Product Description

Sony (Personal Audio) (WM-FS566) S2 Sports Walkman 4-Band Ste ... Read more

Features

• Ergonomic S2 Sports Design
• TV Tuner and Weather Band
• Digital Synthesized FM/AM Stereo Tuner
• Up to 35 Hours Extended Battery Life
• 40 Station Preset Tuning (7TV/4WB/24FM/5AM)

Product Description

ultra-high memory capacity * some memory required for system management * includes Memory Stick PRO storage case * SDMI-compliant MagicGate encryption technology * warranty: 1 year * ... Read more

Features

• Backwards compatible with Memory Stick PR media enabled devices
• 512 MB maximum storage capacity (460 MB available to users)
• Minimum write speeds of 15 Mbps on Memory Stick PRO-enabled devices optimized with a 4-pin parallel interface
• Increased durability with an operating temperature range of -13 to 185 degrees F
• Ideal for digital photography and compact video; incredibly compact design is slightly smaller than a stick of gum

Reviews (1)

Reliable but not efficient
Alternatives:If you've got a Sony device, you generally have to use Memory Stick.Many people have also reported success with less expensive non-Sony brands of Memory Stick, such as Sandisk, though with careful shopping you can get the price difference close enough that you might want to stick with Sony.

Speed:Memory Stick Pro is compact, generally reliable, and designed to be fast enough to capture standard video (480x640) at a high frame rate (30 frames per second).If you plan to use that video mode on your camera, you need to get Memory Stick Pro, rather than standard Memory Stick.(But unless you're a professional, or have a high end camera, you probably won't benefit much from the more expensive Pro High Speed format.)So this M.S. Pro version is a good bet for most users.

Capacity:If you're a Sony camera user, you get used to paying more for everything.But the MagicGate "feature" - designed to allow copyright protection on Sony's music players, but useless to camera users - and the formatting waste about 10% of the capacity of the card.And unfortunately, at the moment all Pro cards also have MagicGate.So as noted, the usable capacity is about 460MB.

For a Sony DSC-P200, that will allow you to store photos as follows:
- at 7 megapixels, 141 pictures in fine, with low compression (or 277 in standard compression)
- at 5MP, 194 (or 365) pictures
- at 3 MP, 311 (or 554) pictures

As you can see, 1 MP uses up about 0.47MB of storage at fine or about 0.24MB at standard compression - so you can do the math on other combinations if you like.Other Sony cameras will have similar, but slightly varying, results.

Some cameras make it easy to switch resolutions, allowing you to stretch the capacity by varying the settings as needed.For example, on a 7MP camera, you can take some pictures at 3MP or 5MP and still get very good quality, depending on the size of the prints you plan to make.

Bottom Line:This Memory Stick Pro is a good product that would be lot better if it were competitively priced (relative to other flash memory) and didn't waste capacity on a feature most buyers don't need. ... Read more

Features

• Ideal for use in small digital devices
• Compatible with standard-size Memory Stick media
• 123 MB available storage
• Transfer speeds up to 100 Mbps

Product Description

3.3-megapixel CCD * digital photo mode with built-in flash * digital photo resolution options: 2016 x 1512; 1600 x 1200; 640 x 480 * compatible with Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick PRO® Duo (16MB Memory Stick Duo supplied) * 2-11/16" widescreen color touch-panel LCD * ... Read more

Features

• Professional quality Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens
• 2.7-inches wide touch panel SwivelScreen LCD display
• Direct your own personal movies with the DCR-HC90 MiniDV Handycam camcorder from Sony
• 1/3-inch advanced HAD CCD imager with 3.3 megapixel still image capabilities
• 10x optical zoom lens with 120x digital zoom

Reviews (3)

High Quality, 100% Accessible, INCREDIBLE RESULTS!
When I was first looking for a new video camera to make my films on, I wasnt even looking at MiniDV. I was actually looking at the $3,000.000 Canon professional DV camera. After hours of searching online, I finally found a video camera that I didnt even expect to buy. The DCR HC90. And, man, am I glad that I bought it! I was really looking for something sleek and professional, with exceptional quality. So I knew that I had to go with Sony. I read previous reviews for this camera, and I was wondering how such amazing quality could come out of something so small. And I didnt even totally realize how small the camera was until I recieved it. I have relatively large hands and the camera is the size of my palm! The camera has a very durable and sleek look to it. If this were a cell phone, it would be like Motorolla's RAZR v3 phone. It is so tiny and compact! The supersteady shot is AMAZING! I was thinking I was going to need a dolly for the set of my new movie, but it turns out that I didnt need one, because the steady shot is so perfect, it naturally looks like I'm panning and dollying. IT'S SO PERFECT! The LCD screen gives off ABSOLUTELY CRYSTAL CLEAR PICTURE! And its in TRUE 1.85:1 Widescreen! Which is very helpful for me, considering I am making professional films to send out to big time festivals. The special lens, which does auto focus for you, is absolutely INCREDIBLE! When I hooked my camera up to my TV (which isnt even a hi-def tv), I was blown away with how crystal clear the picture was, and how perfect the focus was. When I was watching the video footage I filmed for my new feature, my friends walked in, and asked me what DVD I was watching because the quality is so unbelievably perfect! All of the features are listed on the camera's LCD touch screen, which impressed many of my cast and crew on the set of my film. (I reccomend a screen protector, just because you are going to constantly touch the screen.) The touch screen is 100% perfect with no flaws! It even has little cartoons that show you what the camera will do! Absolutely stunning! I also bought the compatible 4 channel wide stereo microphone. THE AUDIO IS CRYSTAL CLEAR! YOU COULD LITERALLY HEAR A PIN DROP! The compatiblity between the microphone and camera is exceptional! The camera lets you choose what type of audio you want to record, and records it in its original, pristine condition. It sounds EXACTLY like if you were back at your filming location. And looks exactly like you ARE THERE!
This camera does EXTREMELY well with computer hookups for digital editing. My previous camera lost alot of quality in the camera to computer transfer, and with the HC90, I dont lose one speck of color, or one beat of sound! ITS ABSOLUTELY STUNNING! THIS CAMERA IS A MUST BUY FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR A HIGH QUALITY, EXTREMEMLY EASY TO USE, AND REWARDING VIDEO CAMERA! My new film actually looks like it was filmed on 35mm, and it is impressing many people when I pull out the camera, they are blown away with the exceptional quality of this little camera!
WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Camcorder Works Like a Dream
I picked this little gem up at the Sony store less than a month ago. They had all their camcorder models lined up on the shelf and the HC90 stood out like a Beauty Queen on a Catwalk. The overall design is an aesthetic masterpiece and fits ever-so perfectly in the palm of one's hand. It is super light weight and you can carry it around effortlessly for hours (it is compact enough to fit in your trouser pocket). All the basic controls are easily accessible to thumb and fingers, and it couldn't be easier to operate.
This is my first camcorder so I was under the impression that I would have some intensive study of the included manual ahead of me. I was mistaken. All I had to do was skim the first few pages and I was off and running (albeit in Easy Mode).
I have read some critical reviews of Sony camcorders bemoaning their compatibility with third party components, such as PC's. Nothing further could be from the truth! I own a Mac Powerbook. I took a few snaps in Picture Mode and the USB cable loaded them seamlessly into iPhoto. I picked up a cheap 4 to 6 pin Firewire cable at RadioShack, connected the device to my Powerbook and iMovie instantly downloaded the widescreen video footage without any prompting. And it was the same ease of operation in connecting it to my TV, my VCR and my DVD player. I can honestly say that I have never encountered a piece of high technology that operated with such ease and joyful simplicity. I have already shot hours of video without further consulting of the manual and the included software disc remains in its sealed envelope. This little gem seems almost organic in its construction and operation.
At 3.3 MP, the still photos are quite excellent and the panoramic option is a real cool feature. The video is superb. I live out in the forest and I can only describe the image quality as true to life. The built in microphone is excellent. When I reviewed some footage shot out in the swamp it was as though the bull frogs were singing right in my living room! The only drawback is that it amplifies anything stronger than a light breeze, but I found that this can be minimized by closing the LCD display and taking advantage of the camcorders sleek exterior design.
The battery life can also prove irksome if you like extended shootings.But for a modest investment you can purchase a battery with twice the life.
Do I like my new DCR-HC90 Camcorder? No! I absolutely LOVE it!!!It is so portable and easy to use that you can just take it everywhere without even thinking about it, and it attracts looks of admiration and envy wherever it goes.
The one I bought was the last one in stock. The salesman whom attended to me said the model was selling like hot cakes, and even though it was the priciest item on display, they were literaly flying off the shelves into the eager hands of happy customers. It is easy to see why.I have a Canon G6, a fine device in its own right. Since I acquired my HC90, it is more or less collecting cobwebs in a forgotten corner of my cabin.

