CX690 vs. CX700
 

Yes, I might be interested in this model as well and I look forward to the first tests. Unfortunately it´s not absolutely clear at the moment what the differences between the CX700 and the CX690 are. Even the Sony homepage is a bit inconsistent. The CX690 definitely has no GPS receiver and very likely no flash memory (although the website lists 96GB built-in memory for both). And maybe both camcorders use different types of stabilizers (CX690: SteadyShot, CX700: SteadyShot Active). But to be sure, I guess we will have to wait till it is available: The CX690 is expected to follow one month after the CX700, so in April we should know everything about it.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Let's say a consumer buys a shiny new CX700 for a big vacation across Europe for which they've paid $5000. On day 12, they've got 90GB of outstanding footage and still shots...all their memories of the fantastic trip.

How much is that camera worth on Day 13?

For my money, cameras are for acquisition, memory is for transfer, and hard drives or the cloud are for storage. After getting robbed of everything in Costa Rica last year, the last thing I'd want is footage in the camera.

Give me the CX690, especially if it has the Sony equivalent of Relay Recording.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Well all the latest Sony camcorders have card slots for SDHC or Memory stick whether or not they have internal memory. They also will transfer to USB hard disk without a computer . So if one doesn't want to record to the internal memory just record to the card slot. or at the end of every day backup to hard drive like a Passport USB drive. The CX690 doesn't seem to be available on any of the NA sites so far anyway. The CX560 looks like a CX700 with less memory and no viewfinder.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Thanks, Ron, I had not made that connection.

I'm still waiting for the model with zero memory, to compete with the HF-S200 I just bought. :)

I just noticed the B&H description lists a "built-in USB cable." Funky. Sounds like a recipe for frustration.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

It looks to me like the CX560V is as close to a "card only" configuration as they are offering - haven't heard anything about a "690" - any links? The 560 will drop the VF, and has 64G memory built in, plus of course the card slot for external card in MS Pro Duo or SDHC flavor.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

The USB cable is in the strap so is out of the way and if you have a laptop with you means there is no need to bring a cable just connect and backup to laptop.
Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

I didn't know it was possible to transfer video files from the camcorder direct to an external hard drive. I thought you always had to go via a computer. That's good news. So I take it if you recorded onto the built-in camcorder drive (not SDHC card) you could then drag files, or whatever you do with them, onto something like the Passport USB drive or whatever external portable hard drive you have as long as it has the appropriate USB port. That could save a lot of money because if you were shooting say 12 hours of video you wouldn't have to buy loads of SDHC cards. I shockproof portable hard drive doesn't cost very much these days. Just one worry, how do you tell that all your video clips have transferred successfully?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Ron, you are right. Just checked specs for both CX700 and CX560 and both offer the option to transfer to external hard drive:

'Direct Copy - Transfer video footage direct to an external hard disk drive without PC: playback with fun camcorder features'

and:

'Also featured on all HD and SD models, the Direct Copy feature lets you copy footage directly from Handycam camcorders to any brand of external hard disk drive (USB2.0; under2TB, FAT32) via a USB cable (VMC-UAM1; sold separately), when connected to AC power, for PC-free back-up and archiving. Video stored on the external HDD can be played back through the camcorder for viewing on a compatible HD television.'

Looks like you have to be plugged into mains AC to do this. I was hoping this could be done when outdoors with no access to a power socket.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

I think this is because some of the USB drive take power from the USB connector and in this case the camcorder would have to supply power. May not be enough power in batteries in this mode to power the external hard drive too. Also better to have mains supply rather than corrupt data if battery shuts down during transfer.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Anyone have on order? When will the first one be in someones hand?

I have mixed thoughts on the USB cable being on the unit. If it breaks, you are dead meat since I assume there is no other way to get the data out. Too bad firewire is not on these units.

Weird the 550 has the viewfinder, but the 560 does not. Guess they understand how to get the max dollar from the consumer.

There is only so much power you can take from the camcorder. Most external USB drives of any size would need external power. Now, if the USB was small, then maybe, but no way I would want to transfer files via battery power.

Still trying to understand if the 60P is that much better than the 60i. I only buy these things like once every 5 years, so really want to capture the best material for any future needs. So, if I make a BR from 60P or 60i material, will I see any difference? If not, what is the value of 60P?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Yes, I see your point.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Am also interested in more data about the 700 vs the 690. I really have no desire to have a GPS function.
Viewfinder is a high high want.

Dave

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Found the CX690 on the Sony German site
Sony UK do not list the CX690, PJ50 or the CX560, seems at the moment we are not getting the full range as announced at CES, but Germany, another pal 50/25p territory are!






HDR-CX690E (HDRCX690E) : Übersicht : Kameras & Camcorder : Sony

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Says Recording on an optional memory card - Recording on removable Memory Stick ™ or SD Card (Memory Stick Pro Duo ™ or SD / SDHC)

I do not see any internal flash like the 700v, so this implies only to memory cards? If so, what are the pro and cons? Cost of a 96gig memory card?

