial makes it easy to choose the recording format that matches your playback equipment. When playing back with a DVD player or recorder, select standard definition. When viewing on an HDTV or using a Blu-ray Disc player, choose full-HD.

SDHC Memory Card Recording Media

The HDC-SX5 also records onto high capacity, solid-state SDHC Memory Cards. In the AVCHD format you can record onto an SD or SDHC Memory Card and get up to about 180 minutes* of continuous recording on an 8GB SDHC Memory Card. The ability to use both SDHC/SD Memory Cards and DVD discs is a big advantage in full-HD recording, where there is such a large amount of data to store. This double-media system also makes it possible to copy a recording from the SDHC/SD Memory Card to a DVD disc with one-touch ease and convenience.

* When recording with HE mode (6 Mbps). Recording times vary depending on the pictures being recorded.

One-Touch In-Camera SD Memory Card to DVD Disc Copy

Using just the SX5 itself, you can copy video clips from an SD Memory Card to a DVD disc. Pressing a single button is all it takes. You don't need to use a PC or any other equipment.

3CCD Camera System (3 x 560k Pixels)

HD is especially good for scenes with rich, vibrant colors. And Panasonic HD camcorders provide the best in color reproducibility, thanks to use of an advanced 3CCD camera system. This system, in which three separate CCDs capture and process the light information received through the lens, helps reproduce high-resolution HD images with magnificent color.

Most professional broadcasting cameras use the 3CCD system, with its superb color reproduction. In a single-CCD system, all of the incoming light information is processed by the same CCD. This single CCD captures only black-and-white images, which are then passed through red, green and blue filters in order to reproduce color. The more advanced 3CCD system uses three distinct CCDs for processing, so there is absolutely no light loss. The three separate 1/6-inch CCDs separate the color spectrum into red, green and blue for digital processing by the camera. The delicate hues, tones and gradations are then faithfully reproduced, resulting in a vivid, realistic image. The 3CCD camera system draws out the full potential of HD image quality.

10x Variable Speed Zoom Leica Dicomar Lens

Leica AG of Germany is the manufacturer of fine cameras and lenses favored by photographers everywhere. The Leica Dicomar lens featured on the HDC-SX5 was developed specifically for HD digital video cameras. Drawing on Leica's renowned optical technology, this advanced lens captures clear, crisp, finely nuanced images with outstanding detail and contrast. The Leica Dicomar lens features 12 lens elements in eight groups and uses low-dispersion optical glass to reduce color blurring. A special multi-coating process is applied to the 14 lens element surfaces to minimize chromatic aberration, so images are crisp, clear, and free of flare and ghosting. This 10x zoom can fill the screen with even a distant subject. Because it's optical, there is no quality loss -- you get HD images in all their natural beauty. And focusing is fast even when zooming, so you catch all the best shots.

Advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.)

Imagine taking video shots on a moving boat and then viewing them on a large-screen TV. They're likely to appear blurry from the boat's movement and unsteady hands. Panasonic solves this problem with their O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer). O.I.S. is an optical system, so image quality is in no way degraded. Panasonic's Advanced O.I.S. is a new image stabilizing function that achieves around eight times higher precision than their previous system. The system uses gyro-sensors to detect hand-shake, then shifts a lens and adjusts its optical axis to compensate. And while Panasonic's previous system checked and compensated for hand-shake around 480 times per second, the new Advanced O.I.S. works around 4,000 times per second. Advanced O.I.S. enables finer, more effective hand-shake compensation. Also, because the system is optical, no image quality is lost. With Advanced O.I.S., you'll capture images that are clear, sharp and beautiful on a big TV screen.

HD Advanced Pure Color Engine

The HD Advanced Pure Color Engine is a special image processing circuit for the 3CCD HD camcorders. Panasonic took the advanced imaging circuitry used in their professional equipment and adapted it for home use in the HD Advanced Pure Color Engine. The result is a high-speed processing unit that can handle the huge volumes of data captured in high-definition video recordings. The HD Advanced Pure Color Engine also incorporates a new system that improves resolution and reduces noise while achieving a more compact size and lowering power consumption.

Video Compression LSI

Designed specifically for full-HD recording, this advanced LSI provides the high compression (H.264 High Profile used) needed to achieve high-resolution recording with a low bit rate. It helps ensure beautiful recordings by minimizing the image degradation that can occur when shooting fast-moving subjects.

Large 2.7-inch Wide-Screen LCD With Wide Viewing Angle and Power LCD Extra

The new LCD has a highly-detailed 300,000-pixel display, which places it in the top class of the industry, and a viewing angle of 170 degrees, both vertically and horizontally. Images are clear and bright even when viewed from an angle, so everyone can gather around the LCD to enjoy on-the-spot recordings. The wide viewing angle is also great for taking high- or low-angle shots.

