Digital Camcorder Sales Rise 12% Percent

According to CEA Market Research, digital camcorder unit sales have risen 12 percent compared to 2003, totaling 2.6 million units through September.

Sales reached 2.3 million units during the same period last year. Total camcorder sales, which include standard analog and digital camcorders, have fallen by 8 percent to 3.6 million units – a trendCEA attributes to a transitionary period between the analog and digital alternatives.

DVRs and DVD recorders have experienced even more impressive growth as consumers begin to understand the time-shifting benefits of DVR technology and the advantages of digital home recording. Unit sales of DVRs are up an amazing 304 percent compared to the same time period of January through September of 2003, surpassing one million units for the first time ever. Dollar sales in 2004 have already surpassed $345 million, an increase of 233 percent compared to sales in 2003.

“With more and more options coming available to the consumer at a range of price points, we expect to see great things in this category in the future,” said CEA Director of Industry Analysis Sean Wargo. “DVRs and camcorders will continue to boast impressive sales.”

DVD recorders have also experienced growth, with sales reaching 463,000 units, an increase of 44 percent compared to 2003. Additionally, sales of recordable DVDs have risen to 324 million units, representing 569 percent growth year-over-year. Recordable CD unit sales remain strong at 1.9 billion annually.

Meanwhile, sales figures for analog recording media and technologies are beginning to demonstrate the impact digital technology is making on America’s CE purchases. VHS tape sales are down 20 percent to 161 million units compared to 2003, and audio cassette tapes are down 13 percent to 97 million units.