Reviews for the Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder

Sony’s HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder features 1920 x 1080 high definition video recording, a 3.2-in wide touch panel LCD screen, a back illuminated sensor, a 12.1 megapixel still image capture, and more!

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Video

* Format : HD: MPEG4 AVC/H.264; SD: MPEG2
* Video Signal : HD: 1920 x 1080/60i; SD: NTSC color, EIA standards

Weights and Measurements

* Dimensions (Approx.) : 2 7/8 x 3 x 5 1/2 inch (71 x 75 x 137mm)
* Weight (Approx.) : w/o battery: 1lb 1oz (510g), w battery 1lb 4oz (590g

Hardware

* Assignable Dial : Yes
* Light/Flash : Yes
* Manual / Auto Lens Cover : Auto
* Memory Stick® slot : Memory Stick® PRO Duo Media1
* S/S & Zoom button on LCD : Yes
* Viewfinder : Wide (color 124k)

General

* Imaging Device : 1/2.88″ Exmor R CMOS sensor
* Pixel Gross : 6631K
* Processor : BIONZ image processor
* Recording Media : 240GB Non-Removeable Hard Disk Drive Memory Stick® PRO Duo Media (Sold Separately)
* Recording and Playback Times : 240GB HDD: High Definition: FH = up to 1750 min., HQ = up to 3560 min. SP = up to 4330 min., LP = up to 5770 min. Standard Definition: HQ = up to 3560 min., SP = up to 5270 min., LP = up to 10100 min. When using 16GB Memory Stick® PRO Duo Media (sold separately): High Definition: FH = up to 110 min., HQ = up to 230 min. SP = up to 280 min., LP = up to 375 min. Standard Definition: HQ = up to 230 min., SP = up to 340 min., LP = up to 655 min.
* Still Actual : 4500K Pixels (16:9), 6000K Pixels (4:3)
* Still Picture Resolution : 12 megapixel
* Video Actual : 4150K Pixels (16:9), 3110K Pixels (4:3)
* Video Resolution : 1920 x 1080

Power

* Battery Type : InfoLITHIUM® with AccuPower Meter System (NP-FH60)
* Power Consumption : 4.4W
* Power Requirements : 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)

Video Features

* PhotoTV HD : Yes

Audio

* Microphone : Built-in Zoom Microphone
* Recording Format : Dolby® Digital 5.1

Service and Warranty Information

* Limited Warranty Term : Limited Warranty — 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor

Convenience

* Accessory Shoe : Yes (Active Interface Shoe)
* Dual Record : 8.3 megapixel
* Face Detection : Yes
* Hybrid : Yes
* Memory Stick® PRO Media Compatibility : Memory Stick® PRO Duo Media (Sold Separately)
* Quick On : Power On by LCD
* Smile Shutter : Yes
* Still Image Mode(s) : JPEG

Convenience Features

* BRAVIA® Sync : Yes
* Dynamic Range Optimizer : Yes
* Easy Operation : Yes
* Face Index : Yes
* Fader Effect(s) : Black, White
* Film Roll Index : Yes
* Low Light Capability : NightShot
* Multiple Language Display : Yes
* Photo Capture from Movie : Yes
* Scene Mode(s) : Auto, Twilight, Sunrise & Sunset, Fireworks, Landscape, Portrait, Spotlight, Beach, Snow
* Slide Show Mode : Yes
* SteadyShot® Image Stabilization : Optical SteadyShot image stabilization w/ Active mode
* White Balance : Auto / outdoor / indoor / Onepush (Touch Panel)
* x.v.Color : Yes

Optics/Lens

* 35mm Equivalent : 43 – 516mm (16:9), 52 – 624mm (4:3)
* Aperture : F1.8-3.4
* Digital Zoom : 150x
* Exposure : Yes (Touch Panel)
* Filter Diameter : 37mm
* Focal Distance : 5.5 – 66.0mm
* Focus : Full range Auto / Manual (Touch Panel)
* Lens Type : G Lens
* Minimum Illumination : STD, 11 lux (1/60 Shutter Speed); LOW LUX, 3 lux (Auto Slow Shutter ON, 1/30 Shutter Speed)
* Optical Zoom : 12x
* Resolution : 12 megapixel
* Shutter Speed : Scene Selection, 1/8-1/800; STD, 1/60-1/800; LOW LUX, 1/30-1/800;
* Smooth Slow Rec., 1/240-1/1000

