Introduction

Now when you record your child's lead performance in cinematic surround sound, you can be sure that his or her voice will stand out clearly in the troupe. The new Sony DCR-DVD505 DVD Handycam model supports an optional wireless microphone that can be clipped to your subject while shooting. The microphone then amplifies the center channel sound in the camcorder's Dolby Digital 5.1-channel surround sound system. Thanks to Bluetooth technology, voices and sounds can be recorded wirelessly at distances up to 100 feet. In total, Sony is introducing five new DVD Handycam camcorders. Across the DVD line, you find Carl Zeiss optics for exceptional video quality, improved menu functions and access controls.
DVD recording
The Sony DVD505 features a 2 MP ClearVID CMOS sensor and Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar T* lens. The DVD505 is equipped with a 3.5-inch wide Swivel- Screen touch panel LCD, built-in flash, captures 4 Megapixel digital still image in 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios and has a dual record function to capture video and 3 Megapixel stills simultaneously, and smooth slow record function for slow motion video. The DVD505 is supplied with a Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround sound microphone, supports an optional Bluetooth microphone for enhanced center channel sound, USB 2.0, and Memory Stick Duo media slot. The Sony DVD505 will be available in February for about $1,100.
CMOS sensor
In addition to audio enhancements, Sony is bringing new ClearVID CMOS sensor technology to the DCR-DVD505 model. The layout of this new sensor is engineered to increase the number of recorded green pixels in order to boost image resolution and better enable the human eye to distinguish precise detail. Combined with Sony's Enhanced Imaging Processor, ClearVID CMOS technology offers a host of user benefits. For instance, the camcorder not only records stunning video but also 4 Megapixel still images. Its Dual Record function allows users to shoot video and capture a 3 Megapixel still image simultaneously.
Video and Photo
Other benefits from the CMOS technology include the smooth slow record function that allows you to view scenes in slow motion. Three seconds of video are played back in 12 seconds - ideal for analyzing your golf swing or tennis back-hand. The Sony DCR DVD505 model stands out from the camcorder crowd thanks to its 2 Megapixel ClearVID CMOS sensor, compact body design, and wide 3.5 inch touch panel SwivelScreen LCD with Clear Photo Plus technology for brighter images with high-contrast that are easy to view in virtually any environment.
Compact Design
"People have responded to how easy it is to record and share memories on DVD," said Linda Vuolo, director for camcorders at Sony Electronics. "By offering well-designed and feature-rich Handycam models, we've taken the lead in the sales of DVD camcorders and have helped to create a whole new market." "IDC believes that over the next five years, more than two-billion gigabytes of family stories and funny moments will be recorded, shared and stored on DVD, all thanks to innovative and easy to use products like Sony DVD Handycam camcorders," said Chris Chute, IDC's camcorder analyst.
About Sony Corporation of America
Sony Corporation of America, based in New York City, is the U.S. subsidiary of Sony Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo. Sony is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, communications, and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. Its music, motion picture, television, computer entertainment, and online businesses make Sony one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world. Sony's principal U.S. businesses include Sony Electronics Inc., Sony Pictures Entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc., and a 50% interest in SONY BMG Music Entertainment, one of the largest recorded music companies in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $67 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, and it employs 151,400 people worldwide. Sony's consolidated sales in the U.S. for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 were $18.4 billion.