SONY DCR-IP7BT Handycam

The DCR-IP7BT Handycam is a pocket-sized bluetooth enabled camcorder featuring Sony's new MicroMV-format tapes.

Image Quality: MicroMV tapes are smaller than MiniDV tapes, and hold an hour of compressed video. Initial consumer tests states images are sharp with “strong, accurate colors”.

Media Storage & Transfer: Still images and short video clips can be stored on the included 8MB Memory Stick and transferred to PC via USB. Replacing Firewire is Sony’s I.Link port together with composite port and S-Video-in and-out ports.

Usablilty: The DCR-IP7BT is said to be relatively easy to use, however buttons are rather small, and ergonomically. There is surpisingly no video playback button. You must use either the included remote control or the on-screen menu.

Battery life: About 1 hour.

Considerations:

• Editing: The MicroMV format cannot be used directly with any video editing programs other than Sony's MovieShaker (included with the camcorder). Option is to save the video in another format using MovieShaker. Then import into Video Editing Program.
• Built-in Bluetooth Adapter: Can be used to transfer still images or short videos to a Web album on Sony's ImageStation Web site via the included battery-powered Bluetooth modem.

Cost: Expensive at $1699

Comparative Sony Model: DCR-IP5 without Bluetooth - $1300.

Comparative Alternative Brand : Panasonic PV-DV701 camcorder - $650