Display

* LCD Screen : 3.2″ wide touch panel3 LCD display (921k pixels)

Inputs and Outputs

* Active Interface Shoe : Yes
* Analog Audio/Video Output(s) : Included (via A/V Remote Terminal)
* Audio/Video Remote Terminal : Video / S Video / Audio / Component Out / Remote
* Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s) : Supplied (via A/V Remote jack)
* Digital Audio/Video Output(s) : HDMI
* HDMI Connection Output(s) : Yes (mini)
* Headphone Jack : Yes
* Microphone Input : Yes
* S-Video Output(s) : Sold separately (via A/V Remote jack)
* USB Port(s) : Hi-speed (2.0 compliant)

Software

* Supplied Software : PMB Ver.4.2.00 Supports Windows 2000 Professional Service Pack4 (SP4), Windows XP Service Pack3 (SP3)(32bit) Windows Vista Service Pack1 (SP1)(32bit/64bit). Not supported by Mac OS.

What’s In The Box

# AC adaptor (AC-L200)
# Rechargable Battery Pack (NP-FH60)
# Remote Commander (RMT-835)
# Component A/V Cable
# A/V Connecting Cable
# Lithium Battery (CR2025)
# Application Software / USB Driver / (CD-ROM)
# USB Cable
Accessories

1) 8GB High Speed Memory Stick® Duo Pro
SanDisk’s 8GB Memory Stick® PRO Duo has
$ 46.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

2) 2GB Memory Stick® PRO Duo Card
Maximize the storage of your compact digital device with the MSX-M2 Me
$ 18.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

3) 4GB High Speed Memory Stick® Pro Duo
Sandisk 4 GB Memory Stick® Duo-SanDisk’s
$ 34.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

4) 2GB Memory Stick® Pro DUO Card
Sandisk 2 GB Memory Stick® Duo-SanDisk’s
$ 26.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

5) MSX-M8GS 8GB Memory Stick® Duo PRO
Sony’s MSX-M8GS Memory Stick® is a great
$ 39.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

6) ACD-747 (NP-FH100) 6-HOUR Lithium Ion Recharcheable Battery for Sony Camcorders
$ 79.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

7) NP-FH70 InfoLithium H Series Rechargeable Battery Pack
Sony’s NP-FH70 Lithium Ion H Series Standard rechargeable battery pack
$ 69.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

8) 4 year extended warrantee
4 Year Video Warranty This warranty is an extension of the manufactur
$ 179.99 Add to Cart

9) Memory Stick® Card Reader
Merkury Innovations Memory Stick® Card R
$ 11.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

10) Super Lens Special – Buy One Wide Angle/Macro Lens and Get A 2x Telephoto Lens-For Half Price!
1. Sakar High Grade Professional
$ 119.95 Add to Cart

11) 37mm 2X High Resolution TelePhoto Lens
Nikura lenses are specifically crafted to increase the versatility of
$ 119.95 Add to Cart

12) 37mm 0.5X High Resolution Wide Angle Lens
Nikura lenses are specifically crafted to increase the versatility of
$ 119.95 Add to Cart

13) 37mm 3 Piece Multi-Coated Professional Filter Kit
This 3 piece filter kit includes the following:

* UV Fil

$ 149.99 Add to Cart

14) PCM229402M CABLES, 2 METER MIN HDMI TO MINI
$ 29.95 Add to Cart

15) 58-TR 58 inch 3 way Fluid Pan Head Tripod
Bubble Level; Non-Slip Adjustable Rubber Feet; Radial Leg Braces; Quic
$ 27.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

16) 848 Bogen Full-Size Tripod
The Nikon Full Size Bogen Tripod offers Bogens 728B Digi Tripod with 3
$ 119.95 Add to Cart
Why do I need this?

