Sony has announced the launch of its new Sony HDR-CX500V and HDR-CX520V flash-memory-based HD Handycam camcorders, which able to capture full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) video and up to 12-megapixel digital photos, featuring 60p output that can automatically converts content to 60 progressive frames per second while connected to a compatible HDTV.

Sony HDR-CX500V

The Sony HDR-CX520V and HDR-CX500V differ only by their internal flash memory capacity, with HDR-CX520V sports 64GB flash memory, while HDR-CX500V includes 32GB memory. Both of them can expand their memory capacity thanks to optional Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX media.

Impressive highlights of Sony HDR-CX500V and Sony HDR-CX520V:

  • 60p output aimed for optimal playback on compatible HDTV
  • Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode allows a moveable lens element to shift with greater range of motion during camera shake
  • 3-Way Shake Canceling reduces hand shake in 3 directions
  • Sony’s powerful BIONZ imaging processor adds Face Touch function to allow users choosing a person to be prioritized by touching a detected face on the 3-inch wide touch panel LCD
  • Smile Shutter will be activate automatically once Face Touch function is activated
  • Back-illuminated ‘Exmor R’ CMOS sensor provides stunning low light performance
  • Sophisticated G lens (12X optical zoom) fuses advanced optics and low dispersion aspheric glass elements for accurate color reproduction and sharp, detailed images
  • 6 blade aperture produces circular “bokeh” defocus effects for creative shooting possibilities
  • Integrated GPS antenna and NAVTEQ digital maps for geo-tagging
  • Built-in zoom microphone with Dolby Digital 5.1-channel surround sound, and GPS antenna and NAVTEQ digital maps for geo-tagging
  • In-camcorder downconverting from AVCHD to MPEG-2, allowing for simple DVD creation with DVDirect Express
  • Instant power-on, and advanced user interface for scroll searching all menu items

“These models combine the best in digital imaging technology, strengthening Sony’s industry leadership and meeting demand for both quality camcorders and HD video,” said Kelly Davis, director of the camcorder business, Sony Electronics. “Expanding our lineup to include Handycam camcorders with large capacity embedded flash memory allows us to offer consumers flexible recording solutions concentrated in a very portable, compact body.”

The new Sony HDR-CX500V and HDR-CX520V full HD Handycam camcorders that include Picture Motion Browser software for easily viewing, editing, organizing as well as uploading images to most social networking sites are scheduled to hit the market in September 2009 for around $1,100 and $1,300, respectively.