CES 2011 Day One Round Up

With much excitement and totally being overwhelmed here at CES 2011, we wanted to thank you all who checked out our today’s posts during Sony’s Press Conference. Being here at the Sony booth (I am not even sure why they call it a booth, because it is a humongous Sony infused area) is simply mesmerizing and at the same time amazing to be among the first to experience and have hands on experience with products that will be hitting the store shelves later in the year. We will do our best to bring some unique information about the new products, provide you with video footage as well as supplement with interesting interviews and dialogues we will be involved in while being here on the floor.

If you have missed our first array of posts, feel free to check out  the links below and explore all the juicy information within each post. We will be updating our posts with photo libraries, so check them out soon for high resolution images.



06
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Corporate, Media

DISCUSSION 4 Comments

Sony Launches Handycam Camcorders With Built-in Projector

Sony has debuted a radically different HD Handycam compared to years past – it has a built-in video projector. Known as the PJ series, the camcorders, launched at CES 2011, will carry the HDR-PJ50V, HDR-PJ30V, and and HDR-PJ10 model names.

Before you laugh off a tiny projector built on the opposite side of the LCD screen, check out these specifications. The PJ series can actually project an video and images up to 60 inches (when standing 18 feet away). The camcorder, like other 2011 Handycam models, has stereo speakers built in with S-Master digital amplifier and Clear Phase technologies. Talk about a unique way to share the family outing!

Other features include large hard drive capacities, 1080/60p video recording (up to 24mbps), Exmor-R image sensors, built-in GPS, built-in USB, great optics, and other favorable options. Prices aren’t really that bad considering everything you get, with the highest model (PJ50V) costing about $1,000.

Sony HDR-PJ50V High-Definition Hard Disk Drive Handycam® Camcorder w/ Built-
in Projector
Available in April for about $1000

  • Built-in video projector and speakers enable a whole new way to enjoy playback without needing to plug into an HDTV
  • Projector is integrated into the flip-out 3.0” Wide Clear Photo Plus touch panel LCD screen, capable of projecting images up to 60” onto walls, ceilings, etc.
  • Built-in audio system and stereo speakers with S-Master digital amplifier and Clear Phase correction, wind noise reduction, and mic/HP jack
  • Full 1920×1080 HD video recording at up to 24Mbps and 7-megapixel still image capture
  • 220GB hard disk drive, 1080/60p playback w/ Optical SteadyShot™ w/ Active Mode
  • “Exmor-R” CMOS sensor and Wide Angle G Lens w/ 12x optical and 17x Extended Zoom
  • Built-in GPS receiver w/ NAVTEQ® maps geo-tags content
  • Event Browse for automatic grouping of content by events and Highlight Playback & Share to create highlight reels automatically
  • Built-in USB cable and software for easy web upload and quick charge

Sony HDR-PJ30V High-Definition Flash Memory Handycam® Camcorder w/ Built-
in Projector
Available in March for about $950

  • Built-in video projector and Clear Phase stereo speakers enable a whole new way to enjoy playback without needing to plug into an HDTV
  • Projector is integrated into the flip-out 3.0” Wide Clear Photo Plus touch panel LCD screen, capable of projecting images up to 60” onto walls, ceilings, etc.
  • Built-in Clear Phase stereo speakers with S-Master digital amplifier, wind noise reduction, and mic/HP jack
  • Full 1920×1080 high-definition video recording at up to 24Mbps and 7-megapixel still image capture
  • 32GB flash memory, 1080/60p playback w/ Optical SteadyShot™™ w/ Active Mode
  • “Exmor-R” CMOS sensor and Wide Angle G Lens w/ 12x optical and 17x Extended Zoom
  • Built-in GPS receiver w/ NAVTEQ® maps geo-tags content
  • Event Browse for automatic grouping of content by events and Highlight
  • Playback & Share to create highlight reels automatically
  • Built-in USB cable and software for easy web upload and quick charge

Sony HDR-PJ10 High-Definition Flash Memory Handycam® Camcorder w/ Built-in
Projector
Available in March for about $700

  • Built-in video projector and speakers enable a whole new way to enjoy playback without needing to plug into an HDTV
  • Projector is integrated into the flip-out 3.0” Wide Clear Photo Plus touch panel LCD screen, capable of projecting images up to 60” onto walls, ceilings, etc.
  • Full 1920×1080 high-definition video recording at up to 24Mbps and 3-megapixel still image capture
  • 16GB flash memory, 1080/60p playback w/ Optical SteadyShot™ w/ Active Mode
  • “Exmor-R” CMOS sensor and Wide Angle G Lens w/ 30x optical and 42x Extended Zoom
  • Event Browse for automatic grouping of content by events and Highlight Playback & Share to create highlight reels automatically
  • Built-in USB cable and software for easy web upload and quick charge
  • Built-in microphone with wind noise reduction and mic/HP jack
05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 13 Comments

Sony’s Tiny WX Series Point And Shoot Cameras Refreshed With 3D

The tiny Sony WX series of point and shoot cameras got an overhaul at CES 2011, with two new models, the DSC-WX9 and DSC-WX10.