17) Universal Digital Camera Screen Protector
Fits All Digital Cameras,Video and most Portable GPS Units. Protects s
$ 7.95 Add to Cart

Money Saving Packages

HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder Bonus Kit 1!
Item #: SNHDRXR520K1

1. (QTY 1) Deluxe 3 Piece Lens and Camera Cleaning Kit
2. (QTY 1) 37mm UV Filter
3. (QTY 1) NP-FH50 Extended Life Lithium Ion Recharcheable Battery
4. (QTY 1) HL26 System Carrying Case
5. (QTY 1) HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder

Total if purchase
Separately: $1,186.75
Total Savings: $48.89
Abe’s Package Price: $1,137.86
free

bar
HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder Bonus Kit 2!
Item #: SNHDRXR520K2

1. (QTY 1) ACD-746 (NP-FH70) 4-HOUR Lithium Ion Recharcheable Battery for Sony Camcorders
2. (QTY 1) Deluxe 3 Piece Lens and Camera Cleaning Kit
3. (QTY 1) 37mm 2X High Resolution TelePhoto Lens
4. (QTY 1) 37-mm Multi-Coated UV Filter
5. (QTY 1) HL26 System Carrying Case
6. (QTY 1) HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder
7. (QTY 1) 2GB Memory Stick® PRO Duo Card

Total if purchase
Separately: $1,355.65
Total Savings: $113.06
Abe’s Package Price: $1,242.59
free

bar
Rebates

Product Reviews

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews

4.7

(based on 23 reviews)

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

* Great picture quality (22)
* Great features (19)
* Great sound (18)
* Comfortable to operate (17)
* Simple controls (15)

Cons

* Poor battery life (4)

Best Uses

* Home movies (21)
* HD shooting (20)
* Travel (18)
* Movies/short films (8)
* Documentaries (6)

* Reviewer Profile:
* Video enthusiast (9), Casual user (7), Semi-pro videographer (5)
*

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Reviewed by 23 customers

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Displaying reviews 1-23

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

4.0

Good, but not great.

By wolf blitzer

from houston, tx

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Simple Controls

Cons

* Poor Battery Life

Best Uses

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

Got this a few weeks ago. Overall it’s been a good vid camera. Some negatives:

* If you put a lens filter on, it DISABLES THE FLASH, which seems insane. The manual doesn’t say this, I found it on an Australian sony site. The unit has an automatic lens cover when not in use, but some people actually WANT to keep the lens covered when in use too. Would like to know the sony bonehead who thought of doing this.

* When in video mode, pictures appear much brighter than when in photo mode.

* When recording at highest video rate and then pausing, you have to wait 5 or more seconds before you can switch to photo mode while the camera writes the remaining video data to disk. Annoying if you want to switch quickly to take a hi-res picture.

* GPS works occasionally, don’t count on it much as it can’t get the signal a lot of times inside a building.

* video editing software is worthless — why didn’t they include Vegas or pinacle studio?

* battery charge is lousy and is usually 70% of advertised charge.

* filming outside at 90 degress, the unit gets very warm on the hard drive side.

* touch screen is archaic compared to canon

Video picture is good for what i’ve used it for, if they could fix the above issues then the vid camera would be great.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

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9/27/2009

5.0

great camera

By electrojue

from aliso viejo, ca

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

great camera! very easy to use….not sure of gps feature…still learning

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

9/13/2009

(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

WOW! The low light king of Prosumer cams

By ChrisMChristian

from Kennesaw, GA

About Me Semi-pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Excellent Low Light
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Slow Motion
* Great Sound
* High Quality Photo’s
* LOTS of Recording Space
* Versatile

Cons

* Expensive
* Poor Battery Life
* Proprietary Add-ons

Best Uses

* Corporate
* Documentaries
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel
* Weddings

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

HOW I USE THIS CAMCORDER
I bought this camcorder, to film my wedding at sunset. My videographer’s camcorder did decent with excellent light, but the lowlight HD recording was horrible at best. After looking at the comparible prosumer camcorders from Canon and Panasonic, I decided on the HDR-XR500V originally (going with the HDR-XR520V when purchasing for the extra recording space).

For the wedding I also bought the Sony ECM-HW2 100 meter range wireless microphone. This works great with this camcorder, injecting it’s wireless feed into the camcorders 5.1 center channel. The other accessory I bought to do the wedding was the Sony VCT-80AV tripod with remote control. This has really added another level of professional recording to the XR520V with fluid pan/tilt/zooming. The third thing I would recommend is the NP-FH100 battery. The NP-FH60 battery that comes with the XR520V will give you about an hour of recording at best, so having at least another fully charged battery is a must and the NP-FH100 gives you anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, depending on use.

