Sony Handycam DCR-DVD308

Description: The Sony Handycam DCR-DVD308 is a DVD+ RW (8cm), DVD-RW (8 cm), DVD+ R DL (8cm), and DVD-R (8cm)-based, consumer camcorder.Compared to other consumer camcorders on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $450.It ships with Sony picture motion browser software.

Pros: Has a 25x optical zoom.Provides manual focus control, whereas many camcorders have only auto-focus.Weighing a little over a pound without battery or media, this camcorder is reasonably portable.

Cons: None noted, given available product data.

Suitability: Designed for those who want the perks of a DVD-recordable disc but don't mind the compromises.

Value: In general, this camcorder's features are as expected for this price.

Suggestions: For more help selecting the right digital camcorder, visit CNET Reviews' buying guide.

CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.

• Manufacturer: Sony
• Part Number: DCRDVD308

• General

• Product Type Camcorder
• Digital Zoom 200 x
• Optical Sensor Size 1/6"
• Optical Sensor Type Advanced HAD CCD
• Min Illumination 0 lux
• Analog Video Format NTSC
• Digital Video Format MPEG-2
• Special Effects Sepia, Pastel, Monotone, Old Movie
• Image Stabilizer Electronic (Super Steady Shot)
• Digital Scene Transition Black fader, White fader
• Min Shutter Speed 1/4 sec
• Max Shutter Speed 1/4000 sec
• Shooting Modes Digital photo mode
• Shooting Programs Snow, Beach, Candle, Sunset, Sunrise, Fireworks, Landscape, Spotlight, Portrait mode, Sports lesson, Twilight mode
• White Balance Custom, Presets, Automatic
• White Balance Presets Indoor, Outdoor
• Exposure Modes Program, Automatic
• Widescreen Video Capture Yes

• Main Features

• Camcorder Sensor Resolution 1.07 megapixels
• Camcorder Effective Still Resolution 1 megapixels
• Color Support Color
• Still Image Format JPEG
• Remote Control Remote control - Infrared
• TV Tuner None

• Memory / Storage

• Floppy Drive None
• Image Storage 1152 x 864
• Media Type DVD-R (8cm), DVD+RW (8cm), DVD-RW (8 cm), DVD+R DL (8cm)
• Recording Speed HQ, LP, SP

• Lens System

• Type Zoom lens - 2.5 mm - 62.5 mm - F/1.8-3.2
• Focal Length 2.5 mm - 62.5 mm
• Lens Aperture F/1.8-3.2
• Optical Zoom 25 x
• Lens system type Zoom lens
• Min focal length 2.5 mm
• Lens Manufacturer Carl Zeiss
• Max focal length 62.5 mm
• Filter Size 30 mm
• Focus Adjustment Manual, Automatic
• Zoom Adjustment Motorized drive

• Additional Features

• Low Lux / Night Mode Yes
• Digital Still Camera Function Yes
• Additional Features PictBridge support, Accessories hot shoe, Touch-screen control, USB 2.0 compatibility, Progressive shutter system, 5.1 channel surround sound ready
• Remote control Remote control - Infrared
• Software Sony Picture Motion Browser

• Viewfinder

• Viewfinder Type LCD
• Viewfinder Resolution 123,000 pixels
• Image Aspect Ratio (camcorders) 16:9

• Display

• Type LCD display - 2.7 in - Color

• Digital Player (Recorder)

• Type None

• Microphone

• Type Microphone - Built-in

• Connections

• Connector Type Composite video/audio output, USB, Microphone, Remote control
• Expansion Slot(s) Memory Stick Duo

• Audio Input

• Audio input type Microphone
• Microphone type Built-in
• Microphone Operation Mode Surround

• System Requirements for PC Connection

• Operating System Support MS Windows XP, MS Windows 2000

• Miscellaneous

• Cables Included A/V cable, USB cable

• Power

• Power Device Power adapter - External

• Battery

• Supported Battery Sony NP-FH40
• Supported Battery 1 x Li-ion rechargeable battery ( Included )

• Manufacturer Warranty

• Service & Support 1 year warranty
• Service & Support Details Limited warranty - Labor - 90 days, Limited warranty - Parts - 1 year

• Viewfinder / Display

• Display Form Factor Rotating
• Display Format 123,000 pixels
• Viewfinder Color Support Color

• Physical Characteristics

• Width 2.2 in
• Depth 5.2 in
• Height 3.5 in
• Weight 15.5 oz

Sony

Manufacturer profile

• Website: http://www.sonystyle.com
• Address: 16765 W. Bernardo Dr., San Diego, CA. 92127
• Phone: 1-877-865-SONY
• Email: contact@sel.sony.com
• Fax: 941-768-7790