Despite the small size of the WX10, it packs a 16.2 megapixel Exmor R sensor, a 7x F2.4 lens that is 24mm wide angle. The camera also includes Optical SteadyShot and 10fps image capture. HD Video capture capability maxes out at 1080@60i, with the option to dual record movies and take pictures at the same time.

There’s also an interesting improvement as to the way the WX10 focuses. Sony notes, “Instead of having a mechanical gear to drive the AutoFocus, the DSC-WX10 camera has a magnetic coil (like those used in an audio speaker) to move the lens linearly and achieve AutoFocus in a straight back-and-forth motion—not rotationally.”

Other notable features include 3D still image capture and 3D sweep panorama, which are found on many other 2011 Sony Cyber-shot cameras. Camera enthusiasts will also enjoy the manual operation found on the WX10, which allows you to fully control the shot the way you want it. The DSC-WX10 will hit the market with one color, black, this March for $280.

We noticed both models have Backlight Correction HDR, and Background Defocus modes to optimize your photography. I love background defocus mode, as it really adds a professional touch to portraits and other types of pictures.

The WX9 differs slightly in comparison to the WX10. It has a 10fps 16.2 megapixel Exmor R sensor, and a 5x 24m wide angle lens. Like the WX10, the WX9 captures HD movies at 1080/60i, and can shoot 3D photos and 3D panoramic shots. The camera also features a 921,000 Xtra-Fine LCD with an improved Control Wheel. The WX9 will be available in black, silver, and red this March for $220.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 7 Comments

Sony’s Affordable W-Series Point And Shoot Cameras Have Four Options Under $200

Continuing with the plethora of digital imaging announcements at CES 2011, Sony has refreshed its affordable W-series range of point and shoot cameras under $200. The cameras feature popular features Sony is known for are found in these cameras, including Sweep Panorama mode, Steadyshot, iAuto, Face Detection and Smile Shutter.

Here is the full list of models, which include the DSC-W510, DSC-W530, DSC-W560, and DSC-W570. Prices between the low to high end models range from $110 to $180, offering four options in the precious sub-$200 price range.

The DSC-W510 camera will be available in silver, black, pink and red this February for about $110. Features include:

  • 26mm equivalent lens with 4x optical zoom
  • Capture breathtaking images in Sweep Panorama mode
  • SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur
  • 12.1-megapixel 2.7-inch LCD screen for easy viewing
  • iAuto mode automatically optimizes camera settings

The DSC-W530 camera will be available in silver, black, pink, green and blue this February for about $130. Features include:

  • 26mm wide Carl Zeiss® lens with 4x optical zoom
  • Capture breathtaking images in Sweep Panorama mode
  • SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur
  • 14.1-megapixel 2.7-inch LCD screen for easy viewing
  • iAuto mode automatically optimizes camera settings

The DSC-W560 camera will be available in silver, black, red and blue this February for about $160. Features include:

  • 26mm wide angle lens with 4x optical zoom
  • Capture your videos in HD Movie mode (720p)
  • Take breathtaking images in Sweep Panorama mode
  • 14.1-megapixel 3-inch LCD screen for easy viewing
  • Optical SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur

The DSC-W570 camera will be available in silver, black, pink and violet this February for about $180. Features include:

  • 25mm wide lens with 5x optical zoom
  • Take breathtaking images in Sweep Panorama mode
  • 16.1-megapixel 2.7-inch LCD screen for easy viewing
  • Capture your videos in HD Movie mode (720p)
  • Optical SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur
05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 2 Comments

Sony’s Refreshes Indestructible DSC-TX10 Point And Shoot Camera

My favorite Sony point and shoot camera of 2010 had to be the DSC-TX5, which was a waterproof, freeze-proof, shockproof and dust-proof camera. Sony is refreshing this series at CES 2011 with the introduction of the DSC-TX10. The newest version has several advantages over last year’s model and seems once again like the perfect point and shoot.

Once again the camera retains all of the features that make it indestructible, but can now go to a depth of 16 feet underwater (for up to a hour) instead of the 10 on the TX5. There are also some imaging improvements, as the TX10 has a 16.2 megapixel Exmor R sensor, which is a big upgrade from the 10 megapixel sensor in the TX5.