Great, HI Res., 16:9Camcorder
I did quite a bit of homework before purchasing the HC-90. I wanted High quality DV in a 16:9 format. I own a 42" Sony LCD HDTV and I wanted sharp, high quality performance.

Other factors for me: Solid build (exterior), and good quality parts (interior). Firewire, size, ease of use, MiniDv, and price.

Things that I got but didn't expect:

size- When the package arrived, I was surprised at the size of the box it came in. It is small. When I opened the box, I was even more surprised at the size of the camera. I was expecting something compact but this little camera is small. I own a JVC MiniDV camera and it is about twice the size and 4 times as heavy. I wanted a small camera but thought that I would have to sacrifice some functionality for size. Well, I didn't. I don't think that I would want a smaller camera or it would start becoming difficult to push the correct buttons without looking around the camera first.

Still shots- I have read some comments that this camera doesn't take quality still pictures. I didn't buy it for that but this camera takes really nice photographs and in 16:9 format so it is just like having a wide angle lens. If you email your images or make DVD slide shows, this camera can take some quality shots. I have email some of the pictures to family and I had to resize them all to make them a lot smaller in dimension and subsequently, the images became sharper and details stood out. The flash works just as well as any other still digital camera I have owned. More than adequate for emailing or sharing on the web. I will be leaving my Olympus still camera behind on family outings because the HC-90 can take its place.

Motor function- I was simply amazed at the motor and function of the motorized parts in this camera. This thing is fast. Really fast. My JVC is a 3 year old piece of clunky crap compared to the HC-90. When you are playing back a movie and want to scan forward quickly, there is no waiting around for it to change gears, it does it instantly. The push button LCD is very responsive and the camera will take commands without clunking and whining. It rewinds very quickly. It sounds solid and it performs. I am most pleased with this surprise.

Things I expected (the good)

The video quality- So far it has been awesome. As I said earlier, I own a 42" Sony Widescreen and to see the entire screen filled with video is a delight for me. The colors are rich and the details are fine enough to satisfy me. The camera seems to handle 16:9 perfectly. My wife was astonished at the quality when she first saw it. I used the camera in low light mainly. Dimly lit rooms with lamps. The steady shot works great, giving a flowing look to video when you are walking around. The colors remained bright in low lit areas and in the sun, colors are rich. I messed around with some of the features and they all look good. My wife is a point and shoot person and I taught her to push the easy mode button and she was off. No teaching her how to use it. Common sense is all you need.

Dumping DV to my MAC G4 PowerBook- I plugged it in via firewire, IMovie picked up the camera instantly and I began dumping DV as well as editing. That was all there was to it. I haven't even looked at the software that Sony sent. IMovie also recognized the 16:9 ratio and set up my project accordingly. Quick Time and the Sorenson 3 codec had to be fed the aspect ratio manually. I have to figure out pixel sizes with a calculator. I plugged in the USB cable to the camera and my MAC and the MAC mounted the volume and imported my images flawlessly. I also did the same with my WINXP PC. Just plugged in the USB cable and Voila. It showed up as a new drive in My Computer.

I also used the HC90 for ICHAT on my MAC laptop. The guy on the other end said he got great video from me. The chat session was between Hawaii and Ireland.

Build Quality - Awesome. There is NO creaking (like my JVC). The camera is ergonomically great for my hands and my wife also agrees. All of the buttons are in the right place. The touch panel LCD is wonderful for me. It is solid and I don't worry about it ripping off when opening it and when you close it, it makes a satisfying thud like it was meant to be slammed shut in a hurry. The top loading of the tapes is great. No need to lay the camera on its side or anything like that. I can change the tape while the camera is plugged in to fire wire and the power simultaneously. The camera is very light but built very, very well. I am totally pleased with the build quality. It feels like a Sony. The zoom button is light or easy to manipulate but it can either zoom slowly or very quickly. It is quite sensitive and took a little getting used to. My old JVC felt like it was going to crumble in my hand and the mechanisms seemed so fragile but this camera feels like it can be handled with less apprehension.

Things that could be an issue but not as of yet.

The pry open plastic doors for cable plug in access - To charge the battery, you have to pry open one of the plastic covers to access the inputs. I can understand that these covers protect the jacks from dirt, etc. Some have said that they may easily become detached in the future. I beg to differ. My JVC has the same type of protective covers and I have not broken them off in 3 years. I was always prying on them because I am always plugging firewire, etc in to the ports. They never broke and most likely never will. I think the hinge is that annoying plasic that never breaks no matter how much you flex it. The more you use the covers, the more plyable they becaome and easier to access. The sony covers are good quality and I doubt these will ever be an issue. It is somewhat inconvienient to charge the camera because you have to open the cover first. The stand alone chargers are not that expensive and I purchased a spare battery so it might be worth getting the charger.

Memory Stick Pro - I spent a bunch of money for a Memory stick original for my Sony Still camera and it will not work in this DV Camcorder. The little one that they sent in not adequate. Looks like I will have to buy another one soon. I wish I did not.

Lens cover - This camera has a shutter that opens when you turn the power on so that you don't have to fiddle with lens covers. I absolutely love this feature but, dirt, sand, crap can collect in that area even though the lens will be protected. There are threads there for lenses and filters. There should have been a plain glass lens there to occupy and protect that area from the elements. I will most likely get a cheap filter to screw in there and protect the fine threads.

All in all, I love this little camera and I am sure that my family will enjoy it for years to come. Between this, my 12" MAC PowerBook, my 42" Sony HDTV, and living in Hawaii, I think I have what I need for ample amounts of fun.

... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

If you like to keep up with your favorite music or talk radio station while you work, commute or exercise, this lightweight FM/AM headband radio is for you. The SRF-HM33 weighs only 158 grams, making it easy to forget you are wearing a radio. The split adjustable headphones are comfortable no matter your head shape or size. With twenty presets (fifteen FM and five AM) a favorite radio station is only a click away. With the LCD screen and large +/- keys, tuning and volume changes are easy, even while on the run. The LCD display offers information on radio station, volume, preset station number and battery power. If you plan on using the radio while exercising or commuting at night, you will appreciate the headband light reflector. The Mega Bass sound ensures you receive the best possible sound. The radio runs on two AAA batteries.

What's in the Box
Sony SRF-HM33 stereo headphone radio, user's manual and a ninety day warranty. ... Read more

Features

• FM/AM Stereo Digital Synthesized Tuner
• 15 FM/ 5 AM preset stations
• LCD tuning display; large volume controls
• Digital clock and battery power indicator
• Light reflector on adjustable split headband

Reviews (10)

Inexpensive, but still not worth it
I admit it; I was drawn by the low price like a moth to the flame. I've had fairly good experiences with Sony products in the past and expected quality. Well, as the saying goes, "One gets what one pays for."

