Product Description

Use the Sanyo VPC-HD1A Xacti Digital Movie Recorder to capture those precious moments and perfect events -- te ones you'll never want to forget. Record your own 720p MPEG-4 movies, with full 60fps fluid motion VGA-Size recording -- the best digital video you can get. With its Digital Image Stabilizer, you'll get shake-free video. You'll even record better audio with the Sanyo's built-in digital stereo recording. Choose from multiple Sequential Shooting modes, up to 10 photos at 5fps. Store all your digital video and photos to an SDHC memory card. The pop-up flash ensures a detailed, beautiful picture in low light or nighttime conditions. Digital Image Stabilizer (video only, not for stills) Exposure controls - Program AE, Shutter priority, Aperture priority, Manual Sequential Shooting 6 photos at 5 fps ([5M] mode), 10 photos at 5 fps ([1.2M] mode) Scene Select Modes - Auto, Sports, Portrait, Night View, Landscape, Fireworks, Lamp, Cosmetic, Monochrome, Sepia 2/10 sec. self-timer Full auto TTL white balance Audio microphone Records to SD memory card, up to 4GB Interface AV output - component video/composite video/S-Video, NTSC/PAL, stereo audio USB 2.0 in high-speed mode Built-in monaural speakers (L/R mixed output) Interfaces with docking station or connecting adaptor Multi-Language Display supports 11 languages - Japanese, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Russian, Korean, Traditional and Simplified Chinese Power Source - Lithium-ion battery (DB-L40, included - 1200 mA), AC adaptor (VAR-G8, included) Battery life with stills - CIPA standard 170 images Battery life - video - 75 min. Battery life - playback - 220 min. Unit Dimensions(WxHxD) - 80 x 119 x 36 mm (excluding protrusions) Weight - Approx. 235 g (including battery and SD card)

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #3707 in Camera & Photo
• Brand: Sanyo
• Model: VPC-HD1A
• Dimensions: 4.00 pounds
• Display size: 2.2

Features

• Digital media camera combines the functionality of a digital camera with a digital camcorder
• Simultaneously records high-definition digital video and 5.1-megapixel digital still images
• Clear, 2.2-inch LCD monitor
• Highly-efficient 10x optical zoom lens and 10x digital zoom
• Built-in image stabilization; high-quality digital stereo recording

Manufacturer Description
Manufacturer Description The Sanyo VPC-HD1a Xacti digital media camera with 10x optical zoom is a high-definition compact digital media device that combines the functionality of a digital camera and a digital camcorder. Different than a standard digital camera that shoots short video clips, the VPC-HD1a offers advanced, next-generation video performance and high-quality stills in one small, lightweight camera.

This powerful little device is designed to record both 720-pixel high-definition video and snap 5.1-megapixel digital still images, all of which are handily stored to a standard SD flash memory card. The high-precision LSI (large-scale integration) for image processing is the real "muscle" behind the Xacti HD1a's ability to record high-definition video. This powerful "high-definition engine" processes a massive number of calculations in a short period of time and enables the HD1a's high-definition 720p processing, real-time MPEG-4 compression, and noise reduction.

Xacti VPC-HD1a Highlights

1280 x 720 progressive HD video scanning Thanks to highly efficient MPEG-4 technology, the HD1a is able to create high-definition 720p (1280 x 720 pixels) videos at 30 frames per second. That’s up to three times more pixels than standard conventional video cameras . These are richly detailed images that will display beautifully on any big screen TV.

Advanced MPEG-4 technology The HD1a features Sanyo's proprietary high-definition engine to execute a vast number of calculations in a short period of time. This high-definition engine enables the Xacti HD1a's advanced image processing functions such as real-time MPEG-4 compression, noise reduction and high-definition processing. Recording in the global multimedia standard MPEG-4 delivers exceptional video clarity and detail in an unbelievably portable configuration. What's more, because MPEG-4 is exceptionally efficient in the way it records digital information, higher quality videos and stills can be saved in smaller files. Super-fast 9Mbs frame rate The Sanyo HD1a high-definition digital media camera features an accelerated frame rate in the HD mode that is more than four times faster than earlier digital cameras. Transmitting data at 9 megabits per seconds ensures that camera and subject motion are smooth and natural, without the image lag or distortion that might occur in slower-responding systems.

