Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
The Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder combines small form factor with professional design for a high-quality tool that can gather images practically anywhere without calling attention to itself. Much like the consumer equivalent HDR-CX550V, the HXR-MC50U captures 1920 x 1080 video at the full 24Mbps bit rate possible in the AVCHD format. That means smooth, high-resolution HD video that captures every detail recorded through the camera's 10x wide-angle zoom lens.
Distinguishing the HXR-MC50U is the addition of an ECM shotgun microphone (with holder), a large lens hood, and a high-capacity battery for extended shooting times. The changes also extend to the inside, in the form of increased image control via an assignable dial that gives you manual control over focus, exposure, white balance, iris, and shutter speed. USB 2.0 connectivity plus HDMI output to any HDTV let you easily edit and present your video to its best advantage.
| Signal System |
NTSC AVCHD: 1080 - 59.94i/60i MPEG-2: 480 - 59.94i/60i |
| Image Device |
1/2.88" Exmor R Sensor (2nd-generation, back-illuminated) 6.6MP - Active 4.15MP (16:9), 3.11MP (4:3) |
| Lens |
10x G Lens 29.8-298mm (35mm Equivalent), f/1.8-3.4 120x Digital Zoom 37mm Filter Thread |
| Horizontal Resolution | 1080 Lines |
| Sensitivity | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Minimum Illumination | 3 lux (Low LUX mode, 1/30 shutter) |
| Built-in Filters | None |
| LCD Monitor | 3.5" Xtra Fine |
| Viewfinder | 0.27" Color, 2MP |
| Memory Card Slot |
MemoryStick PRO Duo SD/SDHC |
| Shutter Speeds |
Scene Selection: 1/8 - 1/725 STD: 1/60 - 1/725 Low Lux: 1/30 - 1/725 Smooth Slow Rec: 1/240 - 1/1000 |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Formats |
HD: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 (AVCHD) SD: MPEG-2 PS |
| Recording Rate |
AVCHD FX (24Mbps) 1920 x 1080/60i AVCHD FH (17Mbps) 1920 x 1080/60i AVCHD HQ (9Mbps) 1440 x 1080/60i AVCHD LP (5Mbps) 1440 x 1080/60i MPEG2 SD HQ (9Mbps) 720 x 480/60i |
| Built-in Memory | 64GB Internal Flash Memory |
| Maximum Recording Time |
6 hours in AVCHD FX Mode (@24Mbps) 48 hours in SD HQ Mode (@9Mbps) |
| Audio | |
|---|---|
| Audio Dynamic Range | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Audio Signal Format | AC3 2-channel (default) or AC3 5.1-channel |
| Audio Frequency Response | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Input and Output Connectors |
Composite/S-Video/Audio/Component/Remote: A/V Remote multi-pin connector (x1 Output) HDMI (x1 Output) USB 2.0 (x1 Input/Output) Microphone: 3.5mm (x1 Input) Headphone: Stereo Mini jack |
| Power Requirements | 8.4V / 6.8V (battery) |
| Power Consumption | 3.4W (max) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.3 x 2.9 x 6.9" (8.5 x 7.4 x 17.6 cm) - w/supplied hood |
| Weight | 1 lb (470g) - w/supplied hood, microphone |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Most Liked Positive Review
This is a Great Little Camera!
I hope this helps!
This is a great little camera! Given the newly updated backlit Exmor R CMOS sensor, you get brilliant, full-quality HD results. I have imported (ingested) captu...Read complete review
I hope this helps!
This is a great little camera! Given the newly updated backlit Exmor R CMOS sensor, you get brilliant, full-quality HD results. I have imported (ingested) captured AVCHD footage into MAC/Final Cut Express v4.x via the Log and Transfer process (using Apple Intermediate Codec 1920x1080/60i via Easy Setup in Final Cut) and into Adobe Premiere with no problems, but you need to perform these functions with the camera attached via USB and in Play Mode. If you want to import footage directly via SDHC card and media reader, you will need to use a re-wrapper/transcoder software tool for the Mac, as it can either wrap Sony's .mts/m2ts formatted files to H.264 AVCHD quicktime .MOV files without loss or transcode to the Apple Intermediate Codec (AIC) without loss. By the way, this is something you would need to do with other AVCHD cameras on the market too. This is mainly a 1920x1080 resulting camera. If you wish to use one of the lower HD settings (720p equivalent) you may also use one of the other Apple Intermediate Codecs (AIC) via Log & Transfer.