I live in a moderately large metropolitan area and have never had many problems with reception of local FM stations until now. Unless I have the sensitivity switch set to "Dx" (which dramatically reduces the sterio separation and apparently increases the background "hiss" or S/N ratio) I can barely receive anything at all. Even using this setting, reception is marginal at best.

Unless your expectations are lower than mine, I recommend that you purchase another headphone radio.

One other thing--I read the review of the woman who reports to use this set to receive television signals. I have no idea what she's referring to; I don't believe Sony markets this device as anything other than an AM/FM receiver.

Outstanding headphone - the best on the market today!
This is by the far the best AM/FM headphone radio I've owned and I have owned quite a few. I searched every electronic store in my area trying to find a headphone like this and could only find it through amazon.com.

The clarity of the radio reception is excellent. Having 20 preset stations makes it so easy to switch stations when you don't like the song playing on the current station. This is also the most comfortable headphone radio I've had. I can wear it for hours and it never gets uncomfortable. I also can't deal with having the wired headphones or the ones you wear on your arm, so this one is ideal.

I actually liked this headphone so much I bought two more, one to keep at work and one to give to my husband. He likes it as much as I do.

For the people who gave this product such poor ratings, you must be abusive with your things. I use my headphone so much and switch stations constantly and I have never had any problems with it.

I highly recommend this headphone for anyone wanting a reliable, comfortable, great reception radio, with no wires and the ease of changing stations at the touch of a button.

Terrible Reception
I returned this headset after 5 minutes of use. AM and FM reception are horrible despite antenna. Could not listen to a strong local station without constantly turning my head. Very disappointed.

Didn't Last Long
I bought one of these and it worked great for about a month. Then the right channel started to cut out, probably from a loose connection. Now I'll have to send it back to Sony.

Durable, Comfortable SRF-HM33 Walkman
I have used this same SRF-HM33 Sony Walkman radio for 2 or 3 years. It is fantastic in terms of comfort and clarity while jogging. I like everything built into the headset...I can't stand having to deal with a cord. Very reliable and well made. Only 2 minor problems: every once in a while the battery door will open and I sometimes forget how to preset the stations.

What I would like to find is this exact same headset with a 128MB or 256MB MP3 player built into it...and keep the FM/AM radio. ... Read more

Product Description

Sony (Personal Audio) (ICF-36) Portable AM/FM/TV/Weather Radi ... Read more

Features

• Includes 110-120 volt AC adapter
• Sleek, compact design that is easy to carry
• Tune in AM/FM, TV, and weather channels
• 4-inch speaker reproduces a wide range of sound
• Powered by four AA batteries or AC adapter

Reviews (8)

If reception is important, this radio is a great deal
So many small, inexpensive radios are just junk.We have a local FM station whose signal is so weak that most radios won't pick it up.When I needed a new radio, I went around to local shops trying several on that station.This is the only one I found that brought in a strong signal.It has good tone quality as well.The weather broadcast is fair but the TV stations come in strong.

Great Reception for the Price
I will echo many of the other comments here by writing that this radio packs great reception, versatility of frequencies, and long battery life into a perfect size case, similar to a small box of rice.Sony could have improved on this product by including UHF television reception, and perhaps a better speaker although this is limited by the convienient size.Overall, this is a wonderfully portable, great sounding radio for the price.I own three of these radios: one at work, one in the bath, and one in my shed (for yard work).

Fantastic Radio
I have tried a lot of different portable radios for around the house use.And I like this one the best, I get great reception on AM, I don't use FM, Weather or the TV bands very much.I bought it to listen to AM.And I was not disappointed. I am receiving New Orleans, Chicago, New York City, Atlanta and Denver in the evenings, BTW I live in the Midwest. If this is the type of radio your looking for you should like it. I had the CC Radio, it worked ok, but it was so big that it was hard to lug around.I still have the GE Superradio, but I dont use it much because of size.And neither seem to bring in stations any better than this little Sony does. Digital radios use batteries up too fast.The batteries last a long time in this Sony.

Good deal
we have found this product to work well, and recommend it without reservation -- great to have ac and battery power sources and price is right

The best (reasonably priced) portable I've yet found ...
First of all, I didn't buy this multiband Sony for the weather, rather for the TV reception. in addition to the excellent am/fm tuning. It just boils down to the fact that sometimes I'm in a room such as the kitchen preparing a meal and still want to listen to the likes of Charlie Rose on PBS. Btw, this is my second Sony ICF36 - one for use in the kitchen and one for the bathroom.

As to the reception, having had approximately half a dozen TV/AM/FM radios over the last 25 years, this one beats them all, especially in clarity of reception. No, it's not perfect but far better than you'd expect for one in this price range.

An added bonus is it takes 4 AA batteries. Since I do a lot of digital photography, I simply use rechargeable batteries interchanged from my Olympus digital camera and get about 10 to 15 hours play time on a charge. This way, when I move the radios from room to room, there are no cords to worry about or get in the way.

Lastly, with the long play time the batteries seem to give, it makes a terrific power outage radio as you can at least hear the sound on that favorite TV show of yours when the full size TV's without power.

All in all, I think you'll you'll like the Sony ICF36. Obviously I do :-)
... Read more

Product Description

Sony’s newest Double Layer DVD recorder brings a new level of performance to DVD burning. Single layer DVD+R discs can now be burned at up to 16X speed, burning an entire disc in about 5 minutes. Double Layer DVD+R DL discs can also be burned, giving you up to 4 hours of MPEG-2 video or up to 8.5GB of data storage space on a single disc. Being part of the Dual RW family, the DRU-710A burns both standard 4.7GB DVD+R and +RW discs and CD-R/RW discs.

Sony has packed this technology into an easy to install retail upgrade solution kit for your Windows® 2000 or Windows® XP PC. In addition, the award winning Nero™ software suite gets you up and running quickly and easily.

• Burns DVD+R discs at 16X max, capable of burning a full disc in about 5 minutes.
• Burns 8.5GB DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs capable of storing up to 4 hours of MPEG-2 Video on single sided disc with 2 recording layers. Recorded DVD+R DL discs compatible with many consumer DVD players and DVD-ROM drives.
• Burns standard 4.7GB DVD+R and DVD+RW Discs and CD-R/RW.
• Maximum flexibility and compatibility - Choose the optimal DVD recordable media for your project without sacrificing compatibility with your playback hardware.
• Award winning Nero™ Software bundle for burning all your video, music and data to DVD or CD.
• Includes black replacement front bezel for matching the drive to a black PC case.
• Short form-factor drive fits well in smaller footprint PC cases.

Features

• Wide Range of Compatible DVD+R/+RW Media
• Write Speeds - Up to 2.4x Double Layer DVD+R, 16x Single Layer DVD+R, 4x DVD+RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-RW, 48x CD-R, & 24x CD-RW
• Read Speeds - Up to 16x DVD-ROM and 48x CD-ROM
• Buffer Underrun Protection Technology
• PC compatible and requires Windows 2000 Professional, Windows XP Home, or Windows XP Professional

Reviews (10)

rubbish sony writers
Don't buy sony dvd writers . I bought one . it will hardly write to anything, , I have made lots of coaters!. e-mailing Sony only produces standardised responses and no real help. I have an expensive paperweight, having replaced it for a decent writer

great product
this is a great product.

I have no problems in burn DVDs data films etc..

Very easy to install and it was reconized by my XP.

I really recommend this product for everyone, I have a Sony CD-RW for more than 5 years and is still working nicely. I hope this DVD drive will do the same.

Thumbs UP for Sony and this DVD-RW.