THINGS THAT ARE GREAT ABOUT IT
The picture quality is AMAZING! I have the 52″ Sony XBR LCD tv which has Sony’s 10bit color (x.v.Color) and when I hook this camcorder into my receiver’s HDMI port (sending the Dolby 5.1 audio to my amp/speakers and the HD video to my TV, it is literally like a blue-ray). You won’t see any HD tv or upscaled DVD’s look as crisp as this image or sound. The video colors and detail are awesome and the audio is very impressive. It’s nice to know that you can record so much top quality HD and have plenty of space to do it. As I backup, I have a couple of Mark2 8GB memory chips that I keep in the camcorder in case.

The low light HD recording on this camcorder is the best I have seen in this class. The others will be catching up on this ability for the next year or so I’m sure. Even in low light, it seems to capture the colors and shadows correctly and the details needed for HD is accurate and missing the graininess that so many others have. That Sony G lense is a good compliment to the new CMOS design that undoubtedly contributes to this low light capability. The night shot is cool and works good, but wasn’t a feature I had to have.

This camcorder is well built and has doors and construction that feels like it will last a lot of abuse (the only exception to that quality build would be the top active shoe door, kind of odd). The 3.2″ wide LCD touch panel is nice, but getting high pixel count is the real magic here (921k pixels) also in 10bit color. This allows you to review footage at high quality. The optical stabilization will simply impress you, as they have come a long way from the first attempts at this. At the end of a pan or tilt it also helps to smooth out the video. I like little stuff too like the adjustable 124k viewfinder, the audio ports for mic and headphones, 12 MP still images or 8.3 MP dual mode for recording stills while also recording video. Though I keep mine at the ~6MP range to keep the images within the non-interpolated range as it is only a 6.6 MP CMOS. The GPS is another cool feature, not sure if I’ll use it much (wasn’t the a feature I needed).

THINGS THAT AREN’T SO GREAT
Well, I have many Sony products and have gotten use to their menu systems. So this camcorder was intuitive for me to make most changes as needed. Though, it does seem they could have designed the GUI a little better to support how people need to make changes. I like the assignable manual dial on the front, except I wish it was the whole size of the outer lens ring where it would be more comfy and practical. Another negative for a prosumer camcorder in this range is that you don’t have as many manual options as other similar camcorders, but I will admit, there is a LOT less you have to do on this camcorder to create great footage. The cost is higher than others in this range, though arguably they don’t have the same feature set. And in typical Sony style, you have to buy Sony proprietary this and that, which I’m used to, but it does add additional after costs as you add things (though the argument would be better compatibility and functioning).

Though the low light capability is amazing, I have noticed that the focusing starts to suffer as the light conditions get worse. It still works, but it adds time to getting it to focus as it gets darker. Either switch to manual focus in these conditions or work around but learning the time it needs (goes from sub second in bright light to a couple seconds to focus in darker light). I guess the last negative thing I would mention is battery life. I guess the 240GB HDD and bigger CMOS need more juice, who knows. But get bigger batteries and keep one or two charged up if you will not be near A/C for more than an hour or you may run out of power. And at that point it doesn’t matter how good this thing can record 😉

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

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9/11/2009

5.0

EASY TO USE

By ARACUS

from MIAMI BEACH, FL

About Me Semi-pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Picture Quality
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* Home Movies

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

I HAVE USED THE CAMERA OUTSIDE AND INSIDE. CAMERA WORKS GREAT IN PLACES WITH LOW LIGHT. ALSO I LIKE MANUAL FOCUS AND TOUCH SCREEN.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

8/25/2009

5.0

i would buy this product again

By henry n

from hobss nm
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* Good for my kids to use
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

easy for everyone can use, and cary to any where

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

8/16/2009

5.0

This camera does it all….and then some

By Frankie C.

from Peters Township, PA

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

I use this camera for family videos, my kids’ sporting events and when on vacation. Has all the latest features. Besides being a tad on the heavy side, it is well worth the money!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/24/2009

5.0

240gh of hd yeah

By sp

from lawrence, MA

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls

Cons

* Inadequate Features

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

Alot of outdoor acti,family campping,beach
hd picture or movies were good and very easy to used

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/13/2009

5.0

Very nice performance in low light

By AlexQ

from New York

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound

Cons

* Poor Battery Life

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

I got this camcorder after considerable research. The plusses are:
.) excellent performance in low light
.) HD video
.) surround sound
.) files are stored as .mds files on the hard drive for easy transfer.
.) tons of storage (160g is over 30 hours of footage at the highest quality).
.) the design of the camera is very well thought-out : the automatic shutter door, the easy-to-access panels for cables…