The TX10 also has the exclusive new feature found in several 2011 Sony Cyber-shot cameras: 3D still photo capability and 3D Sweep Panorama.

Colors include silver, black, green, blue and pink, all of which will be available this March. Price is about in line with what we expect at $330, which means it will have a more conservative price by the holidays.

There’s also the addition of 1080i HD movie mode, which is yet another upgrade from the 720p resolution video capability the TX5 had last year. A nice wide 3 inch LCD is on the back of the camera, and we hope the screen’s responsiveness has been improved. It was slightly irritating on the TX5, with the included stylus/fingernail only providing the best results.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 2 Comments

Sony Bloggie Camera/Camcorder Gets Huge Revamp For CES 2011 Including 3D, Dual Screens


The Sony Bloggie camera/camcorder has gone through quite the evolution since its debut several years ago. The first model was rather funky in appearance, and its slick successor with aluminum finish brought back the sense of high quality we all know and love from Sony. Sony has lost a lot of ground in digital imaging from competitors such as Cisco’s Flip series, so let’s see what the 2011 Bloggie brings to the table.

There are three new Bloggie MP4 cameras debuting at CES 2011: the Bloggie, Bloggie Duo, and Bloggie 3D.

All of the models have several base features, including a 2.7 inch screen, Steadyshot, 5 megapixel Exmor sensor and 1920×1080 MP4 video recording capability. We were surprised to see Sony drop the Bloggie from 12 megapixels to 5, as the late 2010 model had 12. I have a feeling the camera will still capture photos similar to the iPhone 4, which is still fantastic. Auto Focus and Auto Macro mode are also included, as well as Dual Record, which allows you to take photos while shooting video.

Sharing content with a Bloggie camera is easy – you can either upload (and also charge) using the built-in USB slide out arm, or via the HDMI output.

The most advanced Bloggie is the obviously the 8GB 3D-equipped Bloggie (MHS-FS3), which has two lenses/sensors on the rear to capture 3D images and video. Sony is saying this is the world’s first 3D pocket camera, and we have a feeling we will see more 3D pocket cameras from the competition in 2011.

The Bloggie 3D will cost $250 when it hits stores in April, and also has interesting features such as a stereo microphone and built-in LED light for easier shooting in dark situations. Hopefully the LED isn’t blinding.

The 4GB Bloggie Duo (MHS-FS2) is a keen model that responds well to Samsung’s innovative dual screen point and shoot cameras. The rear of the device has a 2.7 inch screen like the other Bloggie models, but differs by the inclusion of a 2.0 inch screen on the front for easier self-portraits. Bloggie Duo comes in four colors, including violet, green, pink and white and will go on sale in March for $170.

The most basic Bloggie (MHS-FS1) is the slimmest of the bunch and lacks some features compared to its brethren. The Bloggie will go on sale in March for $150 and will be available in black and white.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 4 Comments

Sony Reveals TX100V Point And Shoot Camera With OLED And 3D

Sony’s flagship point and shoot camera announced at CES 2011 is the new DSC-TX100V. Featuring a goregous 3.5 inch OLED screen, you can review and show off your pictures with color reproduction far superior to LCD.

Aside from that bombshell, there’s also the fact the TX100V records in full 1080@60p mode. At the time of announcement, this is supposedly a world first for compact digital still cameras, but we expect that to become the norm amongst the competition in 2011. The quality should be pretty excellent, as the company has the reputation to jam high quality sensors in a tiny package. We are definitely going to record some test videos for you to check out soon.

Colors available for this little dynamo include silver, back and red this March. Price is high end for this product category at $380, but it should be a heavy contender compared to the competition.

Sony has crammed in even more groundbreaking features with the introduction of 3D Still Image capture, a first for this generation. Sony is also bringing back the 3D Sweep Panorama mode. Perhaps the combination of these two features will entice the consumer to become more interested in 3D. Hopefully we can upload this type of content to Facebook one day.

The camera also touts a Sweep Multi Angle, which simulates the 3D effect of the photo you’d see on TV, but on the camera screen by merely tilting the device.

For quick use of the TX100V in any situation, Sony has updated its Auto modes, and have also included 36 still picture modes. There’s also a background defocus mode, which is commonly found on DSLR’s, interchangeable lens cameras (such as the NEX series, Samsung NX or Olympus Pen). Background defocus can really make for some nice shots, and will delight digital imaging enthusiasts.