Has worked flawlessly
My wife bought me the drive (yes, I dropped the hint on the make/model -well, if by hinting you mean printed it out on 11x17, leaving it on her desk, covering her keyboard :) )
Anyway, it was purchased in the middle of December 2004, and has more than paid for itself by making DVDs, backing up my favorite DVDs (special software in some cases, of course) etc.I have had absolutely NO problems with it.I use name-brand blanks (FujiFilm, Sony, Memorex, etc) CDs and DVDs.Its worked like a top.The only coasters I made were my fault, thanks to tinkering.If you leave the defaults alone, you should be fine.But the drive has capabilities to play with, if you so desire.
I kick it along with a 2ghz Windowz 2000pro machine sporting half a gig of RAM (next order of business, more RAM).
I'd buy another in a heartbeat.No problem.
Note, its not my first Sony Drive, but I've also owned quite a few of drives from various manufacturers (including generic CD burners, etc), and I tend to push things to their limits.If it can break, I'll certainly break it.If I break it, and its my fault, then I don't blame the manufacturer (but it had better be able to do what they say it can).
Questions?feel free to write!
broke@tampabay.rr.com

Sweet Drive
This drive has exceeded my expectations. It is fast, reliable, comes with an excellent software bundle, and is VERY competitively priced.

After reading some other negative reviews, I have a couple of hints. First, use NAME BRAND blank media. You would be amazed at how much of a difference this makes in compatibility. Phillips, Memorex, TDK.... these are the brands you want to go with. Some of the lesser known brands do not write properly and work in fewer TV dvd units. Keep in mind that the quality/features of your TV dvd player may be a factor in whether or not burned dvd's will work at all. Second, if you are having problems burning/verifying a dvd, make sure it is set to 8x speed, as most media available right now is only good up to that speed. If you try to set the speed at 16x you will undoubtably mess up your burn.

So... in other words... buy high quality media, keep your settings where they should be, and have fun using this drive, because it is great!

Does not Read Some CD's On First Try
Pros:
Fast
Burns DVDs Great
Sony

Cons
Doesnt Read some cd's on first insert, have to reinsert cd's then it works. Reads all DVDs perfectly doh. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Now you can make digital archives of your favorite VHS tapes and copy your homemade DVDs to share with friends and family on VHS. Sony's RDR-VX500 DVD recorder/VCR combo saves space while simplifying component hookups. Offering broad format flexibility through DVD+R/+RW and DVD-R/-RW versatility, the deck permits dubbing from VHS to DVD and from DVD to VHS (subject to Macrovision anti-piracy technology in the source media).

In addition, the recorder sports a handy i.Link digital-video interface so you can copy DV/Digital8 camcorder tapes directly to long-lasting recordable DVDs. Other features include progressive-scan output for DVD (480p) for high-quality video reproduction on high-definition and HD-ready TVs, JPEG digital image and MP3 music playback from CD-R/CD-RW, and VCR Plus+ programming for easy navigation and control.

Progressive scanning, referred to as 480p for the number of horizontal lines that compose the video image, creates a picture using twice the scan lines of a conventional DVD picture, giving you higher resolution and sharper images while eliminating nearly all motion artifacts.

... Read more

Features

• Combination DVD recorder/player and VCR with VCR Plus+ electronic program guide to simplify advance recording
• Plays and records DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, and VHS videocassette
• Plays MP3 music and JPEG image CD-R/CD-RW
• i.Link digital-video input for camcorders (DV/D8)
• VHS to DVD and DVD to VHS dubbing ability (subject to Macrovision anti-piracy protection)

Amazon.com Product Description

Store your collection of DVD movies and audio CDs in Sony's DVP-CX985V progressive-scan DVD/SACD player, and they'll just be ready for playback at a moment's notice. The DVP-CX985V multiformat mega-changer stores 400 discs and is compatible with DVD-RW/-R, DVD+RW/+R, SACD (Super Audio CD) multichannel discs, and CD-R/RW discs with CD and MP3 audio.

Other DVD players detect image changes at the scan line level--Sony's Precision Cinema Progressive (PCP) system detects them at the pixel level. The picture is more faithful to the source--whether film or video--because separate, optimized algorithms are used to handle the differing pixel behavior. Separate algorithms are also used to process the moving and still parts of an image, resulting in sharp backgrounds with moving objects that are free from motion artifacts.

The high-speed 108MHz/12-bit video D/A converter employs 4X oversampling for much more effective noise filtering.

In addition to standard 2-channel CD playback, the DVP-CX985V plays 2-channel and multichannel Super Audio CDs. It reads the disc information of all the discs and loads the information into memory so that disc type, titles, and other text information can be displayed on the TV screen.

It has the following video output options (with number of ports): component video (x1), S-Video (x1), composite video (x1), coaxial digital (x1), and optical digital (x1). It also has the following audio output options: analog audio (x1) and 5.1 channel (x1).

Other features include:

• Included remote operates the DVP-CX985V as well as a number of functions on select brands of televisions and receivers; its keys glow in the dark.
• Instant Replay feature enables you to go back 10 seconds to review a scene with a single press of a button.
• TV Virtual Surround feature generates a convincing surround-sound effect using only 2 stereo speakers.
• Dolby Digital and DTS output.

Tech Talk

• SACD: Super Audio CD (SACD) is a high-resolution digital audio format that promises vast sonic improvements over the current audio CD format. SACD discs can be played back on dedicated SACD players or combination SACD/DVD-Video players. Certain SACD discs feature a conventional audio CD layer (hybrid SACDs) which can be played back by any CD player or computer with a CD-ROM drive.
• Progressive scan: Also called sequential scanning, a progressive-scan system displays the entire image--providing all the horizontal lines per frame, rather than every other line--once every 60th of a second. This method reduces flicker and increases stability. Progressive-scan viewing requires a compatible digital TV.
• Component video: Unlike a single video input, component video maintains the video signal as three separate signals through these three jacks. This connection provides optimum quality. To ensure maximum picture quality, use three video-grade cables for the Y, Pb, and Pr connections.

What's in the Box
Sony DVP-CX985V DVD/SACD player/changer, remote control (RM-DX500), 2 AA batteries, RCA cable (57 inches), and operating instructions. ... Read more

Features

• Progressive-scan DVD player, compatible with DVD-RW/-R, DVD+RW/+R, SACD (Super Audio CD), and CD-R/RW discs with CD and MP3 audio
• 400-disc changer holds your entire movie and music library; find your favorites with DiscExplorer onscreen management
• Connections include component, composite, optical, and coaxial
• High-speed 108MHz/12-bit video D/A converter; Dolby Digital and DTS output
• Measures 17 x 7.4 x 21.1 inches (W x H x D)

Reviews (13)

Close, but could be better
I just purchased this unit yesterday, and have almost completed the loading of my media into the player.

First let me mention the things that I do like about it. I like that it holds 400 disks, and how the motor transport transitions from disk to disk. I am pleased with the audio quality from either the Digital Fiber connection or the 6-channel direct connection. I like that it plays so many media formats, and I'm glad it has a keyboard interface. It would take even longer to program without it.

This brings me to one of the worst designed menu systems, and disk recognition systems that I have seen. Only twenty of my sixty two DVD's were automatically recognized and populated in the menu, the rest I had to manually enter into the 16 character space, even though there is another blank line below, you cannot select it to edit the contents to have one line for the Artist and the other for the title. The ratio of recognized CD titles is even worse. It recognized five out of one hundred and seventy eight CD's, one of which was the SACD demo CD of Bob Dylan that comes with the player. It would be better if there were a couple of customizable genre categories as well.

Although the menu system stinks, I am still glad that I made the purchase. It eliminates the need for a media rack in my living room, and I have re-discovered some of my forgotten about CD's while loading them into the player.