The only complaint so far is that the battery that it comes with lasts under an hour. There is a Sony replacement available that gives you 6 hours – beware of the clones, which I understand lie about their time remaining.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/9/2009

4.0

very nice camcorder

By ccyang

from Columbia, MD

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound

Cons

* High price

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

It’s a very nice camcorder. Image quality is high and operation is easy. The price is high, but if you can afford it, it is worthy. In the beginning the GPS calibration is poor, and sent me to 500 miles north. It took me outside the building to calibrate it for some times, then it works well. Although the operation is easy, you need to read the manual carefully since several important features are not in the panels or first level of settings. When it’s hurry to shoot video or image, you may be confused by switching back and forth if you are not familiar with the locations of the buttons. The included battery runs out sooner than I expect, so get a back up for good. Anyhow, it is a very sweet product.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/8/2009

5.0

The Coolest Camcorder Ever!!!!

By Happy Recorder

from Williams, Arizona

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* Documentaries
* Editing
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

My son just turned two and there is just so much that he is doing! It’s awesome how I can capture great moments of his life and ours. I also used to want to capture the gorgeous sunsets where I live, but never could do it with an ordinary camera until now! I can capture awesome sunsets and nature in video or camera mode! This makes me so very HAPPY!! Thank you so much for making the greatest camera ever!!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Images shared by Happy Recorder

The clarity and HD detail is Awesome!
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Tags: Made with Product, Using Product

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/6/2009

5.0

Another Great Sony Camcorder

By Vladimir

from Northbrook, IL

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound

Cons

* No Stylus for Touch Scree

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

It is another great product from Sony. Visual and sound quality are outstanding.

Ability to start using the camcorder as soon as the screen is open is a definite plus.

The only thing I wish they included would be a stylus for the touch screen.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

7/1/2009

5.0

Can’t Go Wrong with Top-the-Line Sony

By Daniel C.

from Newtown, PA

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

No cons here. Sony is over priced but i did my research and this is the best.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

6/28/2009

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

Awesome Camera

By Frank S.

from Washington, DC

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

With apologies t my iPhone, his camera is the best gadget I have ever purchased. While I am not a videographer by any stretch, I have owned Sony Handycams in the past and this latest model makes those others look like toys.

The more expert aficianados will be able to provide details on the technical specs of the camera, but in my laymen’s terms I can say:

– it’s basic functionality and menu navigation is incredibly simple to use
– it’s tiny and light
– the HD video quality is superb
– the 12 meg stills are outstanding
– the face/smile recognition has produced some great shots already
– the Optical Steady shot helps
– the battery life is as expected, but with a back-up it’s not a problem

I am really excited about this camera and I highly recommend it.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

6/21/2009

4.0

Amazing in most respects

By zunplugged

from Redmond, WA

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

We just had twin babies and needed something to capture all the memories to come. Ease of use is amazing w/simple controls even a novice like myself can quickly learn. The ability to focus on up to 8 faces is great…and even more so, the way it seamlessly takes photos while using video by detecting smiles. And lastly…the huge 240gb hard drive will accomodate even the most heavy duty user.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

6/21/2009

5.0

As good as it gets for a prosumer Camco

By Rene Bonvanie

from Foster City, CA

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Simple Controls

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

I took the camcorder out of its box and onto location and was blown away with its ease of use and image quality. There are lot of options and settings, but what struck me was that to start it didn’t put any barriers in your way. But once you get going, it offers lots of good ways to improve your shots. I like the GPS features and I love the macro and zoom capabilities. As an Apple user, I have not used the software, but integration with iMovie, iPhote, and Final Cut is flawless.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Was this review helpful? Yes / No

6/15/2009

(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

4.0

Incompatible shoe

By Jerry mouse

from Bay Area

About Me Semi-pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Great Picture Quality

Cons

* Poor Sound

Best Uses

* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

SD is useless, but HD is impressive. Sound quality is bad, as expected with built-in camera. The problem is, Sony only has one mic that works with the hot shoe, and it is not a shotgun. What’s worse, they have a proprietary shoe, so other equipment won’t fit on it either. You have to get a bracket to hold a light or small shotgun, which gets in the way of the strap. Very inconvenient.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)

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6/11/2009

4.0

Great Camcordeer at a reasonable price!