Super-fast 9Mbs frame rate The Sanyo HD1a high-definition digital media camera features an accelerated frame rate in the HD mode that is more than four times faster than earlier digital cameras. Transmitting data at 9 megabits per seconds ensures that camera and subject motion are smooth and natural, without the image lag or distortion that might occur in slower-responding systems.

2.2-inch LCD screen The HD1a features an incredibly clear 2.2-inch, Sanyo-developed Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) with 210,000 total pixels. The display flips out from the camera and rotates up to 285 degrees on an axis that allows you to take great video or still images from otherwise-difficult-to-view positions.

5.36-megapixel CCD image sensor Inside the HD1a high-definition digital media camera is an advanced 5.36-megapixel (total) CCD image sensor to capture high-definition videos (at a very smooth and natural 30 fps!), with full-range stereo sound. Using a 2GB SD memory card (optional) the HD1a can record over 42 minutes of high-definition video, up to two hours of standard-definition video or up to 1190 five-megapixel digital still images.

Record to standard SD memory cards The HD1a can record up to 21 minutes of 720p high-definition video per gigabyte on a standard SD card. Alternately, the camera allows you to record in Standard Definition (640 x 480 resolution) for up to one hour per gigabyte. If you're looking to shoot home videos of the kids carving pumpkins or a dance recital, you can easily store hours of video footage using the standard definition setting. If recording in high definition is your goal, then change the settings and get 720p high definition video.

Switching between HD and SD modes Switching from standard definition to high definition is a breeze; you simply press the "HD/Norm" button located on the side of the camera body. Additionally, in the menu options, you can choose from six different video resolution modes (and six different resolution levels for your still photos!), depending on how your images will be used.

Record specifically for your personal media player The HD1a has a new recording mode designed specifically to capture video destined for the iPod video or other MPEG4 capable media players. Shooting in the new Web-SHQ mode, you videos will be captured at 320 x 240 pixels at 30 frames-per-second – perfect for some of the most popular personal media players available.

In-camera editing and playback With the Sanyo Xacti HD1a’s 9-image display function, users can quickly search for specific images or videos. And, with the slideshow feature, images can be played back continuously. The HD1a can also edit clips. Clips can be cut in user-selected points and spliced, all from the camera itself. Unwanted images can be easily deleted, freeing up memory card capacity.

Manually adjust and monitor your settings

Versatile manual mode enables advanced-control shooting The following settings can be manually adjusted according to the shooting situation: Manual focus adjustment (22 settings); aperture adjustment (5 stops); exposure compensation (1.8 EV, 0.3 EV steps); shutter speed (16 settings); ND filter On/Off; and image-quality adjustment (for sharpness and color saturation).

16:9 still shooting With the new 3.8M / 16:9 shooting mode, you can display both your stills and videos on your full 16:9 television screen.

Capture still and high-definition movie images simultaneously The Xacti HD1a enables simultaneous shooting of 5.1-megapixel still images and HD (1280 x 720-pixel) movie clips, with a simple press of the shutter button during the shooting of a movie clip. Users will never need to miss another precious photo opportunity. (Depending on the mode used to take still images, simultaneous video clip shooting may be interrupted. While shooting video clips, using the digital image stabilizer may change the angle of view for still images.)

High-quality digital stereo recording The Xacti HD1a's 48 kHz, 16-bit, 2-channel sound for AAC-LC (MPEG-4 Audio) provides a sense of reality to match the realism of those impressive high-definition movies. And not only is it able to reduce noise caused by wind during shooting, the Xacti HD1a also features a dedicated terminal to which an external microphone can be attached.

Built-in image stabilization High-definition can't hide shaky or erratic camera shaking. That's why Sanyo's HD1a comes with a sophisticated image stabilizer. Using a proprietary Sanyo algorithm, the HD1a automatically compensates for distracting up-and-down or side-to-side camera movement, keeping your subject steady and easy to follow. It accurately distinguishes between unintentional camera shake and deliberate camera movement. This handy feature operates in both wide-angle and telephoto modes, giving every shot a solid, professional-looking feel.

