Digital Video Camera & Camcorder Review

Capture powerful sound and sharp images direct to DVD with the DCR-DVD405 Handycam® camcorder. Built for serious recording, the DCR-DVD405 comes with a Carl Zeiss® Vario-Sonnar® T* lens for creating superior quality images. Featuring high-resolution imaging with an 3.3 Megapixel Advanced HAD™ CCD imager, you can take not only sharp digital video, but also detailed digital still photographs. You can record Dolby Digital 5.1 Channel surround sound with the built-in microphone to make watching your movies like a visit to the theater.

Other features include Super NightShot® Infrared System to help record in low light situations. See the bigger picture with the 2.7″ wide SwivelScreenâ„¢ LCD display with touch panel capabilities. Best of all, you capture digital videos directly to DVD for the ultimate in recording convenience

CNET has user reviews on the Sony DCR-DVD405 Camcorder and has an average rating of 8.8 out of 10. Comments say: “I have owned many video cameras but have been most pleased with Sony Video Products. I had previously owned the DCR-DVD403 and then the Sony HC1 HD Video Camera. I sold the HC1 and bought the DVD405 and happy I did. People complain of only 18 min of HQ video, but how often do you run that long of clips. Speaking of clips, its nice to have them organized on the dvd and watch then without rewinding or finding your place to continue recording. Media is very cheap now especially when you buy in bulk. I have bought name brand media for as little as $0.40/DVD-R. The video camera is very small and easy to transport. As with all video cameras buy at least one extra battery. Another good purchase is the plug in wall charger by Sony that fits easily in the bag as well. Automatic lens caps is another nice feature. Have made of thirty DVD-R with no errors and all play in the DVD players I have tried. Finalization takes about 2 1/2 min if you fill the disc.”

CamcorderInfo has news on the Sony DCR-DVD405 Camcorder and writes - “The DVD505 clearly wins in the still features and still performance category. At half the resolution (2MP versus 4MP), the DVD405 cannot compete. But we are not inclined to lend much support to a camcorder who’s main virtue is its still capabilities. The best camcorder stills are not likely to match the performance of even a low-end dedicated still camera. If you’re seriously considering the DVD405 or 505, save the $200 and put it towards a point-and-shoot. We’re recommending the 405.

As for the DVD405 in competition with the greater DVD market, the Panasonic VDR-D250 is hard to beat. We love the D300, and expect great things from its little sibling. Panasonic easily trumps Sony is handling, manual controls, and picture sharpness. Only in low light does the DVD405’s 1/3� imager take charge.

For Sony fans, the DVD405 is the one to get. It’s a worthy follow-up to the DVD403, with improvements in still features, video quality, and a price drop.”

Amazon has a user review on the Sony DCR-DVD405 Camcorder and writes - “As an owner of many video cameras, I have experienced many cameras and have come back to the Sony DCR-DVD405. My first digital DV camera was the Sony DCR-PC100. Great camera, but a little dated. Bought the Panasonic DVD200 and it was terrible…
Then purchased the Sony DCR-DVD403 and was very impressed. So decided to go bigger and buy the Sony HD HC1. Disappointing to say the least especially since I spent $1700.00 dollars. So have now went back to the DVD405 and am done shopping. Great video, excellent Dolby sound, and pretty good battery life. Media is not so expensive when you buy in bulk ($0.48) or buy a few DVD-RW ($5.00/Sony). All my finalized DVD-R movies have played in all DVD players. I always use the High Quality (HQ) to record and yes 20min does go fast, but worth the other positives. Durability of the DVD403 was good so expect the DVD405 to be the same. I like the look and the jack set-ups on the DVD405 better. Also the power button feels more secure. So take it from my experience and check out the Sony DCR-DVD405. Well worth the money, but I still suggest the extended warranty to off-set the unknown longevity of the operating system. Any questions…feel free to email me.”

Further Sony specs here

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