Outstanding unit, usable menu
Expectations are everything. My experience with the incompetence of the consumer A/V industry must lower mine. I've heard the complaints about the speed and clumsiness of this unit but I have no major complaints about it. I must admit that I place a higher priority on picture and audio quality, and this unit is awesome on both counts. In addition, the transport is well designed, quiet and well balanced.

For those of you shopping for one of these, make sure you read the dimensions. This sucker is HUGE. It's much deeper than any of my other equipment, including my Sony ES receiver. I had to cut the back out of my A/V cabinet in order for it to fit. Again, no biggie. I'd have bought a new piece of furniture for it.

The time required to set up this unit is nothing when compared with the nightmare of displaying, storing, and handling 350 DVDs. My wife and I spent about three hours inserting the discs and entering the titles, using a keyboard and a spreadsheet of our movies. It took me another hour to divide the DVDs into the four included groups in the Disc Explorer. I divided them into Family, Action, CDM (Comedy Drama Musical) and Other (special features, yoga, documentaries). Seems to work so far for me.

Is the Disc Explorer the greatest thing in the world? Nope, but it works fine if you are too lazy to have a printout of your movies nearby. The best part is that it's not required in order to use the unit, which gives you lots of flexibility. If you are serious about your video system, use DVDlobby and you'll never use Disk Explorer again.

I've heard complaints about the speed of the transport on this unit. Again, expectations are everything. How long does it take to look through the movies in your media cabinet, decide which one you want, open the sometimes bizzarre packaging, load the disc into your player, take the old one out, and put it away?

With this unit, it takes 18 seconds to load and play a disk on the opposite side of the platter. It takes 9 seconds to go from viewing a movie to viewing the Disk Explorer. It takes about 4 minutes to navigate through all 400 disks with the Disk Explorer. It's faster if you don't add pictures to the disc names, and some of the names from the disk manufacturers are just wrong, so you might be better off not letting the unit detect your disks.

The only movie I had a real problem creating a title for was Confessions of a Dangerous Mind since there was only room for "Conf/Dangerous M". I settled for "Dangerous Mind". I know my movies well enough that I don't require an entire paragraph to remind me.

If you are interested in using this unit for SACD, remember that you must have a 5.1 channel input on your receiver. If you have more CDs than DVDs, don't expect this thing to be a good CD player. It isn't, but I've never seen a DVD player that was. Buy a megaCD changer and save yourself the trouble.

Fantastic Player
I liked this player so much I bought another one. This player plays DVDs that were unplayable on my other players (Panasonic, Sony, RCA). I have never tried the disc explorer because other reviewers complain about it and I lose power occasionally. I use a spreadsheet as my DVD guide so I can sort by Title and have a great custom "TV Guide" including episode names on the TV show DVDs. I bought my first CX985V 6 months ago and I have had no problems so far.

Great For DVD's, NOT CD's
I bought this unit to replace 2 Sony 200 cd only disc players. This model was only $125 more than the 400 cd player, so i went with it. The menu funtions are terrible!!!! They are way over complicated and irritating. And if you just wanna play cd's you have to enter th cd# and then wait for the player to recognize the cd before you can select a track. It is a time consuming annoyance. If you want to use the shuffle or program features you have to use the menu on you TV. You can't just push a button and go. This player is a huge disapointment, but i'm too lazy to remove all my cd's and take it back.

Full Tilt Glory
Excellent quality picture and sound..but as echoed in other reviews...do a list (paper)...loaded about 240 dvd's recognized 31..one of which, the store bought movie(not a copy) "Glory" showed up as "Full Tilt Boogie" and because no overwrite capabilities we forever be know as such...no offence to any civil war vets out there... ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

With its small size and quick reaction time, the Sony DSCP73 digital camera will be your constant photographic companion. The affordable DSCP73 offers point-and-shoot simplicity with a variety of features normally found in higher-end models. This 4-megapixel camera features a 3x optical zoom, 4-shot burst mode, conversion lens compatibility, A/V connection to view images on your TV, and a high-resolution movie mode that's limited only by your Memory Stick's capacity. For a step up in price, the Sony DSCP93 adds a 5-megapixel CCD, higher resolution LCD screen, and 9-shot burst mode.

Optics and Resolution
The 1/2.7-inch Super HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD allows more light to pass to each pixel, increasing sensitivity and reducing noise, and provides a 4.1-megapixel effective resolution (2304 x 1728).The Real Imaging Processor offers greater clarity and picture quality as well as improved response time and battery life and decreased shutter lag. The DSCP73 has a 3x optical zoom lens that's combined with a smooth 2x digital zoom for a 6x total.

Movie Mode
Capture video with audio at 30 frames per second (fps) at VGA size 640 x 480;the included 16 MB memory card will store 42 seconds of vide at this setting. Movie length is only limited by the amount of storage you have on hand. The Video Mail mode captures a smaller movie (160 x 112 pixels) that's more suitable to sending to friends and family via e-mail.

More Features
The DSCP73 offers the following additional features to the DSCP41:

• Live Histogram Display: Available in capture and playback, the Live Histogram displays the concentration of pixels at each luminosity value making it easy to evaluate the correct exposure.
• Manual Exposure Mode: Manual Exposure Mode provides extended control with 46-step adjustable Shutter speed (30 Ð 1/1000 sec.), and 2-step Aperture control.
• Conversion Lens Compatibility: Increase your shooting options by adding either telephoto lenses to increase your optical zoom or wide-angle lenses to increase the width of your field of view. You can even add filters for special effects.
• Audio/Video Output: For reviewing images and MPEG movies, the DSCP73 offers an A/V output for convenient connection to a TV or VCR, this makes sharing images with family and friends easy.

Other features include:

• Resolution modes: 2304 x 1728 (4.1MP), 2048 x 1536 (3MP), 1280 x 960 (1MP), 640 x 480 (VGA)
• 1.5-inch, 64K LCD monitor makes framing shots and reviewing pictures easy.
• Selectable Focus Mode: Monitoring AF (Auto Focus) helps you anticipate the action by focusing even before you press the shutter release.
• 5 Area Multi-Point Auto Focus: By evaluating 5 separate focus areas of the frame, SonyÕs Multi-Point AF system can intelligently focus on the subject and avoid mistakenly focusing on the background.
• AF (Auto Focus) Illuminator: Briefly illuminating the subject, in low--or no--light conditions, the AF Illuminator helps establish a positive focus lock.
• Multi-Pattern Measuring: Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern Measuring establishes the optimum exposure, even when highlight and shadow isnÕt centered in the frame.
• Multi-Burst Mode: Captures 16 320 x 240 frames as part of a single 1280 x 960 image which plays back sequentially in the camera (selectable 1/7.5, 1/15, 1/30 second).
• Scene Selection Mode: With 6 Scene Modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions. Choose from one of the following: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Soft Snap, Candle, or Beach.
• Slow Shutter Noise Reduction: During long exposures, Slow Shutter NR captures the scene, and then the CCD noise pattern with a dark frame exposure. By subtracting the two, even long exposures can be clear.
• Pre-Flash Metering: With a momentary pre-flash, the camera illuminates the subject and sets exposure through the lens for accurate flash metering. Adjustable flash level and red-eye reduction ensure great flash shots.
• 4 Shot Burst Mode: Capture up to 4 shots (fine) or 6 shots (standard) at 1.3 frames/sec. even at 4 MP resolution. Perfect for high speed subjects or fast moving action such as sports.

Direct Printing
The Cybershot DSCP73 offers PictBridge functionality, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to a compatible printer--such as the Sony PictureStation DPP-EX50--without a PC or image-editing software. Images can be viewed and selected for printing right on the camera's LCD, with menus for print quantity, date, and index print.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Memory Sticks, and the Cybershot DSCP73 is compatible with Memory Stick Pro media--for storage up to 1 gigabyte. The included 16 MB Memory Stick will store 8 Fine and 14 Standard 4.1-megapixel images. The DSCP73 transfers images to PCs and Macs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection (which is backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports).