By SamChicago

from Hanover Park, IL

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Durable
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

I’ve used this camcorder in several times. The pictures and video came out great. I love this camcorder.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

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6/8/2009

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

5.0

High Tech Product and Endless Fun

By Proman

from Maryland

About Me Semi-pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls

Cons

Best Uses

* Documentaries
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

This is the best camcorder I have ever had. Simple and easy to use and great results. I have been using it for various events.

What I like most is the steady-shot feature. Especially when you zoom in, the picture is still steady and smooth without a tripod.

The smile detection feature is loved by the kids. They can make various funny faces and triggers the camera. The giggling just can’t stop. What’s cool is that even you are video taping, it still can quietly take pictures whenever a smile is detected.

The super large hard disk is also a plus. It’s worry free when taking videos. I had left it running all night to tape my own sleeping so I can figure out why I always feel tired every morning. I am also planning to set it up taping my backyard all night to see how many deer coming to eat up my pear tree.

The slow-mo is also a fun feature. The kids enjoy seeing themselves floating in the air. Although it can only take 3 seconds of action, we still feel it’s very useful.

Anyways, I am glad I bought this product. Will be a loved toy for the family for many years.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

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6/8/2009

4.0

um… WOW!

By CASE42 Creative Media

from Spokane, WA

About Me Pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Durable
* Great Features
* GREAT LOW LIGHT image
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Smooth slow motion
* Versatile
* Zoom mic audio

Cons

* No standard access shoe

Best Uses

* Documentaries
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

image in low light is amazing!

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

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4/19/2009

5.0

Incredible videos and pictures

By Dick and Jane

from Cairo, Egypt

About Me Casual User
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Versatile

Cons

* A little complex

Best Uses

* Documentaries
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

After a few test shoots of our kittens around the house, we took our new camera to the Great Pyramid and Sphinx in Egypt this weekend. We already knew the picture quality was good (it’s HD, after all), but I really appreciated the quality of both the video and the still shots that you can take seamlessly while recording. The sound quality was great (since it records in 5.1, my commentary was coming from behind the viewer), and once I learned where things were in the controls (such as turning off the flash when we went inside a museum), it was easy to use. For the majority of situations, it’s simply point-and-shoot, if you want it to be. The hard drive was great, we filmed off and on over about 5 hours, but barely made a dent in it, at highest quality and including several dozen still photos. We purchased an extended-life battery for it (NPH100), and it lasted for about 4.5 hours of intermittent recording (though the camera was on almost the whole time). I appreciated being able to use either the touchscreen display or the smaller viewfinder display, as this made it much easier to handle, and the viewfinder was easier to see in the bright sunlight.
Overall, we’re very pleased with the camera (especially at Abe’s price), and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line consumer camcorder.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Images shared by Dick and Jane

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Tags: Made with Product

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4/6/2009

5.0

Great Camcorder

By Fjcruiser57

from Salt Lake City Utah

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls

Cons

* None

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

This is a great camcorder the steady cam is wonderful and very easy to use

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

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4/2/2009

5.0

Solid Performer

By Persuit of Excellence

from Washington, DC

About Me Video Enthusiast
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Comfortable to Operate
* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Simple Controls
* Versatile

Cons

* Poor Battery Life

Best Uses

* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

This is a great camera in a small package, It’s easy to use right out of the box it’s light the controls are exactly where I would have put them if I designed it. The image stablizer is essential for distance shooting. Picture quality is as good as any HD camera out there. Works great in low light and the super night shot for no light shooting.

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

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4/1/2009

(5 of 5 customers found this review helpful)

4.0

Many Features, but Missing Critical Ones

By Bill

from Lynchburg, VA

About Me Semi-pro Videographer
Verified Buyer

Pros

* Great Features
* Great Picture Quality
* Great Sound
* Versatile
* Very Compact

Cons

* Complicated To Operate
* Missing Critical Features
* Poor documentation

Best Uses

* Documentaries
* HD Shooting
* Home Movies
* Movies/Short Films
* Still Camera
* Travel

Comments about Sony HDR-XR520V 240GB High Definition Camcorder:

+Face shots are great
+12MP stills are superb (-but not in video mode)
+HD Video is superb
+Optical “Steady Shot” is superb
+Can be carried in pocket
-No LANC is huge deficiency
-No flash with filters/extenders mounted
-No way to redirect flash
-No video gain control
-No audio gain control
-No S-video or DVI cables included
-No provision for transcoding AVCHD

Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

(5 of 5 customers found this review helpful)

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Product Questions and Answers

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All of our Products are Brand New, USA unless stated otherwise. If you have questions about product availability, pricing, ordering, delivery, international shipping, or other service issues, please call 1-800-992-2237 or email [email protected].
9 Questions | 15 Answers

Q:
I am interested in this product. I will be travelling to India back soon. Do you have this product, worldwide compatible i.e PAL/NTSC?

