I was able to test a Sony HDR-PJ780 Camcorder comparison with a Canon LEGRIA HF G25 and Panasonic HC-X929 camcorder. The Sony camcorder with up to 1920 × 1080 / 50p 28 Mbit / s record. The colors appear on a calibrated monitor balanced and natural, especially skin tones. Sharpness and image quality are very good, even under poor lighting conditions. ME is the picture quality better than the other two tested camcorder at the Sony camcorder. From the Mathildenhöhe in Darmstadt I could on the spire of about 10 km from the Bismarck tower on the Ludwigshöhe clearly see the flag with the German colors only on the recording of the Sony camcorder. The max. Focal length is similar for all tested camcorder. Furthermore, I could see the X-Rite ColorChecker no significant deficiencies in the color reproduction. Operation of the Sony HDR-PJ780 is very simple. Features like touch focus and / or Touch Exposure facilitate the rapid adjustment of the image. Moreover, with the small dial next to the lens-definable parameters, such as exposure (+ - 1 AE), etc. is rapidly changing, focus, iris. I do not consider it a disadvantage that the camera can not be controlled completely manually, as a camcorder will be used primarily for dynamic shooting moving objects and changing light conditions. Modern DSLRs with video capability and a large sensor provide for static and scheduled recordings, however, more control are rather unsuitable for dynamic shots. The Image Stabilizer of the Sony HDR-PJ780 with fully movable suspended optics and sensor unit allows Kamer trips from the source in a quality otherwise only with additional equipment (eg Glidecam) are possible. The image stabilizer is much better than in the two competitors. At the projector (854 x 480 pixels, 35 lumen) in the display lid rejoice my children. For control purposes and for instant sharing of images with others, the projector is very good, as opposed to the small screen. Even at 1 m in the image can be easily darkened rooms, the picture is still very good. The slightly decoupled 5.1 surround microphone with fur as a windbreak provides already in automatic mode very good results in contrast to the tested competitors without much noise. The Sony camcorder has, unlike the two other camcorder via IR Night Scene mode, GPS and video LED (IR and visible). About a flash feature both the Panasonic and the Sony camcorder. Moreover, the Sony camcorder has a built-in USB 2.0 cable to transfer data and recharge the battery. an IR remote control supplied - as a printed manual (as opposed to the other two devices). With the optional NP-FV100 Sony battery usage time is approximately 5:20.
The positive overall impression is diminished by the new recessed accessory shoe, the one with the most accessories Sony is currently incompatible without an adapter. An adapter is not included. Furthermore, a LANC remote control only be connected via an adapter (I use the Manfrotto LANC MVR901ECLA FB on a Manfrotto 595B Fig Rig, for connecting the FB are to the camcorder 2 adapters for about 50 euros required). In addition, wireless network must be upgraded via a module.
Conclusion: I am using the Sony camcorder very satisfied due to the excellent image quality and stabilizer and will keep him despite the relatively high price.