Power and Size
The camera is powered by two rechargeable NiMH AA-sized batteries (2100 mAh). The included adapter/charger provides power while you transfer images from the camera to your PC. It measures 4.63 x 2.13 x 1.38 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 7 ounces without Memory Stick or batteries.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony DSCP73 digital camera, 16 MB Memory Stick, two AA-size NiMH rechargeable batteries (NH-AA-DA), battery charger (BC-CS2), A/V and USB cables, wrist strap, and CD-ROM with photo editing software.

Sony Photo Vault
The optional Sony Photo Vault mini CD burner eliminates worry about running out of space on your Memory Stick when travelling. It burns images to mini CD-R's without a PC interface--just connect your camera using a USB cable. The Photo Vault also has a Memory Stick slot (compatible with Memory Stick Pro and Duo) and features a built-in photo album capability to display photos on a television screen using a television's standard AV input. ... Read more

Features

• 4-megapixel sensor (2304 x 1728) captures enough detail to create photo-quality prints up to 11 x 14
• 3x optical zoom plus 2x digital zoom for 6x total
• High-resolution movie mode with sound; A/V output to TV; 4-shot burst; histogram display
• Compatible with Memory Stick and Memory Stick Pro media; includes 16 MB card
• Powered by 2 AA batteries (NiMH rechargeables included); connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (4)

Great for pictures -- not great for videos
We bought this camera as an upgrade from our Canon A40. The big feature for us (after the fabulously quick shutter speed) was the ability to take unlimited videos. (Most other cameras limit the video length because they must buffer the image, whereas Sony cameras can write directly to their memory cards.)

However, we've decided to return the camera. There are 3 movie modes. With a 256 MB memory stick (about $100), you get about 3 minutes of video on the best setting. On the medium setting, you get 10 minutes of video. The third setting does give you 2 hours of video, but is completely unusable. The audio is very poor and the image is blurry and pixelated.

We're disappointed that Sony didn't offer a movie mode in between the terrible 160 mode and the Standard 640 mode. A friend's Sony, now over 4 years old, has such an inbetween setting, and we figured this would be an example of the quality of this Cybershot's lowest setting. Not so!

Great camera
This is our first digital camera and so far we love it. It feels very solid and the pictures are really great. The camera is very easy to use for pictures and for video. I have not used any of the different picture settings but I did read the manual and they seem easy to use.
The camera comes with batteries and a charger but no AC adapter. This is the only reason (no AC adapter) I gave the camera 4 stars instead of 5. I would recommend buying the AC adapter so you don't use the batteries too fast or an extra set of batteries so you always have a charged pair of batteries.

Sony Cybershot DSCP73
My husband & I wanted a good digital camera but did not want to spend a bundle. We own other Sony products and know the products are usually high end. We are pleased again with another Sony product. The camera is a little bulky, but the pictures look wonderful and the capability is amazing. More than enough to keep us non-techies amazed!

pretty cool for what you pay
I just bought the p73 and I am pretty content with it. altough bulkier than the exilims of casio, I like the fast cycle times between shots, which often caused me to loose nice pictures before with my old digital camera. The video is quite good considering it's just mpeg, and good for those moments when you wished you had brought your camcorder. I am using the mem stick pro 256 meg so there is alot of room for short videos as well as pictures. The preflash works pretty well in low light, an added benefit is that it catches the attention of my baby so all our shots have her looking straight at the camera. I havent tried the more advanced features yet, altough I am saving up for a wide angle lens to attach onto this toy. It is a bit heavy for a small cam, but then I realized that it was the battery which was accounting for much of the weight. ... Read more

Product Description

SONY (MVCFD200) Mavica. MVC-FD200 2.0 Megapixel Digital Camera ... Read more

Features

• Autofocus lens with 3x optical/2x digital (6x total) zoom
• Stores images on floppy discs or Memory Sticks (not included)
• Connects with PCs and Macs via USB port or via floppy drive
• Uses proprietary lithium-ion rechargeable battery(included)
• 2-megapixel sensor captures 1,600 x 1,200 images for prints at sizes up to 8 x 10 inches

Reviews (9)

why pay 300? get it for FREE
nice camera that you can get here http://www.cameras4free.com/default.aspx?r=345693 thanks for read

Very good but on limited use
I use this camera for work and it works very well.The only problem I have had with it is after a few months of taking 30 to 40 pictures a day it won't read a disk.I comes up with a formating error.I have had to send it out for repairs twice already.Other then that the picture quality and options are very nice.

Excellent Mavica Camera by Sony
If all you want is a straight forward and simple Digital Camera with Beautiful colors, Great ease in operation and high resolution get this before they will be gone
I got mine after using my older Sony Mavica MVC-FD88 for the last 3 years.
my older mavica costed much more and served me right and it has a 16 x Zoom with 1.3 Mega Pixel and MPEG with sound only on Floppies...
but Sony improve alot with this MVCFD200
First, they got a Floppy Disk Drive that accept all 3.5" disks which is great for uploading to older PC's with no USB etc.
and the new Memory stick with a USB to PC is unreal improvement
not to mention the feature of uploading and downloading between
all these formats!!!
the Memory stick that I use is 128 MB and it lets me take hundreds of high quality photos like no other Digital camera that I tried including "other" cameras with 4 Mega Pixel !!!
this is simply a great camera with some extra features like the MPEG (no sound)and 6x Zoom and Digital effects.
to me, these features are only extras and not importent as I have a Digital Camcorder in order to make high quality movies...
Sony always make the best cameras and that is a fact.

Sony...
Quite heavy but a good one.If you don't have problems carrying it with you then use it!Make sure to buy the Memory Stick because it is much better than relying on a floppy alone.

Some Good Features
I've used the Mavica 7 and 75 for years in my work (real estate). The features most useful were Zoom (10x optical), aperture (1.8 would do low light pictures) and the floppy disk convenience. The major draw back for me was poor printed photos. I thought the 200 was an opportunity to keep the good features and correct the poor resolution and add the alternate storage capability etc. I am not sure why but Sony reduced the zoom to 3x and changed the aperture. Unfortunately I'm returning my 200. ... Read more

Product Description

Capture high-quality digital audio and video with Sony's DCR-TRV280 Digital8 Handycam camcorder. The DCR-TRV280 features Digital8 recording for 3X the color bandwidth of VHS, providing you with stunning video performance. The CCD imager captures clear and detailed images for consistently outstanding image quality. With Sony's NightShot Plus infrared system you can capture natural looking video, even when shooting in low light. Don't let its compact design fool you, the DCR-TRV280 carries great power with the Stamina battery power management system, which allows you to continuously record for up to 12 hours on a single full charge1. Editing and sharing hours of video is easy with the i.LINK DV interface, which allows you to easily connect your camcorder to your TV or PC. Keep Subjects in Sight with 2.5-inch Swivelscreen LCD MonitorGet up Close with 20x Optical and 990x Digital ZoomUSB Streaming for Webcam Utility or video Conference ToolMinimize Shaking with SteadyShot Picture StabilizationRecords Superior Digital Video on Affordabel Hi8 or 8mm Tapes Stepping into the Digital age has never been easier with the DCR-TRV280. Featuring Digital Recording along with SteadyShot Image Stabilization and NightShot Plus Technology. ... Read more

Features

• SteadyShot picture stabilization system
• Go digital. Capture high-quality digital audio and video with Sony's DCR-TRV280 Digital8 Handycam Camcorder
• 1/6-inch CCD imager with 290K effective pixels
• 20x optical zoom lens with 990x digital zoom
• 2.5-inch SwivelScreen LCD display

Reviews (5)

The BEST top bang-per-buck value in digital camcorders!
This is easily the best value DIGITAL camcorder out there today, hands down.'Digital8' is just as good as 'MiniDV' in terms of resolution and picture/audio quality.Why pay more for MiniDV?For under three 'Benjamins', you get reliable digital video and audio quality with over 500 lines of resolution, and a proven medium (Digital8) whose videotapes cost half as much or less than MiniDV tapes.The video quality in low light is also excellent, with a low light switch and feature that works great. And size-wise, the camcorder is not much larger than a MiniDV unit.It is feature-rich and comes with all the accessories you would need, including a charger, battery, lens cap, A/V cable for connection to your TV, a USB cable and software for connection to your PC or Mac.The owner's manual is one of the best i've ever seen, with very intuitive diagrams and easy to operate instructions.And the battery level meter and 'time left' indicator on the LCD view panel is very useful and amazing in it's detail and usefulness.Folks, this is one serious digital camcorder that is available 'for a song'!Great job Sony!!!

