New DVD Handycams from Sony

Sony delivers its annual update for consumer DVD camcorders with four new models: the Handycam DCR-DVD608, DVD708, DVD808, and DVD908. These compact DVD camcorders replace the current generation and run the gamut from the inexpensive DVD608 to the full-featured DVD908.

	Sony DCR-DVD908

While most of these upgrades seem minor, the new DVD Handycams offer an important new feature: dual-layer support. These camcorders can now write to both dual layer DVD+-R/RW, offering twice as much recording time on a single disc.

The DVD608 and DVD708 also offer newer, more powerful lenses than their predecessors. Aside from the 40X optical zoom lens, the DVD608 is identical to the DVD605, sharing its 680,000-pixel sensor, 2.5-inch touchscreen, and features. Similarly, the DVD708 is nearly identical to the DVD705, except for its new 25X zoom.

While the DVD808 and DVD908 share the same lenses and other features as the DVD805 and DVD905, they both offer Sony's dual-record feature, which lets users shoot still photos while they record video. The still images are only 2.2 megapixels on the DVD905 and 1.5 megapixels on the DVD805, but it's still a nice feature.

The Sony Handycam DVD608 and DVD708 ship in February 2007 and will retail for US$450 and US$550, respectively.