Says no GPS.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

I think that the GPS is quite useful if you are traveling. Sets the camera clock to the correct time zone and will record the location where you took the shot. If you then use the Motion Browser software that comes with the camera you can get access to all this information in the calendar view and search by all sorts of information. I would have liked this on the SR11 when I was travelling between New Zealand and Australia as I got the clock out by 12 hours several times !! Bright sunshine at 2am is not what I expected !!!

I have my CX700 on order will come in the next few days.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Yes it's card only, at a price of 200 euros less than the CX700 it would suit me as I would never use the internal memory anyway as I always back up 16gb cards as i go to be safe.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Ron, would really like to hear what you think of the CX700 when you have had a chance to try it out.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Hmm, that "690" is interesting, as it hasn't been officially announced anywhere I've seen, but is a logical addition to the line,,, looks to be a feature reduced 700, which might be to meet a market price point. Pretty close in price to the CX560 though if my mental calculations are right?

The CX560 is actually an extension of the CX500/520 lineage (which came from the CX7/12 ancestry), Thus the "no VF" design. The CX700 extends the CX550 and since the HDD based cams seem to have vanished in favor of flash memory, I guess they also replace the "XR" series at the top of the line. Sony has offered similar variations in the lineup for at least 5 years, if memory serves. The nice thing is image quality has always been quite consistent across the Handycam line, so mixing "last year's model" with this years model, or an XR with a CX, in a multicam shoot is easy.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Just unpacked my CX700 battery is charging as I do not have any V series batteries will have to wait and let the small 50 battery charge. Attached are a few quick photo taken with the XR500.

Box includes a USB extension cord, a nice lens hood that you can see in the photo does not shield the flash when attached. Will report more when I have had a chance to play a little more. Haven't even read the manual yet just picked up 30 mins ago.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Thanks for posting those photos, Ron. That's a pretty good lens hood.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Little bit more information. There are two USB connections. One is the built in cable that you can see with the plug that fits in the strap. This is used for upload with the included USB cable extension. There is another USB connection that needs a special cable ( not included) that is used for uploading to portable USB drives or the Sony direct to DVD recorders. This plug is behind the same cover for the Memory Stick and SDHC connections . It's getting dark hear now so will wait until tomorrow for some daylight shots but the picture is noticeably better than the XR500 so will give my NX5U a real challenge.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Will be interested to hear how performance is - shouldn't be THAT much better than the XR500, or it really will be giving the NX a run for the money! Although the CX550 is pretty impressive, and they do seem to manage a few tweaks here and there each year...

I'd noticed "lens hood" in the description, that is a mighty substantial one! None shown on the CX560 list, so that really drops the price differential down since a hood like that is around $40 typically from Sony... hmm. and since adding a mic would pretty much drop this right smack dab on top of the MC50U (and that's before the additional features)... wonder if there will be some big price drops or what - this starts coming really close to a "mini-pro" package!

Oh yeah, dumb question, how and where is the tripod mount? After the screwey position on the CX550, wonder if they rehired the tripod screw positioning expert!

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Some shots of the bottom, side with the second USB connector, HDMI and the card slot, shot of the back with the mode switch etc.

The LCD is smaller but is very sharp and bright. Will do some more shooting tomorrow its dark now. What is surprising is taking some shots in my dark bedroom the data code shows 21db of gain and the image is pretty clean. Will do some more testing tomorrow against the XR500 and the NX5U.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Ron, who did you order this from? Are others expecting to get soon? I also need the new cx160 ASAP so
am hoping they all ship

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Got it from the local Sony store. I noticed it showed in stock on the Sony site so rang up and ordered it. Came in 3 days from Toronto I think. I was told there were only two in Canada.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Well, at least looks to be centered under the camera, side to side, although pretty far forward again...

Somehow I think I've got that USB cable - seems like it's been used on some of their small P&S cameras. Definitley a bit weird having that cable sticking out on the strap the way they do...

I thought the imaging block was pretty much similar to the earlier 500/550 series, but sounds like they've tweaked things even more to get good lo noise and low light performance, guess technology continues to get better!

That whole hood thing now has me thinking the old CX500V's might be time to upgrade to the CX700... I like the CX550's too much to upgrade them, and can't imagine performance imroved that much between generations.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

In the specs, I read that the chip has more pixels so it does look like an entirely different chip.

When you get the chance, can you please post 1080 60p clips on Vimeo?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

That's the same USB port that the CX/XR550 has. I'd assume you can still use any old 5-pin mini-USB cable with it just like I do with my 550.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

That port is interesting. It does not, in fact, look like the standard mini USB -- it looks more like their old component out proprietary D jack.