Power LCD Extra lets you adjust the LCD brightness in two steps by simply pressing the Power LCD button. Plus 1 mode increases brightness by 80% for easy outdoor viewing, and Plus 2 mode emphasizes contrast when shooting in strong sunlight conditions such as when skiing or at the beach.

Pre-Rec Function

This clever new function* records three seconds of images even before you actually begin shooting. The images are held temporarily in the camcorder's internal memory, before recording onto the SDHC/SD Memory Card begins. This helps ensure that you won't miss the start of a moment you want to record, such as when an event begins all of a sudden. For example, if you're waiting to snap a shot of a jumping dolphin, you can press the REC button after you've made sure that the dolphin has cleared the surface of the water. The camcorder will record the entire scene, from the instant of the dolphin's jump until it disappears again into the sea.

* Effective in card recording mode with the HDR-SX5.

Intelligent Contrast Control

By detecting the intensity of the ambient light and adjusting the exposure accordingly, Intelligent Contrast Control prevents blown highlights and blocked shadows. This helps render natural-looking, highly nuanced images with proper contrast. Even when you're shooting directly toward the light source -- a very challenging situation in photography -- Intelligent Contrast Control lets you capture clear images with enhanced depth.

High 5 Lux Sensitivity / MagicPix^® Images

The new digital signal processor reduces noise to allow shooting all the way down to 5 lux illumination. You get natural-looking shots even in dim rooms or at dusk.

MagicPix Images gives you smoothly flowing pictures even in dark places, where it's normally difficult to capture good shots. This feature is a great way to record still images even in low-light settings. Now you can capture still images in full color onto the MiniDV tape and save priceless memories like a sleeping baby or a moonlit vacation night.

Quick Start

In Quick Start mode*, which can be selected from the menu, the HDC-SX5 begins recording in just 1.7 seconds from the time the LCD is opened. This lets you shoot those sudden shooting opportunities.

* Effective in card recording mode with the HDR-SX5.

HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface

Just connect your camcorder to an HDTV and you're ready for high-definition viewing. If your TV is HDMI* compatible, a single HDMI cable is all you need. When using a Panasonic Viera TV, you can also operate the camcorder with the Viera remote control for even easier viewing.

* HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

Ez Sync™ HDMI Control

Connect your SX5 to a Panasonic Viera television or compatible Blu-ray Disc player via an HDMI cable, and you can control both units in synchronized operation with a single remote control*. This kind of simple, easy operation makes it even more fun to view your recordings.

* With Ez Sync™, a control signal sent through the HDMI cable allows linked operation of a Viera TV, compatible DIGA recorder, and the SX5. Please note that this function applies only to equipment that is compatible with Ez Sync™, and that Ez Sync™ does not let you control every function of all connected equipment.

Included DVD Burning and Editing Software

The software included with the SX5 lets you burn full-HD recordings from an SD Memory Card onto a DVD disc, using your PC. The software also makes it easy to edit your recordings using a PC. The software guides you through the simple steps. You'll find editing easy to do, even if it's your first time. You can make a copy either in the original high-definition AVCHD format, or in the standard-definition DVD-Video (MPEG2) format. Choose the one that matches your playback equipment.

Focus Assist

This function enlarges the center of the image, making it easier for you to get a clear, sharp shot when focusing manually.

Composition Guide Lines

With wide LCD monitors, it's hard to keep images perfectly level. The SX5 and SD1 solve this by displaying horizontal and vertical Composition Guide Lines that make it easy to keep the subject straight and level.

Tele-Macro

Using the zoom at full magnification, you can shoot macro close-ups while maintaining a distance of 50 cm from your subject. This makes it much easier to capture extreme close-ups without your body or camera casting a shadow on the subject and while keeping the background in soft focus.

One-Touch Navigation and Joy Stick Control

With One-Touch Navigation, just press the center of the joystick to display an operating menu. The operations you use most often are right on the monitor, so it's easy to change settings or operate the camera without looking away from your subject.

Thumbnail View

The camcorder LCD screen displays a list of the recorded scenes for quick and easy searching. You can do some polished editing using just the camera itself.

HF, HN and HE Recording Modes

Moving Picture Recording Times (approx.):

AGS (Auto Ground-Directional Standby)

The O.I.S. linear motor system can detect when the camera is in an unusual shooting position - such as when you've inadvertently left it on in recording mode. In these cases, the camera automatically stops recording, saving both battery power and disc space.

AGS is set to OFF when shipped from the factory. To turn AGS ON, the setting must be made on the menu screen.

