Review of Sony Handycam HDR-5R12

Just a little over a year ago, Sony introduced the very first hard disk drive-based AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) camcorder. After a few iterations of the SR series, we're up to 10.2 megapixels (interpolated) for still images and a whopping 120GB of storage space with a more serious façade of dark grey and glossy black. Resolution technically remains the same, although there has been an improvement in video bit rate due to the new CMOS sensor within.

Improvements in imaging quality abound in this latest iteration of the SR series, with a new 16Mbps bit rate for capturing 1920x 1080i high- definition video. This takes up a considerable amount of space obviously, which explains the 120GB hard drive that records over 14 hours of the highest resolution video. As this much recording time (or quality) isn't required by everyone, less pricey 60 and 40GB models are also available. In our tests, we noticed that video at HQ (High Quality) mode was already impeccable, save for a tinge of interlacing artifacts in fast motion scenes, which is normal in this format, Generally though, these artifacts were only visible when viewed on a larger sized screen. At the highest quality setting, dubbed FH (for Full High Definition, we presume), these artifacts were much less apparent.

Images were also far crisper and more vibrant than the other modes. Low light performance was impressive, even without the included Nightshot mode activated, providing a good amount of exposure compensation with the new Dynamic Range Optimizer. Grain does get apparent in the lowest of lighting conditions so make good use of available light if you want less wasted footage. We have to note that the SR12, like older models, still lacks dedicated shutter speed or aperture settings that will leave advanced users in the lurch.

On to still image quality, which we found to be a good improvement over many of last year's higher end camcorders. While the interpolated megapixel count may seem dubious, it doesn't do any actual harm to image quality, providing clear saturated images that should make for decent 6R prints, In-camera sharpening was still too apparent for our liking, and Sony's Bionz imaging processor does tend to be a little overzealous with reds, although these problems are only apparent with images viewed at their full sizes. What we did find impressive though was how little purple fringing this latest Exmor CMOS processor produced, which is a definite step forward for digital camcorders. Battery life was impressive as well, with the provided NPF H6O variety giving us well over 90 minutes of recording time even with the new 920,600-pixel LCD flipped open.

The SR12 is a great investment with minimal flaws and stellar video quality that shouldn't go obsolete anytime soon.