Asked on 10/12/2009 by Prem from Charlotte

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1 answer
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
The HDR-XR520E is PAL compatible.

Answered on 10/26/2009 by Kenny from Abes
*

Q:
Does this unit work with MAC OS?

Asked on 9/30/2009 by JM from VT

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2 answers
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
This camcorder will not be supported by Mac OS.

Answered on 9/30/2009 by Glenn from Abes
o

A:
It may not be officially listed as being supported but after extensive research I’ve found multiple claims that Mac works flawlessly with the Sony HDR-XR520V.

Answered on 10/22/2009 by Mudie from Maine
*

Q:
This handy cam which country made ? Japan – China or made by other country ?

Asked on 9/17/2009 by mottohotto from USA

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1 answer
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
This item is manufactured overseas for sale in the USA, i cannot verify which country produced it, as that varies with stock.

Answered on 9/17/2009 by steve from abes
*

Q:
Kindly this cam which country made ?
Japan or China or another country ?

Asked on 9/17/2009 by mottohotto from Fl

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1 answer
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
this product was manufactured overseas for sale in the USA. i cannot say what country of origin is as it varies by stock.

Answered on 9/17/2009 by steve from abes
*

Q:
Does this one have smile recognition?

Asked on 9/9/2009 by Bobby from Huntsville, AL

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3 answers
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
This camera does have Smile Shutter Technology.

Answered on 9/9/2009 by Trent from Abes
o

VERIFIED BUYER

A:
YES IT DOES. ON , OFF AND HIGH LEVEL

Answered on 9/11/2009 by ARACUS from MIAMI BEACH, FL
o

VERIFIED BUYER

A:
Not only does it have smile recognition using Smile Shutter technology, it even detects faces controlling color, exposure and focus. For both video and photo’s you get more natural skin tones. I’ve used the smile shutter technology to only take pictures when the subject is smiling. You can set it to recognize between adults and children and even the level of smiling. Then if you are shooting video and want to get a good photo, just hit the photo button and smile shutter will wait until the smiles are there (based on the settings you want). I can’t remember if this camcorder does 8 or 9 faces and smiles, but it’s something like that.

Answered on 9/13/2009 by ChrisMChristian from Kennesaw, GA
*

Q:
Is there a specific polarizing filter recommended for this camcorder for outdoor shots?

Asked on 8/20/2009 by Momo from Lincoln, NE

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1 answer
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A:
I would recommend using the VF-R37NK 37mm ND filter kit.

Answered on 9/5/2009 by Nicholas from Abes
*

Q:
Is this product the one with the GPS function?

Asked on 6/29/2009 by Anonymous

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3 answers
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CUSTOMER CARE

A:
yes

Answered on 6/29/2009 by steve from abes
o

VERIFIED BUYER

A:
Yes it is. It shows your location on the map like a normal GPS. You can zoom in and zoom out. It also associates the location with the movie.

Answered on 7/6/2009 by Vladimir from Northbrook, IL
o

VERIFIED BUYER

A:
Yes it has. When it is used for the first time, I recommend to use it in an open area to calibrate GPS for some times until you get the correct location.

Answered on 7/9/2009 by ccyang from Columbia, MD
*

Q:
do you have this camera also PAL?

Asked on 6/4/2009 by Anonymous

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2 answers
o

CUSTOMER CARE

A:
no, im sorry.

Answered on 6/4/2009 by steve from abes
o

VERIFIED BUYER

A:
No, not on this camcorder.

Answered on 6/11/2009 by SamChicago from Hanover Park, IL
*

Q:
where is this product made of? (which country)

Asked on 5/26/2009 by Anonymous from victor. N kansas

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1 answer
o

CUSTOMER CARE

A:
most products are manufactered overseas for sale in USA.

Answered on 5/26/2009 by melanie from edison

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