I opted for the Sony HDR-PJ530 and I'm really satisfied.
- Its size is compact, so it is convenient to take a trip and you can carry it all day without its weight or its size is a constraint. I use the cover of Sony "LCS-U5" hair cell to the right size (with the base battery). The whole is more stylish.
- In terms of picture quality, I am fully satisfied. The movie in Full-HD and I think the sharpness of the image and put the record really worth what we wanted to shoot. Bonus very smart, basic movie when in Full-HD camcorder records another file to MP4 (lower quality) but still allows to make video editing if one realizes that his PC suffers mount Full-HD videos (moral, we have to change PC).
This option can be disabled if desired.
- The screen that lets you see what you film is really nice to look at and its definition (460 000 pixels) is ideal.
- The x30 optical zoom (and many more digital but with a logical image degradation) can shoot shots that are far apart. But, having known any other device "super zoom" image shaking so she was more watchable if you held the camera in hand.
However, in the tests I read that this camcorder had a very good image stabilization. I confirm, we are not disappointed by the result, the image is sharp and does not even tremble almost movie when walking. By cons, if you look at the objective you will be surprised, that moves and moves with the camera shake (one might think it's broken) and not well and the result is really impressive.
- The camcorder is easy to use and offers an adjustment package for those wishing to leave the automatic mode. The touch screen responds effectively and menus are clear and very easy to use.
- The battery provides a proper autonomy, for those wishing to shoot longer Sony provides battery with greater autonomy (Reference Sony NPFV70 and NPFV100)
- Point bonus, which was not essential in my purchase but I love is the integrated projector at the screen, it advertises picture on a white wall ... like a projector. Very nice to see what was filmed during the day, and the quality is surprising in view of the size of the device. A truly enjoyable.
- Finally, the recording medium is done on standard Micro-SD card.
In conclusion, I think it's an ideal camcorder for "amateurs" who want a camcorder quality in a compact design without spending a fortune.
PS: 31 December, Sony reimburses 50 on the Sony PJ-530, it's always good to take!
