Sony High Definition Handycam® Camcorder HDR-CX12

Sony High Definition Handycam® Camcorder HDR-CX12

 

I know this camera is not out yet, but I have a few questions.

 

Would this be a good camera for UW use?

 

What potential drawbacks in it's features do you see for UW use?

 

Based upon past experience which housing manufactures will be likely to offer a housing for it?

 

Thanks for any insight.

 

Dave B.

What potential drawbacks in it's features do you see for UW use?

Not thrilled with the record time:

Recording and Playback Times : When using supplied 4GBB4 Memory Stick PRO Duoâ„¢ Media Mark2:

High Definition: FH = up to 25 min., HQ = up to 30 min. SP = up to 65 min., LP = up to 85 min.

 

Priced Memory Stick PRO Duo Media? Google shows it around $55 +/-.

 

Unless you're going to remove the camera from the housing, remove the Memory Stick, and download it to a laptop between dives, you'll need more than one on a multi-dive shoot.

 

I'm also not clear on what this means: Memory Stick PRO Duoâ„¢ Media Compatibility : Tested to support up to 16GB media capacity; does not support high speed transfer function; does not support Access Control security function. in case you wanted to buy larger media cards.

 

Based upon past experience which housing manufactures will be likely to offer a housing for it?

It's the standard HDR-XXX form factor so I would assume any that currently work with the other HDR cameras. Any electronic housing mfr. that currently supports the A/V/Remote jack. Like the L&M Stingray HD, likely also the Bluefin. Amphibico's EVO Elite?, TopDawg etc. Mechanical housings are likely Gates, Equinox and Ikelite. Assuming they sell enough of them to justify any needed control positioning modifications for Gates to justify it if necessary. It's a lot harder to re-tool a metal housing than a poly housing.

 

Probably just about anybody who makes a housing for the HDR series camera format.

I use a CX7 for my topside point & shoot video camera, and am happy with. The video quality is less than spectacular though, especially in low light, so it probably wouldn't be my first choice as an underwater camera. I'd wait for camcorderinfo.com reviews though, as these things improve over time.

 

Seatool built a custom housing for the CX7, and they are going to retool to add the manual control dial on the front of the camera (missing from this). I'm sure Light & Motion will adapt the Stingray HD to this camera.

 

HRD-SR12 is an outstanding option with wide ranging housing support and excellent low light ability that also deserves your consideration.