Sony debuts DSR-PD170 professional DVCAM

Sony introduced the DSR-PD170 compact camcorder to its DVCAM line of professional video equipment, the fastest-growing professional video format with more than 400,000 units sold.

The new DSR-PD170 builds on the legacy of its predecessor model, the DSR-PD150, the overwhelming choice of video professionals in applications ranging from corporate and educational production to ENG/EFP, television and independent cinema production.

“The DSR-PD170 distinguishes itself with the addition of several performance and ergonomic enhancements, many of which are the direct result of customer feedback,” said Robert Ott, vice president of professional audio and video products for Sony Electronics’ Broadcast and Production Systems Division. “When something works, you not only stay with it, but you also continually look for ways to make it better. In designing the DSR-PD170, we listened to our customers and incorporated their input. The result is a reliable camcorder that continues to meet the professional videography needs of an even broader user base.”

New features of the DSR-PD170 include:

Minimum illumination improvement for low-light recording; increased from 2 lux to an industry-leading 1 lux;

A new 2.5-inch Hybrid LCD SwivelScreen monitor for improved viewing in bright sunlight;

Simultaneous turn-on of LCD panel and viewfinder;

Increased adjustment steps on Iris control, with number of steps doubled from 12 to 24;

A lens hood featuring built-in lens cover. Wide conversion lens (provided) can be attached or removed without removing the hood;

A larger handle, viewfinder and eyecup;

Additional Record/Start/Stop and Zoom controls on top handle to aid in one-handed operation; and

Audio quality (S/N ratio) in the manual recording mode improved by 6 dB.

The new professional camcorder enables digital component audio and video acquisition in the DVCAM and DV formats. Under a wide range of interior and exterior shooting conditions, users can achieve up to 40 minutes of recording on one Mini DVCAM tape or 60 minutes on the same tape in the DV mode. The camcorder’s three Advanced HAD