Sleek, ergonomic design On or off, the HD1a is a true work of art. Ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand, all video and still functions can be easily accessed with the thumb of the hand used to hold the camera. Aside from making everything much simpler and easier to use, this 'one thumb' interface lets you enjoy-and be a part of-each precious moment you record.

Highly-efficient 10x optical zoom The HD1a digital media camera features a highly efficient 10x optical zoom with a bright maximum aperture of f/3.5. Consisting of nine groups and twelve total lenses with a built-in neutral density filter, the HD1a's lens provides a fantastic field-of-view with a 38-380 mm range (35 mm equivalent). Combined with the 10x digital zoom, the HD1a provides up to 100x zooming capability.

The docking station makes the HD1A easy to connect and charge

Convenient docking station One of the more frustrating aspects of working with any digital media camera is juggling all the wires and connections necessary when you want to use it with external components for viewing or to download files. Sanyo's HD1a streamlines the whole process with an innovative docking station that provides an instant USB/AV (component, composite or S-video) connection to a TV or PC. The HD1a even recharges its internal battery when nested in the docking station.

Easy connection to TV, VCR, DVD recorder or computer The Xacti HD1a enables easy playback of recorded high-definition images directly on a TV screen. Connect the HD1a to a VCR or DVD Recorder to back-up copies of recorded content. Still images and video clips on the Xacti HD1a are played back continuously and in chronological order. Along with MPEG-4 digital recording, the Xacti HD1a offers convenient connection to a PC. With simple drag-and-drop operation, it's easy to save recorded video clips and still images onto a computer's hard disk for emailing, editing or archiving. The HD1a also comes with a remote controller to operate the camera at a distance during playback.

Super-fast start up Reduce your chance of missing the moment. The Xacti HD1a high-definition media camera is designed for super fast start-up and shooting. With the tapeless design, the HD1a eliminates the need to queue up a tape deck allowing the HD1a to begin shooting in as little as 1.7 seconds! When the HD1a is powered on, closing the LCD display puts the HD1a in standby mode. Simply open the display and the HD1a automatically powers up and can begin immediately recording in as little as 1.7 seconds.

Customer Reviews

It is what it is
Yes, technically this is a HiDef camcorder. No, its video output is not on par with traditional HDV camcorders such as those from Sony, Canon, etc. But, it is important to understand that this is a hybrid device with a unique feature set and good performance with a cost point that is about half of what a low-end HDV camcorder would cost. The video quality (in HD mode) is superior to regular DV camcorders and the stills are better than my 5-year old Sony 4MP camera. If I'm going to shoot critical production video or capture stills for color-separated print work, I going to use the proper tools. But, I'm not going to haul pro gear to a high school soccer game or a family BBQ. I can throw this thing into my pocket, shoot for hours and have fun doing it. For me, the unique packaging, versatile operation and efficient battery life means I will shoot more memories. Sometimes, that's more important than the compression scheme or low-light performance. Highly recommended.

The best camera in the world is useless if you don't have it with you...
The HD1 is a wonderful, amazing camera. And it is small enough that you can always have it with you -- I've carried mine for months in my front pants pocket in its protective case, and been able to capture family and work stills and video that would otherwise have been lost. Even if the quality were not up to par, I would have something instead of nothing. But the quality is great! I'll expand on the quality below.

This camera is genuinely high definition, more than three times the resolution of NTSC. This is best shown by comparing a DV image captured with firewire (no NTSC modulation artifacts) on a computer monitor, to the HD1 image transferred from its SD card. Notice that this comparison should favor the DV -- but instead, it makes the increased resolution of the HD1 clear.

HD televisons and monitors are already commonplace, and video captured at less than HD quality will not be as highly valued (like 8mm, good for historical content). Capturing now in HD preserves the value of your video. And this camera fits in your pocket! My bet is anyone who thinks the video from this camera is not significantly better than DV is looking at its output downconverted to letterboxed NTSC, probably on an old TV.