A Perfect Family Camera
For under $300. you get a camera with a lot more than anyone would expect.Besides VERY good camcorder recordings, it also takes good snapshots.I've only owned mine a few days, but I'm already wild about it.Unless a person must have professional quality in a camcorder ($3,500+ and maybe a lot more), the DCR-TRV280 is a good choice - it is certainly a good buy.

Great camcorder
My husband and I were looking for a good camcorder that was functional but not too expensive. THIS is it!! For $300 we got a great camcorder that you can also take still shots with. Lots of features and very very easy to use. We have had it about a week, not really used it for lots of videoing, just getting used to it. But the quality of the recordings are great, the light is VERY BRIGHT and it picks up sound good too. We both give it 5 stars. It was just what we were looking for.

Great value camera
I bought this camera for family videos and I wanted the ability to edit on my Apple Powerbook in iMovie.This camcorder is great for that.The video is very good, the tapes are cheaper than MiniDV, and the camera has a solid feel to it.If you want something smaller or more pro, you want to go with MiniDV probably anyway, but for home use and some basic editing and such, this is a great camera, especially for only $300.

Awsome! (for the price)
For $300, THIS IS AWSOME! The + are: 20x zoom, USB connection, Effects, Titles, Lights, Small price, Nightshot plus, Stereo sound. The - are: Low lighting inside without all lights on, Low picture quality without computer editing. You can also play back video on your TV. Hope this review was usefull ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sony updates the rangefinder-style camera for the digital age with the 5-megapixel Cyber-shot DSCW1. Built for photographers who want to capture images through a host of automatic features to help balance light and exposure, the DSCW1 also offers a bevy of manual controls. And once turned on, it focuses and shoots full-resolution images in a little over one-second intervals. The DSCW1 features a 3x optical zoom, Carl Zeiss optics, large 2.5-inch LCD

The DSCW1's super-sized 2.5-inch Hybrid LCD Monitor is much larger than the 1.5-inch displays common to other cameras in its class. (See detail)

Optics and Resolution
The DSCW1 features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar zoom lens, which is specially constructed for very compact cameras, and its design allows for quick autofocusing. It has a 3x optical zoom and 2x digital zoom for a combined 6x zoom.

The 1/1.8-inch Super HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD allows more light to pass to each pixel, increasing sensitivity and reducing noise, and provides a 5.1-megapixel effective resolution (2592 x 1944).The Real Imaging Processor offers greater clarity and picture quality as well as improved response time and battery life and decreased shutter lag.

Movie Mode
Capture video with audio at 30 frames per second (fps) at VGA size 640 x 480;the included 32 MB memory card will store 87 seconds of vide at this setting. Movie length is only limited by the amount of storage you have on hand. The Video Mail mode captures a smaller movie (160 x 112 pixels) that's more suitable to sending to friends and family via e-mail.

About Multi-Pattern Measuring

Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern measuring establishes the optimum exposure value, even in scenes where pronounced highlight and shadow are not centered in the frame.

More Features

• Resolution modes: 2592 x 1944 (5.1MP), 2592 x 1728 (3:2 aspect ratio), 2048 x 1536 (3MP), 1280 x 960 (1MP), and 640 x 480 (VGA)
• 2.5-inch, 123K LCD monitor makes framing shots and reviewing pictures easy.
• Live Histogram Display: Available in capture and playback the Live Histogram displays the concentration of pixels at each luminosity value making it easy to evaluate correct exposure.
• Real Imaging Processor: The innovative Real Imaging Processor in the DSC-P93 not only improves picture quality and clarity but also improves camera response time, decreases shutter lag and improves battery stamina.
• Selectable Focus Mode: Monitoring AF (Auto Focus) helps you anticipate the action by focusing even before you press the shutter release.
• 5 Area Multi-Point Auto Focus: By evaluating 5 separate focus areas of the frame, Sony's Multi-Point AF system can intelligently focus on the subject and avoid mistakenly focusing on the background.
• AF (Auto Focus) Illuminator: Briefly illuminating the subject, in low--or no--light conditions, the AF Illuminator helps establish a positive focus lock.
• Multi-Pattern Measuring: Independently light-metering 49 points of the frame, Multi-Pattern Measuring establishes the optimum exposure, even when highlight and shadow isn't centered in the frame.
• Multi-Burst Mode: Captures 16 320 x 240 frames as part of a single 1280 x 960 image which plays back sequentially in the camera (selectable 1/7.5, 1/15, 1/30 second).
• Manual Exposure Mode: Manual Exposure Mode provides extended control with 46-step adjustable Shutter speed (30 Ð 1/1000 sec.), and 2-step Aperture control.
• Scene Selection Mode: With 6 Scene Modes, parameters can be matched to the shooting conditions. Choose from one of the following: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Soft Snap, Candle, or Beach.
• Slow Shutter Noise Reduction: During long exposures, Slow Shutter NR captures the scene, and then the CCD noise pattern with a dark frame exposure. By subtracting the two, even long exposures can be clear.
• Pre-Flash Metering: With a momentary pre-flash, the camera illuminates the subject and sets exposure through the lens for accurate flash metering. Adjustable flash level and red-eye reduction ensure great flash shots.

About Slow Shutter Noise Reduction

This process captures the scene in two exposures. The second subtracts the noise pattern from the initial shot, resulting in a final beautiful photograph that is virtually noise-free.

Direct Printing
The Cyber-shot DSCW1 offers PictBridge functionality, which enables you to transfer pictures from your digital camera to a compatible printer--such as the Sony PictureStation DPP-EX50--without a PC or image-editing software. Images can be viewed and selected for printing right on the camera's LCD, with menus for print quantity, date, and index print.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Memory Sticks, and the Cyber-shot DSCW1 is compatible with Memory Stick Pro media--for storage up to 1 gigabyte. The included 32 MB Memory Stick will store 12 Fine and 23 Standard 5.1-megapixel images. The DSCPW1 transfers images to PCs and Macs via a speedy USB 2.0 connection (which is backward compatible with USB 1.1 ports).

Power and Size
The camera is powered by two rechargeable NiMH AA-sized batteries (2100 mAh). The included adapter/charger provides power while you transfer images from the camera to your PC. It measures 3.56 x 2.38 x 1.25 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 7 ounces without Memory Stick or batteries.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony DSCW1 digital camera, 32 MB Memory Stick, two AA-size NiMH rechargeable batteries (NH-AA-DA), battery charger (BC-CS2), A/V and USB cables, wrist strap, and CD-ROM with photo editing software.