I find the Smooth Slow Record feature valuable for those that do not perform post production editing. Its clear and I have not experienced any stutter.
You can add a video light, but not via the hot-shoe, if utilized by the included shotgun microphone. You can purchase a camera mount extension and a battery pack version light source. It uses mini-pin jack for its shotgun mic, which has good quality sound recording. However you can use an phantom-powered, mini-pin-to-XLR camcorder audio adapter for professional balanced audio via another mic source. Cons: You can add 37mm UV filter to protect the lens, but the lens hood must be removed. Sony still hasn't given us a hood which allows for a filter to be directly affixed to it. However, you can affix an aftermarket hood which allows for filters, so its not much of a negative.
The manual options are good too. The ability to shoot video manually is critically important during events. This was a main concern before purchasing this camera. Sony has provided a good set of features to manually control.
Regarding external memory cards, I recommend a minimum of either a 16GB or 32GB SDHC memory card (Class 6 or above) to handle the read/write access of video content. I use Class 10 SDHC cards rated at 30Mbps read/write access.
Shooting at the highest HD format of HDFX (24Mbps) on a 16GB SDHC card, I get about 1.5 to 2.0 hours of footage and approx. 3.0 plus/minus footage hours on the 32GB memory card.
Please be sure to purchase a second battery, as you will need it if shooting an event, such as a wedding or a documentary.
This is a great camera for those starting out wanting an incredibly, small camera with excellent HD quality. You can down-convert HD footage to SD footage...which is better quality than regular SD captured footage. I use this camera as a secondary event HD camera...either as a POV, backup, or when I need a small form factor and footprint due to limited shooting space. The nightshot addition with 0 lux is excellent too.
I highly recommend this camera for both starters and seasoned experts as part of their video shooting arsenal!
- WBMP
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Most Liked Negative Review
Almost a pro camera in a mini package
I bought this camera as a backup to the Sony Z5 and was pleased to find many of the features that I recognized squeezed into this small package. With the microphone included it is a...Read complete review
I bought this camera as a backup to the Sony Z5 and was pleased to find many of the features that I recognized squeezed into this small package. With the microphone included it is a great priced package for someone who works mostly in automatic mode.
Iris, focus and a host of other functions are included on a single dial with a nifty button to switch between functions. This almost gives the functionalitity of the three standard lens rings on a pro-camera except that you cannot get full manual control of exposure. You can set one of iris, shutter speed or exposure but the camera automatically controls the other parameters. In keeping with this auto-exposure limitation there was no zebra feature to detect over-exposure.The mutli-function dial, being located near the base of the camera and behind the lcd display is also difficult to operate when using a tripod.
The zoom speed varies according to pressure. This was difficult to control on a small button, but since I use zoom to change between shots, not as a substitute for a dolly, I liked the fast mode.
The custom white balance was a step up from consumer models, but notably lacked a Kelvin value reading. When working with other cameras as I intended this would be a limitation. It has a white balance shift function to nudge the white balance setting manually but I'm not sure how this would be used without the Kelvin value.
Picture quality seemed reasonable and it worked in relatively low light conditions with nothing but household lighting.
Reviewed by 115 customers
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Very simple to use...point and shoot. I like the fact that you can use it right out of the box or set it up to meet specific shooting situations. It has so many of the features pro's expect from a camera like this. Very versatile.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
I use this product for professional high deff video. I found the camera to be very portable, light weight, and easy to use. Unfortunately it lacked in the professional quality that I required. I resolution over all is excellent but something just seems missing.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Use this camera for outdoor filming. Very compact and gives clear HD. The manual focus could be larger.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
I'm about to graduate from college, and needed my own camera to jump start my career. I had a very limited budget, so I wanted a camera that could be meet my expectations at a reasonable cost.
This camera does it. I love how you can choose to manually control almost anything (hate that touch screen though). I haven't quite figured out the boom mic yet, but the on board audio is pretty decent.