The HD1 records in 720p30 format for an hour on a 4GB sd card (about $70). There is no transport noise picked up by the on-board microphones, as there is no tape transport! Even lens and finger noises are attenuated by the intelligent placement of the microphones on the back of the fold-out screen, where unlike other cameras, they are pointed at the subject! It also has an external microphone jack, missing in other cameras.

Once the camera is turned on, folding the viewfinder puts it in standby mode with no apparent impact on battery life. This way, the camera is ready to go in a couple of seconds after the viewfinder is opened. Mine stays in standby, sometimes for days between uses. Battery life is very good (but keep a charged spare with you, just like you keep a second SD memory card).

The still shots from this camera are as good as or better than most dedicated still cameras. I would rate it just below the Sony DSC-T7. However, the HD1 has a 10x optical zoom, which reduces the need for cropping, thereby preserving resolution. Look at the stills and video from the HD1 on steves-[...] (different Steve), which is a blowaway excellent web site for comparing cameras.

The output of the HD1 is not as clean as the output from the Sony HC3 or the Canon HV10 HDV comcorders, both of which capture at a higher resolution. Ironically both use CMOS sensors which have historically been much noisier than CCDs like the HD1's. I suspect that this is due to better post capture processing, so I'm eager to try something like Noise Ninja or NeatImage on the HD1 output. However, as is, it is easy to mix the video from all three using Vegas Video (and I'm sure other editors), especially when the HDV cameras have been used for tripod shots and the HD1 for handheld, more casual shots. Of course, the HV10 and HC3 each cost about twice the HD1, and as wonderfully compact as they are, neither fits in your pocket.

The program Jet Audio [...] is the best I've found for playing the MPEG-4 video directly from the HD1 SD card on a PC. Even the free version does a great job.

Two other general purpose digital imaging notes: Always make two copies of your image files on different media before erasing the original! And rent some Internet space from a web host somewhere across the country (or world) and copy your image files to a non-public area on your web server space. This costs as little as $6 / month for 150 GB or so somewhere in a secured, backed up facility. And you can still use the public part of the space to create a web site. If there is a tornado, hurricane, earthquake, fire, etc. your "irreplacable family photos" (including any old ones you've scanned or reshot on your digital camera and uploaded) will still be safe. I understand at this point there are folks offering this sort of a service directly, although typically at a higher cost.

Another review mentions the "drawback" of the video freezing briefly when a still is captured while shooting video. On the other hand, this camera in video mode is shooting 30 1MP stills each second! Take your pick and always get the right moment.

Did I mention that the HD1 is a genuine High Definition video camera / recorder that fits in your pocket so you can always have it with you? What an outrageous step forward! I hope you like yours and find it as useful as I do mine.

Aloha,
Steve

Best camera for the price, but beware of some problems
This is the best HD camera for the price. It's the lightest HD camera of any kind. The quality is equivalent to professional SD cameras from 10 years ago if you're careful. You can get more resolution, more features, and more weight, for more money. It depends on how much you want to spend and how much excercise you want.

Now the bad news. You have to be careful to get the best quality from it. It has to be tripod mounted. You must keep ISO at 50 or 100. Keep the shutter speed below 1/100 or it produces very grainy images. Lower shutter speed seems to enable noise reduction.

It experiences blooming when shooting bright objects or the Sun. Don't bother using the still picture support. Get a digital SLR for still pictures.

The lens is cockeyed. You have to angle your tripod down to shoot level and you can't use the docking station for shooting. It won't stand up on its own without a tripod because it's top heavy.

The tripod mount occupies the same space as the power connector. You have to remove it from the tripod to run it on AC and download movies off it.

The tripod mount is plastic. Sooner or later it's going to strip. Be prepared to fabricate an alternate tripod mount for it and glue it on or try the restripping compound at OSH.

The biggest problem is there's no exposure lock function and no lightmeter function. The settings it says it's using in auto exposure are not correct, and it only applies manual exposure settings during recording.

The only way to lock exposure is to try different settings in manual mode and record test clips.

For auto exposure, keep it in "measure multi". The spot modes don't work.

For focusing, keep it in 5 point auto focus. The spot focusing doesn't work and the screen is too small for manual focusing. Locking the focus tends to lock it just out of focus most of the time.