2.1 Megapixel Still Picture Recording

This feature combines three CCDs, each with 560k pixels, with Panasonic Quad-Density Pixel Distribution Technology to deliver true 2.1 megapixel still images -- 1920 x 1080 -- when recording to SD memory card.

0 Lux MagicPix^® with Light Panel

Designed for shooting in total darkness, this function shoots four frames per second using the LCD monitor as a light source. Pictures are clear and sharp thanks to the hand-shake compensation provided by the O.I.S. Light from the LCD is gentle and easy on the eyes, so you can snap shots of sleeping children or pets without waking them up.

Auto Lens Cover

When the power is turned on, the lens cover automatically opens. When the power goes off, the lens cover closes. You don't have to keep removing and replacing a lens cap -- or worry about losing it.

Built-in SD Drive

SD memory cards are incredibly versatile, holding vast amounts of information and are about the size of a postage stamp. That's why they're revolutionizing the way people enjoy audio, video and information content. In fact, SD memory cards are used in a wide range of products, including A/V equipment, PCs, cellular phones, PDAs and other communication devices. And you'll be able to enjoy this amazing technology as most Panasonic Digital Palmcorders boast SD card slots, opening up a wealth of networking possibilities.

Included IR Remote Control

USB 2.0 High Speed Connection

This convenient feature allows you to link the camcorder to your computer via the USB port. Then, you can easily transfer still images captured on Mini DV tape to your computer for use in e-mail or printed documents. The HDC-SX5 supports USB 2.0 High Speed enabling real time video transfers.

PictBridge Direct Print Compatibility

The PictBridge standard lets you print directly on a compatible digital printer. Print size, layout, date and other settings can be made with the camera.

Accessory Hot Shoe

Panasonic HDC-SX5 Specifications

Image Sensor

1/6" CCD x 3 (560K pixels x 3 total)
520k x 3 [16:9](Moving Picture/ Still Picture) Effective)

Lens Focal Length

3.0 - 30.0mm

35mm Film Camera Equivalent

42.9 - 429 mm [16:9] (Motion Picture / Still Picture)

Lens F Value

F1.8 (Wide) / F2.8 (Tele)

Lens Filter Diameter

37mm

Variable Speed Optical Zoom

10x

Digital Zoom

Digital Zoom: 25x - 700x

Minimum Illumination

5 Lux (1/30 low light mode), 1 Lux (MagicPix function)

Focus

AF/Manual

White Balance

Auto/White Set/Indoor/Outdoor (with IR Sensor)

High-Speed Shutter

Motion Picture: 1/30 - 1/8000
Still Picture: 1/30 - 1/8000 (Progressive 1/30 - 1/500)

Iris

Auto/Manual

Viewfinder

0.44" Wide Color EVF (180k pixels)

LCD

2.7" Wide (approx. 300k pixels), Backlight Compensation

Microphone

2-ch Stereo, Zoom Microphone

Flash Range

3.3ft.-8.2ft. / 1m-2.5m (approx.)

Self Timer

Yes (10sec. / 2sec. / OFF) (Photo Only)

Usable Discs

8cm DVD-RAM Ver.2.1, 8cm DVD-R for General Ver. 2.0, 8cm DVD-RW Ver.1.1 2x-speed(2x/1x), DVD-R for DL Ver.3.0

Moving Picture Recording Format

AVCHD

Video Compression

High-Definition: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Standard Definition: MPEG-2

High-Definition Recording Modes

HF: 13 Mbps / CBR
HN: 9 Mbps / VBR
HE: 6 Mbps / VBR

Standard Definition Recording Modes

XP: 10 Mbps / VBR
SP: 5 Mbps / VBR
LP: 2.5 Mbps / VBR

Recording Times, High-Definition (with dual-sided RAM disc)

HF: 28 min.
HN: 42 min.
HE: 62 min.

Recording Times, Standard Definition (with dual-sided RAM disc)

XP: 36 min.
SP: 74 min.
LP: 150 min.

Recording Times (with 8GB SDHC Memory Card)

HF: 80 min.
HN: 120 min.
HE: 180 min.

Audio Recording Format

Dolby Digital (Dolby AC3) 2ch

Memory Card Slot

SD / SDHC

Still Picture Format

JPEG

Still Picture Size

HG: 1920 x 1080, HN/HE: 1440 x 1080

Accessory Shoe

Yes, Hot

Jacks

• Audio/Video Output
• HDMI Output
• Component Video Out
• USB Port 2.0 High Speed (mini B)

Power Supply

DC 9.3V / 7.2V

Power Consumption

10.2W

Dimensions (W x H x D)

approx. 3.3" x 3.7" x 6.0" (84 x 94 x 152 mm)

Weight (Without Battery)

approx. 1 lb. 3 oz. (540g)

Panasonic HD Camcorders Feature Comparison Chart