Certainly not at all up to standard of the pro gear I use at school, (no iris control or zebra pattern, and the manual focus knob reminds me of driving in a screw with my finger tips) but I am totally impressed with this little Sony for the price I paid. Perfect for beginner like me. Would highly reccomend.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
This camera is being used semi-professionally for plays and other live shots at a small girls school. So far, so good. The only issue I have is with the shotgun mic - I wish it was attached a little better. Seems 'loose'...
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
I teach video production at a state college. This is a great little camera for introductory classes. Intuitive and easy to use, with a load of options for students to explore without overloading them from the start. Vibrant display, full square pixel HD images and solid H.264 compression. Using the supplied shotgun mic will give you decent audio as well.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
We use it for soccer games, travel, photos! and a lot more. It is compact and light to bring around with an impressive shots-video or still. I have no negative about it except the ergonomic handling- my wrist sometimes experience fatique when shooting for a long period of time.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
As the manual states: "If you set either one of [EXPOSURE], [IRIS],
or [SHUTTER SPEED], the settings of other 2
items are canceled."
And so add to the above the fact that the camera does not have an ND filter.
This means that if you are trying to create a shallow depth of field in bright sunlight, the camera compensates by automatically raising your shutter speed (the fast shutter speed then affects how motion appears in your image). You want to be able to use a wide open aperture and use an ND filter to cut down light and not have the camera constantly changing your shutter speed.
Also, the camera cannot shoot progressive video (only interlaced) and it does not allow you to control the audio levels, besides a choice between two general categories, such as Normal or Low. No zebra stripes if you are used to using those stripes to help set your exposure.
Some great AUTO features if you like to use AUTO features or you need an "on the go" camera -- image stabilization is great -- but overall the camera does not provide enough truly independent manual controls.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Second field camera to other documentary/field cameras including Sony EX-3s. Easy operation for new users and great for talent to carry for "behind- the-scenes" and run and gun interviews. Quality can be achieved and perfect for low-profile shooting with out a huge sacrifice in image.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Could not use for video streaming.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Have the people who aren't pleased with the low light performance of this camcorder tried the "low lux" setting? It's amazing. I was shooting outdoors in almost no ambient light, and tried the low lux, and it was a huge difference from just the regular setting.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
I love the simplicity of this camera.
Additionally, the ease at which the movies are put into the video editing software is great.
The video quality is also amazing.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Purchased 2 cameras recently Sony HDR-AX2000 and this little jewel. For a back up camera or a camera that needs be small and still deliver a great image this is the one you need. I wouldn't make this the only camera in my arsenal due ti it's lack of audio control and image control but it is a great complimentary camera. When editing video that contains video from both cameras I'm amazed how great they look together.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Using it for event videography together with dslrs,
It's super handy in size but packs a punch on video quality.
Not so great in low light but then again for the price and size it's a given already and compensated by it's good audio.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
This a great entry into professional camcorders. Extremely user friendly and easy to set-up right from the start. I got the unit with the bonus DVD. What a great buy. As always B&H was fast on their end and everything was perfect.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
This camera is lightweight and small and is a great deal for its price point. Its easy to use right out of the box, the shotgun mic really sets it apart and it has tons of features and manual options - the only drawback is that most of them are accessible only through the touchscreen which can be slow and sometimes confusing.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Small, lighweight, takes great vids,and the sound is great too. I captured a friends blues band on it at an outdoor farmer's market, and the results were fantastic!
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
For weddings, small plays, interviews and indoor outdoor recreation.
Easy to carry around, not bulky, not heavy, easy to operate, easy to store. Great for on the move capture.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
Well worth the cost. As a high school video production teacher, this is a good rig to let students use. HD is fantastic, and SD is quality as well. Students can work with SD in Premiere and post product for school viewing, and can also work in HD for local commercials. Audio is solid. I plan on using a better shotgun mic in the future, and I don't know how it will integrate into the rig. So far, no complaints at all.
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Comments about Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder:
I use this camera to video training exercises. I've only had it a couple weeks, but it seems to provide great quality. I was happily surprised with the zoom mic that comes with it - you can hear a fly sneeze! The only thing I have seen that is missing, is that it does not have a recording gauge to see or adjust the quality of the sound. It is small in size and great for travel, and is a great digital "prosumer" option at a low cost.
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