While the HVR-V1U can record to DV or HDV tape, the unit can
also be married to the HVR-DR60, a 60 GB hard-disk recording unit that offers
up to 4.5 hours of recording time in either the HDV or DVCAM/DV mode. The
hard-disk also has a buffer memory function, allowing up to 14 seconds of video
and audio signals to be continuously buffered in the memory while the camera is
in stand-by mode.
The HVR-V1U camcorder's 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor system
natively captures progressive images at 24p, 30p or 60p, while maintaining full
1080 HDV resolution. Footage shot using the progressive scan feature can be
played back on any of Sony's HDV professional camcorders and VTRs, and be
edited with compatible nonlinear editing systems.
Additional professional features include: a timecode preset
function; a TC Link to synchronize timecodes; two XLR microphone inputs; a 3.5-inch Clear Photo LCD plus viewing
screen; and a cueing function that allows users to review takes without having
to manually rewind tape.
The camcorder and hard drive will be available in December
for $4,800 and $1,800 respectively.