Sony Photo Vault
The optional Sony Photo Vault mini CD burner eliminates worry about running out of space on your Memory Stick when travelling. It burns images to mini CD-R's without a PC interface--just connect your camera using a USB cable. The Photo Vault also has a Memory Stick slot (compatible with Memory Stick Pro and Duo) and features a built-in photo album capability to display photos on a television screen using a television's standard AV input. ... Read more

Features

• 5-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 13-by-17-inch enlargements
• 3x optical zoom plus 2x digital zoom for 6x total
• Carl Zeiss optics; high-resolution movie mode with sound; large 2.5-inch LCD
• Compatible with Memory Stick and Memory Stick Pro media; includes 32 MB card
• Powered by 2 AA batteries (NiMH rechargeables included); connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (20)

Great 5MP Value
This our third digital camera. Our other cameras are from Canon and Nikon. I was leaning toward the new Canon S60 because we love our other Canon and they both would take the same CompactFlash memory cards. This camera was going to be mine and I wanted 5MP so I could do some cropping of pictures and still keep up the quality when printing in 8 X 10 format. The Canon S60 kept being delayed, so I started looking at alternatives.

The DSCW1 seems designed to compete with the Canon S60. Both are 5 MP, both are compact, both have manual modes which allow you to be creative with your pictures. The Sony pulled ahead with its larger LCD display and its ability to use standard AA batteries. The Canon relies on a propriatory lithium-ion rechargable battery. The Sony comes with AA rechargables, but should they go dead at an inopportune moment, you can pop in any AA batteries to keep you going.

I bought the Sony and have had it for almost a month. The batteries don't seem to last quite as long as our Canon, but I picked up a couple of spare rechargables for less than $10 and just alternate them in the charger. The DSCW1 downloads using USB2 so even though each picture is larger than 2MB each, they download FAST. The picture quality has been great. Indoor low light shots have a bit more blur than I would like, but they didn't come out at all with either of our other cameras. Colors are crisp and true and prints from the pictures (on a Canon i470 printer) are excellent.

One word about the included software. Yuck. It is useful for downloading and for doing a quick view of what you took, but beyond that it is very limited.

Overall, I am very happy with my Sony DSCW1.

Compact and fast, with a big screen.
Great camera.

My last camera was a Sony Mavica CD300. Aside from recording onto a mini CD, its best feature was its large 2.5" screen. It's almost like having a Polaroid instant camera. You take a picture and pass it around. People love looking at pictures on the camera. You can't get that same effect with most digital cameras today.

I bought the W1 because it also has a 2.5" LCD screen, but the camera itself is 1/4 the size. And this screen is actually much clearer than on my previous camera or on the Sony V1 (which this camera replaced).

The picture quality of the photos is decent. (I'm no expert.) Startup is super fast. There's no lens cover, which is convenient. And it uses rechargeable AA batteries. I bought an extra pair for $10. It's also got an optical viewfinder so you can turn off the screen to save power while you're taking photos.

A lot of usability improvements - They finally replaced the directional pad with buttons; the center used to be difficult to press. The on-screen menus are easier to read. A cool new feature is that when you select the camera mode by rotating the dial, it temporarily displays the icons rotating on the screen, so that you don't have to look at the top of the camera.

And even the manual is much improved.

The flash seems a bit small, but I haven't tested it out fully yet. My only real complaint is that it doesn't come with an AC adapter to directly recharge the camera. A cradle would be nice too. You have to take out the batteries and use the included battery recharger. Perhaps this is a better system, but I'm not used to it yet.

Overall I'm thrilled with this camera.

Good pictures, lousy software
I just bought this camera a week ago and it takes excellent pictures (not good for sports or action shots). The problem I have is the movie mode. It's great for being compact and taking short little clips. Unfortunately, it's only compatible with the software that Sony includes. I can't burn to DVD or create a memento CD with editing or music. Which is what the salesperson told me I could do.

Doesn't live up to its 5MP potential
Only one review site mentions this problem (...) but now a lot of users are starting to see it. This camera's noise filtering causes pictures to look 'soft' or in my interpretation - slightly out of focus.

In outdoor scenery shots it isn't very noticeable - the 5MP is able to give you a lot of detail especially in the area of the picture that is not your main subject (background trees, roofs, etc). However in portraits, or pictures of pets, the problem is VERY apparent.

Going from a 1MP to a 2MP camera, the 2MP camera "wow'd" me. Going to this 5.1MP camera, I look at the pictures and say "eh?".

I've tried what other people have suggested - set camera to manual or programmed mode, turned up sharpness, turned down contrast, set autofocus to center only - yet still pets, portrait
shots are smooth. Facial features are ever so slightly blurred - detail is lost in the hair, contrast around the nose and eyes. It's like looking at a flat/matted picture!

Do I think I got a bad one? No. There have been a few other owners on some of the digital camera discussion forums that at first said "No way, this camera is great!" only to come back later and say "Wait, I spoke too soon, there is an issue".

Then there is the poor flash capabilities - not very powerful. Yes, a lot of compact digital cameras suffer from this but this camera seems especially bad. There's a user that took a bunch of indoor photos at their son's birthday part and every one was blurry - not one was printable!

The camera is physically gorgeous. The LCD is HUGE and very nice and clear! The camera is very responsive, fast, WELL built, and a nice size, but the pictures don't live up to the "Carl Zeiss, 5.1MP" advertising!

Don't be fooled by reviews that take pictures of posters and resolution charts - this camera does great with those items. Take a look at their portrait shots of live people and zoom in on the facial features. Compare that with another camera and you'll see the difference. Again, far away shots of scenery looks great. It's when you're doing closeup work of detailed items where the problem shows up.

My W1 is going back this week. I'll bet in a year, Sony will address these problems and THAT camera will be fantastic.

One nice digital camera
I have owned two previous Sony digital cameras, the DSC-S70 and the DSC-V1. This is simpler to operate than those and is ideal for the everyday user.

Highlights - extremely fast start up time and between picture shot time. Large LCD screen. Uses AA batteries. Gorgeous color output, equals or exceeds 35mm.

I would recommend, as a previous reviewer did, to at least set sharpness to the "+" setting. The camera does seem to over process the image a bit in the full auto setting. Also, it seems you have to hold this camera more still than most. The movie function works ok, but not a video camera replacement by any means. Be sure to take advantage of the lighting condition pre-sets, e.g., beach scene, flourescent lighting, etc. ... Read more

Product Description

What can you do with up to 70 hours of battery life and 1GB of built-in memory? How about grind every curb in Cedar Rapids. Mow the lawn... on an 18-hole golf course. Chill out in your bedroom. Sony gives you more time with superior battery life. The Backlit LCD Display provides easy viewing of song data, so you've got more control of your tunes. And, you can pack your player with up to 695 songs. Features MP3 playback and Skip-Proof Design. Ultra Compact Portable Design: Weighing in at less than one ounce, the player fits comfortably in the palm of your hand or can easily be carried in a pocket or purse. 1GB Built-In Memory: Stores up to 695 songs on the device. Up to 70 Hours Battery Life with one âAAAâ Battery: Up to 70 hours of continuous playback on one âAAAâ battery. Plays Back MP3/ATRAC3(R)/ATRAC3plus Audio Formats: For the music connoisseur, use the included software and hardware to store and play back your collection of MP3s. For the digital music novice, Sony's ATRAC(R) format provides higher sound quality with smaller sizes than many competing formats. This enables you to store more music and have longer listening times.Backlit LCD Display: Provides easy viewing of song data and much more. Supports WMA and WAV Audio Formats: The Network Walkman player plays back ATRAC3(R), ATRAC3plus format and MP3 files, and supports WMA and WAV.Easy Toggle Navigation: Navigate through tracks, albums and settings by using the large face of the product and "rock" it back and forth to make a selection. Transf