As for specifications, the popular and high quality 16.2 megapixel/10fps Exmor R CMOS sensor is back again, which shoots brilliant photos even in low light. We’ve shot with a Exmor R-equipped device before in the past and it blows away cameras from years prior that don’t have this technology.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 2 Comments

Sony Launches Incredible 3D Consumer Camcorder

Say hello to the most advanced consumer camcorder Sony has ever released – the HDR-TD10 “double full HD” 3D camcorder, launched at CES 2011. This is one serious performer, and features dual Sony G lenses, dual Exmor R sensors, and dual BIONZ image processors.

Thankfully, for those of you who don’t have 3D displays quite yet, the TD10 records 2D HD perfectly well. Other standard features include 64GB of built in flash memory, a generous 3.5 inch LCD screen, 10x optical zoom, Optical Steadyshot, and other attractive features. The price point, $1500 when it debuts this April) seems fair for a first generation 3D consumer camcorder, especially considering this is a new type of product.

Sony HDR-TD10 3D High-Definition Flash Memory Handycam Camcorder
 Available in April for about $1500

  • World’s first “Double Full HD” 3D consumer camcorder w/ Integrated Dual Camera System – two Sony G Lenses, “Exmor R” CMOS sensors, “BIONZ” processors
  • 3D or 2D HD recording with double full HD 1920×1080 video recording and 7- megapixel still image capture in photo mode (2D)
  • View contents in 3D on the 3.5“ WIDE 3D/2D Xtra Fine with TruBlack technology LCD (1229K) without needing 3D glasses
  • 64GB of internal flash memory, for 60p/24p recording capability in 2D
  • Optical SteadyShot w/ Active Mode and iAuto even in 3D
  • 10x optical zoom in 3D (12x in 2D), 17x Extended Zoom
  • Event Browse for automatic grouping of content by events and Highlight Playback & Highlight Share (2D only) to create highlight reels automatically
  • Built-in mic w/ 5.1ch surround system, Clear Phase stereo speakers with S- Master technology, wind noise reduction, mic/HP jack, and audio level meter
05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Christopher MacManus
POSTED IN

Cameras/Camcorders, CES, Hardware

DISCUSSION 6 Comments

The New All in One VAIO L Touch HD PC/TV

Today Sony released all new and redesigned VAIO L (it’s about time!). The new Sony VAIO® L Series Touch HD PC/TV features a stunning 24-inch multi-touch screen enabling intuitive touch access to the internet, TV, Blu-ray Disc™ movies and more. An interesting innovation, unique to the L series expands the touch functions to the LCD bezel itself featuring edge Access technology. With the help of this technology a user will be able to access every day short cuts enabling to quickly start up a desired program, flip through the web pages by swiping fingers on the bottom of the LCD bezel, zoom by touching the black glass sections along the edge of the VAIO L, close window, etc.
This new all-in-one will also feature a full HD LED backlight display panel, instant on functionality, an HD webcam, and white will be one of its available colors.
New VAIO L would be a perfect companion for your small bedroom or kitchen and can be used as a television set as well as a DVR. Select VAIO L models will sport a built-in TV tuner and Blu-ray Disc playback as well as recording capabilities. Like previous models, an HDMI out is included if you wish to expand your viewing experience by connecting it to a larger TV. With its HDMI in connection, you can pair it up with PS3 to enjoy gaming.
Unfortunately this first generation VAIO L is not a 3D PC, however expect Sony introduce that feature later in the year.
It is definitely a very stylish PC designed to easily blend with your home decor, the VAIO L Touch PC features a sleek V-shape stand and is wall-mountable for a slick, space-saving computing experience. It also comes with a stylish wireless keyboard and wireless mouse letting you work freely without cords, and optional keyboard skins in eye-catching colors.
It will be available for pre-orders and cost you around $1200. Watch out for hands on experience in our follow up posts.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION 1 Comment

Affordable Sony VAIO Y series

Another model was unleashed at Sony’s booth on the CES floor is VAIO Y series. As you may remember Sony introduced this model earlier however it had a 13.3″ LCD; this time around VAIO engineers decided to shrink its LCD LED backlit display to 11.6 inches preserving however its high brightness levels and clear, crisp picture quality. Backed by the new AMD® E Series processor and up to 4GB of RAM, this PC is powerful enough for the demands of daily basic computing yet portable enough for the frequent traveler.

An HDMI output will enable you to connect this notebook to a bigger LCD HD and you can pretty much use it to browse websites, check your facebook and tweet from your coach.

It’s a pretty affordable, low end notebook will be a good companion to any student or someone who wants to have a smaller form factor notebook for blogging and looking up information online.

Expect VAIO Y series to ship in February for about $550.

05
Jan 2011
POSTED BY Stan M
POSTED IN

CES, Hardware, Vaio

DISCUSSION 2 Comments
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