The USB on my xr520v is in the middle below. Note the difference in jack shape. But the pins in the middle do look similar. I dunno.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

The port is not a standard USB port you are correct Adam. Needs a special cable that is not included though it does mention that the Sony DVD recorders will connect. I don't have one of those so do not know if they have a different cable for this purpose. There may be additional or less connections ? Will look closer this morning now its light. An interesting side note is the camera has not been outside yet but it knows where it is exactly on the map !!!!

Ron Evans

edit: Also the manual that came with the camera is for the CX560/560V and the CX700/700V. The " V " models have GPS.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Reading the manual choices on the CD there is also the CX690E. I loaded this as well as the CX700V to see if there were differences noted. The CX690E looks to be the same model without GPS or internal memory but does have all the other features of the CX700V including viewfinder and lens hood. So the top of this consumer lineup will be the CX690E, CX700E and CX700VE these are all PAL camcorders. The 690 does not appear to be in NTSC as far as I can tell.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Hadn't realised this was out yet, at moment its priced £1500 preorder at amazon (!!!!). One quick question to those who have one - would the hood that comes with it fit a xr550?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

The hood will not fit my XR500 not sure about the 550 series though. Price in Canada is $1299Can.

Paul I will try and record some 60P but today is not good weather outside for any shots of outdoor movement. It is dull, mix of rain and snow so not very pleasant. Could take a few days for the weather to clear up then I will try and get something interesting that makes 60P worthwhile. So far indoors I see little difference as expected.

Comparing to the XR500 and NX5U the colour seems to be a little lower easy to bring up to the same in Edius by adding about 5% to chroma then they match more closely. Wide angle is very wide compared to even the NX5U. The downside so far is that everything is in a menu. I would have like the low lux to be a switch like the XR500 but its buried in a menu.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Ron -

I think this should have the customizable menu (unlike the XR500), so you can put up to 6 favorite buttons on the first "page" that comes up - that feature came back with the CX500 (released after the XR500), and unless they changed the menus again, should be present.

I think you and that other lucky guy in Canada must have gotten a couple they let out early, congrats on that!

Interesting observations on the model #'s, sounds like Sony has a "EU only" version in the 690, I suppose they figure the 560 serves the same basic purpose for the rest of us... have yet to actually SEE a "non-V" version of the cameras with GPS feature in the spec list, I really wonder if they exist (the 690 would be a "first", as a slightly dumbed down 700).

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

is it possible to make a bluray in 1080 60P? No compatibility issues?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

No customizable menus Dave. So its a several step process for almost anything. Click menu, click selection. click sub section click selection and then make changes and backout of all the menus. Long processes for some things. Manual control works as before on my XR500. Hold in button until section come up, make selection etc. The AE shift is now just +/- 1.0 EV. It is possible to set more than one control as long as they do not conflict. ie fix shutter at1/60 and then use exposure for example.

I have just posted a short video at 60P taken from my front door in the rain to Vimeo but it is still processing. Will post again when I know its up.

Picture is better than the XR500 in that even at its indicated 21db( which is also new none of my other many Sony's go more than 18db) of gain the picture is still very usable. Impressive.

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

This is the same type of question I have. If I buy this camera, capture in 60p, what improvements in output media is available, and will folks see a difference watching?

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

No 1080P60 is not part of the spec. Playback directly to the TV will be better than interlace because the TV will not have to deinterlace and effectively make up for the missing information. If you save to a Sony direct to disc recorder then you can playback from that to the TV. But for editing on an interlaced timeline it should work as any interlace file. For stills from this video file there will be a big improvement as there is twice the data available though it will have been compressed somewhat differently to a 60i stream.

So the home movie market for which it is intended who edit in camera and record directly to a Sony DVD recorder will end up with 60P discs that they can watch of their holidays or family events in glorious colour and 60P. Either from the same recorder or the PS3. Yes they will be better than Bluray !!!

Ron Evans

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

Interesting, I would want to edit all my stuff via some package like CS5.

When HDV first came out, there was no way to get to folks, but I grabbed the material in this format anyways. Then when tools caught up, I was able to make into BR DVD's now.

I am hoping this same approach works with 60p. I can take all the pictures with this of my granddaughters, and in the future, be able to use this somehow with better video quality when the tools catch up.

Re: Sony introduces HDR-CX700v 1080p60 camcorder
 

I did the same with HDV and output the files back to HDV tape after editing then. Now with AVCHD for all my cameras. Most of these are 60i so will stay with that format for now but I like the idea of eventually moving to 60P for all of them and maybe by then the standards will change. At least all the files can be saved in the highest format. I backup everything to DLT data tape anyway. LTo3 tapes are cheap ($25 for 400G ) so will hold over 30 hours of AVCHD. Vegas will edit the files on a 60P timeline or 60i timeline as will Edius.

Ron Evans