The difference between memory and legend
There are special moments in life, like weddings, graduations, and birthdays, where you definitely want to capture the details. But think about future generations. Details of the big events will be passed down in family history, but the everyday moments will be lost (unless, of course, you're a blogger or keep a meticulous daily journal the old-fashioned way). Consider using your camcorder to give your future grandchildren a peek into the everyday routines of the past. The Sony HDR-CX130 can record all your memories in 1920 x 1080 high definition resolution. The included HDMI port means you can play back your footage directly on your compatible HDTV. You're sure to get the best shot whether you're right next to the action or a safe distance away with the 30x optical zoom. Sony adds Optical Steady Shot image stabilization with Active Mode to make sure that your video stays smooth even when you're using the highest zoom power. A built-in USB cable makes transferring video files directly to your computer or charging the camcorder a snap. And controlling everything is as simple as touching the right icon on the 3.0" LCD viewscreen. With that level of convenience, grabbing the HDR-CX130 and filming the family dinner hour on an average Tuesday evening is so easy. And someday, your descendants will relish the opportunity to see first-hand what life was like back at the turn of the century — and to make fun of your hair and clothes.
Home video takes a leap forward
Just because you're not filming the next Avatar doesn't mean HD is a waste. After all, you watch wacky reality shows in HD, so why should your family videos be less important? When people watch your next home production, are they going to say "Wow!" or will they ask when it was filmed? The 90's are over, so ditch the grainy look. With the Handycam HDR-CX130, you can get video up to Full HD 1920 x 1080, the best video resolution that's commercially available. And since it will play at a 60p framerate, footage from this camera will look much smoother than other Full HD cams. Don't think audio was neglected, though. The zoom microphone adds two-channel Dolby Digital sound to your home production. Get with the times; go HD.
Don't miss out!
If you're a professional videographer, it's important to have a camera that gives you creative control over every aspect of every shot you take. But if you're not under the employ of one S. Spielberg, that kind of control can actually be a hindrance. Monkeying with a plethora of settings gets to be a bother when you're just trying to shoot some footage of the family vacation. While you're adjusting the camera, you're missing out on all the action, and by the time you're ready to roll tape, chances are that the action you wanted to record is over. Instead, you want a camera that's easy to use, automatically adjusting the settings for your shot, so you can capture on the go without missing out. And this Handycam delivers. For starters, it's got an impressive set of pre-configured modes. Simply choose the type of shot you're filming and you're ready to record! But sometimes life happens too fast even for scene modes. That's why the HDR-CX130 comes with an Intelligent Auto mode that can analyze your shot and choose the right settings at a moment's notice. Combine Intelligent Auto with the option to power on when you open the LCD, and you're always ready to capture the action — without missing out on the fun.
Included with purchase
HDR-CX130 camcorder, rechargeable battery pack (NP-FV50), AC adapter (AC-L200), power cord, component A/V cable, USB connection support cable, CD-ROM, operating guide
Loved The Camcorder, but... (October 18, 2011)
| Ease of Use |
|
(5/5.0) |
|---|---|---|
| Value |
|
(5/5.0) |
| Performance |
|
(4/5.0) |
| Overall Rating |
|
(4/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Donna C. - Atascadero, CA
I was so excited to get my very first camcorder and I was really impressed! The features and quality of video was amazing for something so small! The only problem was audio I could barely pick up audio from my subject and unfortunately this model is not compatible with any microphone out there. So, back to Vanns it went and that was super easy and free. I ordered the CX-160 because I can use blue tooth microphones with it. I got a notice that its at the post office, and I'm uber excited!
Comparison Specifications
- Zoom power: 30x optical zoom, 350x digital zoom
- Capture system: 1/4" back-illuminated Exmor CMOS sensor
- View screen: 3.0" Clear Photo LCD touch-screen display
- Inputs/Outputs: Memory Stick PRO Duo/SD/SDHC/SDXC slot, HDMI out, composite video out, component video out, S-video out, USB 2.0 port, mic input
- Stabilization: Optical SteadyShot image stabilization w/Active Mode
- Shooting modes: Auto, Twilight, Sunrise and Sunset, Fireworks, Landscape, Portrait, Spotlight, Beach, Snow
- Low-light performance: min. illumination standard 11 lux (1/60 shutter speed), low 3 lux (1/30 shutter speed)
- Manual controls: manual AF mode
- Still image: 3.3 megapixel JPEG
Additional Specifications
- Image processor: BIONZ
- HD video format: MPEG4-AVC/H.264 (AVCHD)
- Standard video format: MPEG2-PS
- Microphone/speaker: built-in zoom microphone, monoaural speaker
- 2-step mic level control
- Wind noise reduction and auto wind position
- Lens type: G Lens
- Aperture: F1.8-F3.4
- Focal length: movie mode 29.8mm -894mm (16:9), 36.5mm -1095mm (4:3), photo mode 32.5mm 0 975mm (16:9), 29.8mm - 894mm (4:3)
- Focal distance: f=2.1mm - 63mm
Manufacturer Specifications
- Focus system: Contrast AF
- Exposure settings: Auto, Flexible spot (touch panel)
- Self-timer
- S/S and zoom button on LCD
- Still image playback options: slide show
- Video playback options: Highlight Playback, Highlight Playback Save and Share, Highlight Scenario, Highlight BGM
- One-touch disc burn
- Face detection
- Smile Shutter: dual capture / always on / off
- Intelligent auto: Portrait, Baby, Walk, Tripod, Backlight, Landscape, Spotlight, Twilight, Macro, Low Light
Dimensional Specifications
- Dimensions: approx. 2.13" W x 2.25" H x 4.88" D
- Weight: approx. 8.8oz
Sony HDR-CX130 Warranty Details
1-year limited parts and labor warranty
