The Sony DCR-VX2200E MiniDV Digital Camcorder is a standard definition version of the HDR-FX1000E; the highly-anticipated successor to the acclaimed HDR-FX1E. The camera improves upon its predecessor in a variety of areas, including overall performance and range of features. CinemaTone technology enhances both gamma and color, providing exceptional images that exhibit a beautiful film-like aesthetic. At the heart of the camcorder are three 1/3" ClearVid CMOS Exmor sensors, which capture detailed imagery even in extremely low light at both 50i and 25p. Combined with a professional wide-angle lens and a super-high resolution LCD screen, the DCR-VX2200E is ideal for both the enthusiast and seasoned professional who's shooting exclusively in PAL format. Note! Battery is not included, must be purchased separately. Watch Your CinemaTone The DCR-VX2200E features CinemaToneTM technology, which comes in 2 flavors. CinemaTone GammaTM crushes blacks while keeping the mids and highlights detailed, while CinemaTone ColorTM deepens color reproduction for richer hues. Combine the 2 and footage becomes incredibly film-like. CinemaTone Gamma curves can be accessed by the touch of a button. G-orgeous G-Series Lens The DCR-VX2200E makes full use of a low dispersion glass 29.5-590mm G-Lens with a 20x optical zoom and 3 built-in ND filters. The lens comes equipped with a manual focus, iris and zoom, making it the first camera in its class to feature a fully professional lens! Bravo. The lens has a digital extender that increases magnification by 1.5x, making the lens achieve up to 30x digital zoom levels. ClearVID 3CMOS Technology Sony's ClearVID sensors are positioned at a 45 angle. Since each pixel is positioned in this manner, the result is far clearer diagonal lines. Images will appear crisper, without the apparent "jaggies" that often plague video signals. Enhanced Image Processing (EIP) is responsible for processing large amounts of pixel color information, recording 4:2:2 chroma before being thrown to 4:1:1 MiniDV tape. Exmor Inside Low-light situations can sometimes be difficult for cameras of this size due to their relatively small sensors. The result can often be additional noise or image degradation, sometimes sending otherwise usable footage to the proverbial "digital cutting room floor". By incorporating Exmor technology, Sony has once again raised the bar for handheld cameras at this price-point, reducing the lux rating from 3 to 1.5! The DCR-VX2200E's ultra-sensitive 1/3" CMOS Exmor sensors take advantage of technology originally developed for their flagship XDCAM EX camera, the PMW-EX1, delivering an amazing signal-to-noise ratio. 25p Capability In 25p mode, images from the CMOS can be recorded onto tape in the standard 50i MiniDV format. The tape can then be played back or edited using an ordinary MiniDV system. The resultant images resemble the visual motion of film! The camera can also shoot in both standard 50i for richer temporal motion. High Resolution LCD The DCR-VX2200E comes equipped with 1-MegaPixel LCD screen, making it 4 times as clear as the LCD on the HDR-FX1. Record with confidence knowing that what you see is what you will get. Extended Dynamic Range The camera's 30% extension in dynamic range translates into more detail in both highlights and shadows. Increase dynamic range can be very useful when color correcting during post production. Minus Auto Gain Control When shooting in extremely bright-lit areas, the DCR-VX2200E gain control can be knocked down to reduce noise even further. Optical SteadyShot Sony has incorporated the sophisticated Super SteadyShot optical stabilization system on the DCR-VX2200E. This technology helps users achieve glass-smooth shots even when conditions are less than forgiving. Advanced Zebras and Histogram The DCR-VX2200E comes equipped with a histogram and zebra feature. The histogram gives users a visual/numerical reference for making sure the camera is properly color corrected. The Zebra feature highlights over-exposed areas of the frame, giving the operator more control over dynamic range. Focus Assist Users will be delighted by the DCR-VX2200E's focus assist feature; peaking focus assist provides a simple way to ensure that images are in perfect tack-sharp clarity. The process highlights high-contrast areas that represent sharp lines making focus operation incredibly quick and easy. Lightweight Frame The DCR-VX2200E has shaved off a few pounds in comparison to the FX1. Not only will users be able to take this camera almost anywhere but it also produces far less arm strain while using, resulting in longer shoots. Enhanced Button Control The camera allows users to assign important operations to a series of buttons for quick retrieval. The buttons can be selected to do a variety of tasks which can be changed whenever necessary; operations include Zebra levels, AE Shift, and record review. Additionally, the camera has an extra record and zoom control on its handle. Expanded ND Filter Set The DCR-VX2200E features new and improved neutral density filters, which can be very useful while shooting in brightly lit environments. Color Bars The color bar button provides reference for quick calibration on location or in the studio. Shot Transitions In Camera Who needs to edit Make quick, seamless transitions right inside the camera with Sony's Shot Transition control which includes a built-in fader for scene transitions.