Typical price: £720
What is it: 3-megapixel camcorder with 10x optical zoom
What we think: The DCR-DVD403 is the first DVD camcorder we've seen that doesn't force you to compromise on features or quality -- much
What you need to know
Reviewed on: 29 July 2005
Tags: Sony, Sony Handycam DCR-DVD403, PCs, zoom range, viewfinder
We like:
Very good video quality; Dolby Digital 5.1 surround-sound recording; responsive; convenient storage media; decent stills
We don't like:
Slightly soft video; DVD format isn't as well supported as MiniDV for editing; no video light; won't work with the Mac; can't autodetect aspect ratio during playback
You might also need:
Lots of media
CNET UK judgement:
The DCR-DVD403 is the first DVD camcorder we've seen that doesn't force you to compromise on features or quality -- much
Full review:
The Sony Handycam DCR-DVD403 leaves its underachieving predecessors in the dust, offering superior video quality, improved performance, above-average photos and a no-compromise feature set. With its 3-megapixel CCD (2 megapixels used for video) and Dolby 5.1 surround recording, the DVD403 is a healthy competitor to MiniDV cameras in its price range, and it tosses in straight-to-player convenience to boot. Continue Reading...
Sony Handycam DCR-DVD403 History
30 Jan 2006 in Reviews
VHS is dead, long live the DVD. If you loved the convenience of your old VHS camcorder, then you'll find these new DVD-based ones equally appealing. All these camcorders record straight to a half-sized DVD, burning footage in real-time. Once you're done recording, pop the disc out and place in it your home DVD player and you can watch the footage back in glorious colour
Latest user reviews
Do you own this product? What do you think of it?
Tell us what you think
Can't find the product you're looking for? Want to suggest a product for review?
Special Offers from our Sponsors
Latest Camcorder Reviews
Sony Handycam DCR-SX30E
Offers a good range of features for the price, but its failure to shoot HD video limits its longevity
Samsung HMX-H106SP
Weak performance and lacklustre video quality make it hard to recommend this camcorder
on Camcorders
Sony Mobile HD Snap Camera: Webbie takes on Flip in the UK
The Sony PM1 Mobile HD Snap -- previously known as the Webbie -- is heading for British shores to challenge Flip's dominance of the mini-camcorder market
More:
