items - Sony HXR-MC50U Pro AVCHD Camcorder
It’s gratifying to know that manufacturers continue to improve the quality of handheld camcorders. We’ll probably see 4K handheld camcorders on the market in just a few years. The Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder is a stepping stone toward that goal.
The Sony HXR-MC50U Ultra Compact Pro AVCHD Camcorder packs professional quality features into a highly portable unit. The HXR-MC50U captures 1920 x 1080 video at 24Mbps, which is the maximum possible bit rate in the AVCHD format. While lots of handheld camcorders capture HD, many of them compromise audio quality. But not the HXR-MC50U; the HXR-MC50U features an ECM shotgun microphone that captures high-quality stereo sound. The camcorder also features a large lens hood and a high-capacity battery that won’t cut out on you before your work is done.
The HXR-MC50U has a wide variety of automatic settings, but professional videographers often prefer to use manual settings. That’s why this camcorder also allows manual control over focus, exposure, white balance, iris and shutter speed. Adjusting the iris lets you control depth of field, while adjusting the shutter speed lets you control motion blur.
The HXR-MC50U is built around a very sensitive 1/2.88” back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor which helps to reduce image noise while providing good low-light performance. A powerful BIONZ processor can apply Sony's Dynamic Range Optimizer to both video and still image capture, and also allows the camcorder to capture 8.3-megapixel still images while recording video. The camera can capture 12-megapixel still images when not shooting video.
The HXR-MC50U features a 10x optical zoom and 120x digital zoom, and Sony’s new Optical SteadyShot Active Mode provides three-way camera shake correction at all zoom settings. The wide-angle G-Lens, with a 35mm equivalent of 29.8-298mm, features a six-bladed iris that provides superior performance when capturing shallow depth of field.
An improved Quick AF autofocus system is twice as fast as Sony’s other compact camcorders, ensuring consistent focus lock in any shooting environment. A Smooth Slow Record mode increases the camera’s frame rate from 50 frames per second (fps) to 200 fps, allowing you to capture fast motion and play it back at ¼ speed without being choppy. A built-in GPS receiver lets you tag shooting locations and also sets the camcorder's clock to the proper time zone.
The HXR-MC50U features 64GB of embedded flash memory, which is enough to store up to 6 hours of high-definition video footage or up to 48 hours of standard-definition footage. The camcorder also accepts Memory Stick and SD/SDHC media. When it’s time to review your captured footage, you can see it quite clearly on the 3.5-inch widescreen LCD.
A USB 2.0 port lets you copy captured footage to a computer. But the HXR-MC50U also lets you copy footage directly to an external hard drive without using a computer. Why lug around a computer if you don’t have to? An HDMI output lets you review your captured footage on any HDTV.
Many years ago, I had a full-size VHS camcorder that was so big you had to rest it on your shoulder while shooting. The image quality was, of course, VHS. The HXR-MC50U is only one-third the size of that old camcorder—yet it puts it to shame in every respect.
Comments
07/13/2010 - 17:34.
Does enyone know if it will come able to record in PAL format? Thanks.
07/14/2010 - 15:17.
Hi- what is the difference between this camcorder and the Sony HDR-CX550V other than the included shot-gun mike and sun shade for the lens?
ken z
07/14/2010 - 16:22.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
07/15/2010 - 08:15.
Does enyone know if it will come able to record in PAL format? Thanks.
07/15/2010 - 08:22.
Hi- what is the difference between this camcorder and the Sony HDR-CX550V other than the included shot-gun mike and sun shade for the lens?
07/16/2010 - 09:45.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Hello,
You can transfer AVCHD footage from that camera to your MacBook Pro using the Log and Transfer feature in Final Cut Express. Please see chapter IV in the user manual of Final Cut Express 4 for further details.
This whitepaper is a full walk-trough on how to import AVCHD from a SONY Camera like the HXRMC50U.
pro.sony.com/bbsccms/assets/files/micro/nxcam/manuals/25704_NXCAM_FCP.pdf
I recommend a tool called Voltiac HD www.shedworx.com this is a download only product (demo available) not sold by B&H but it has helped many Finalcut users use AVCHD Cameras.
If you have any additional questions, please contact our Post Production Dept.
videoediting@bhphotovideo.com
C h u c k C a p r i o l a
Live Chat and E-Mail Sales Manager
B&H Photo-Video
Thank you, we appreciate your business.
07/20/2010 - 01:02.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
You cannot use log & capture only log and transfer !
In Final Cut Pro I use this camera
File---> log & transfer
click on file and add to queue it will then be imported to your final cut project
I hope it is same in final cut express for you great camera
07/20/2010 - 01:04.
buy it in europe
Does enyone know if it will come able to record in PAL format? Thanks.
07/26/2010 - 12:09.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Try Adobe Premiere Pro CS4, it has a feature where you can start up your project with AVCHD settings.
You can copy your files (.mts) from your Sony HXR-MC50U internal memory to your computer hard drive, then you import those files to your Premiere projects.
07/27/2010 - 17:57.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
the clips are not a format recognized by FCP, you should transfer them in ProRez422 with Mpeg Streamclip !!!!
07/27/2010 - 18:08.
Does enyone know if it will come able to record in PAL format? Thanks.
That would be "anyone."
07/27/2010 - 18:08.
So... does this camera not offer 24p mode as well as 60i? The specs don't mention it, but seems like an obvious oversight, if so.
07/27/2010 - 18:08.
Hi- what is the difference between this camcorder and the Sony HDR-CX550V other than the included shot-gun mike and sun shade for the lens?
07/27/2010 - 18:09.
Does enyone know if it will come able to record in PAL format? Thanks.
Keep in mind PAL relates only to SD format if shooting HD you don't
worry about PAL/NTSC issues!
07/27/2010 - 18:20.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Hello,
You can transfer AVCHD footage from that camera to your MacBook Pro using the Log and Transfer feature in Final Cut Express. Please see chapter IV in the user manual of Final Cut Express 4 for further details.
This whitepaper is a full walk-trough on how to import AVCHD from a SONY Camera like the HXRMC50U.
pro.sony.com/bbsccms/assets/files/micro/nxcam/manuals/25704_NXCAM_FCP.pdf
I recommend a tool called Voltiac HD www.shedworx.com this is a download only product (demo available) not sold by B&H but it has helped many Finalcut users use AVCHD Cameras.
If you have any additional questions, please contact our Post Production Dept.
videoediting@bhphotovideo.com
C h u c k C a p r i o l a
Live Chat and E-Mail Sales Manager
B&H Photo-Video
Thank you, we appreciate your business.
Hi, I've experienced this problem when I didn't format the memory card in the camera before shooting. Especially if you've used the memory card in another camera without reformating, this can prevent the transfer software from discovering the camera and all the files on the card appear as unreadable.
07/27/2010 - 18:22.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Hello,
You can transfer AVCHD footage from that camera to your MacBook Pro using the Log and Transfer feature in Final Cut Express. Please see chapter IV in the user manual of Final Cut Express 4 for further details.
This whitepaper is a full walk-trough on how to import AVCHD from a SONY Camera like the HXRMC50U.
pro.sony.com/bbsccms/assets/files/micro/nxcam/manuals/25704_NXCAM_FCP.pdf
I recommend a tool called Voltiac HD www.shedworx.com this is a download only product (demo available) not sold by B&H but it has helped many Finalcut users use AVCHD Cameras.
If you have any additional questions, please contact our Post Production Dept.
videoediting@bhphotovideo.com
C h u c k C a p r i o l a
Live Chat and E-Mail Sales Manager
B&H Photo-Video
Thank you, we appreciate your business.
Hi, I've experienced this problem when I didn't format the memory card in the camera before shooting. Especially if you've used the memory card in another camera without reformating, this can prevent the transfer software from discovering the camera and all the files on the card appear as unreadable.
07/27/2010 - 18:20.
All this and still not 24p!
07/27/2010 - 18:27.
The HXR-MC50P has been available in Europe long before the new HXR-MC50U and it records SD in PAL.
07/27/2010 - 18:27.
Typo! You say "...A Smooth Slow Record mode increases the camera’s frame rate from 50 frames per second (fps) to 200 fps..." but you also say it is not a PAL camera. So shouldn't that 50 fps be 60 fps?
07/27/2010 - 18:48.
It's basically the cx550v with a mic and it "looks" more professional.
BTW I just finished a major shoot using the 550v and couldn't be happier.
It's an amazing little guy.
07/27/2010 - 18:50.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
File and transfer for FCE or FCP but Imovie9 works as well and very reliable.
07/27/2010 - 19:17.
So what's the street price?
07/27/2010 - 19:35.
So what's the street price?
$1,499 USD
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=&sku=707153&Q=&is=REG&A=details
07/27/2010 - 19:44.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Try to capture with imovie and then import to F Cut.
07/27/2010 - 20:40.
So the Panny HMC40 (with 24p/30p/60p, manual controls, waveform monitor and 3CMOS) is a much better camera, right?
07/27/2010 - 20:59.
Will this camera be able to record with a microport (XLR)???
07/27/2010 - 21:46.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
Because your transferring files from a digital medium (an SD card) to a hard drive you need to import differently. Open FCP to a new sequence and insert the SD card,( if that's what you're recording to) into a card reader and then when the files show up, choose "Log and Transfer" instead of "Log and Capture". You'll see a list of files appear and you have to drag them into the lower bin for them to be available. Then it's business as usual, except you may have to make sure you are editing using the correct aspect ratio for widescreen.
07/27/2010 - 22:00.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAMfolder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
AVCHD will only work with the newest/latest Final Cut Express! good luck.
07/27/2010 - 22:23.
Anyone know what the frame rate is for still capture? I am safe to assume it is as fast as my 7d's at 8 fps...thanks
07/27/2010 - 23:05.
nice good looking..does it not have a hot shoe....for video light....? rajsingh90@hotmail.com
07/27/2010 - 23:19.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
try log and transfer in final cut (cmd shift 8)
07/27/2010 - 23:45.
I wonder why Sony blatantly refuses to support 24p.
Don't live in the past Sony...
Pietro Impagliazzo
Student DP
07/28/2010 - 00:08.
I wonder why Sony blatantly refuses to support 24p.
Don't live in the past Sony...
24 p is nice but why bother when you can shoot in 29.97 and in post make it look 24p but you can't make 24p look 29.97. Joe blow on the street (your customer/viewer) wouldn't be able to tell the difference.
07/28/2010 - 03:03.
B&H Reviewers:
Please always include these simple bits of very important information about camcorders:
-PAL, available or not?
-the model number of the battery (so I can see if they match the ones I have).
-Very near similar models.
-Price range right there on the review.
-one expanded picture of the product.
-type BY NAME of the mic input sockets (XLR, mini phone, etc?????).
You may be surprised that B&H info on line is a major source for product info, well beyond the confusing mfg. sites (BAD example is SONY), but these items are often left off, giving me more search time often to not find anything more than fluff.
Thanks, Charles
07/28/2010 - 06:21.
[quote=Bradley G.]
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
You have to use the TRANSFER program with FCP not the Import. It wont see it otherwise. I use the AVCHD format a lot for crashcams, etc, etc...should be very easy.
07/28/2010 - 06:39.
What are the camera's capabiities for outdoor shoots? I din't see any reference to that.
07/28/2010 - 09:48.
I just unwrapped this camera and have not been able to figure out how to import the video into my MacBook Pro. Any thoughts? I'm using Final Cut Express, but it won't recognize the file format to import and Finder says I don't have an application that will open the video files. In Finder I get a CLIPINF folder with several .CPI files. I also have a PLAYLIST folder with .MPL files and a STREAM folder with .MTS files. Any thoughts?
hello. take the files in the folder# stream..the mts files# ..and drag.. ore import them to the updated final cut/ liquid/ premiere..
regards Drfilm
Hello,
You can transfer AVCHD footage from that camera to your MacBook Pro using the Log and Transfer feature in Final Cut Express. Please see chapter IV in the user manual of Final Cut Express 4 for further details.
This whitepaper is a full walk-trough on how to import AVCHD from a SONY Camera like the HXRMC50U.
pro.sony.com/bbsccms/assets/files/micro/nxcam/manuals/25704_NXCAM_FCP.pdf
I recommend a tool called Voltiac HD www.shedworx.com this is a download only product (demo available) not sold by B&H but it has helped many Finalcut users use AVCHD Cameras.
If you have any additional questions, please contact our Post Production Dept.
videoediting@bhphotovideo.com
C h u c k C a p r i o l a
Live Chat and E-Mail Sales Manager
B&H Photo-Video
Thank you, we appreciate your business.
Hi, I've experienced this problem when I didn't format the memory card in the camera before shooting. Especially if you've used the memory card in another camera without reformating, this can prevent the transfer software from discovering the camera and all the files on the card appear as unreadable.
07/28/2010 - 11:14.
Wonderful as this camera may be - the dinosaurial arrogance and over-priced history of Sony has got to be overcome before those familiar with their style of business belly up and pay. That is my opinion.
07/28/2010 - 11:32.
The CX550v does have manual control over iris, shutter and serveral other things. You don't have control over gain at all, which I hate. I'm pretty sure this is just a CX550v dressed up with some extra plastic.
07/28/2010 - 11:41.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/674275-REG/Panasonic_HDC_TM700K.html
Does it come near the 3 chip quality of the Panny?
07/28/2010 - 11:51.
It is not about what Joe Blow would be able to see, it is about what Sony did not provide. Do you see the difference? No 60p, no 30p, no 24p --> fail.
07/28/2010 - 12:27.
Hi- what is the difference between this camcorder and the Sony HDR-CX550V other than the included shot-gun mike and sun shade for the lens?
07/28/2010 - 13:28.
I would like to replace my beloved VX2100 so my question is what do I get out of the HDIM Ports? dos it bypass the Compression? Do I Get full Quality? at What Frame Rate? Please advise on other similarly priced prosumer cameras with similar specs as this one. please. Thank you.
07/28/2010 - 15:33.
Hi, does anybody know the physical dimensions of this camcorder?
Thanks. Bee
07/28/2010 - 16:57.
Is there a telephoto lens attachment available fo this camera?
07/28/2010 - 19:56.
I'm very interested in this camcorder, but worried about compatability issues. I'm still new to video and I only have Premiere Elements. What are the issues with exporting to Elements and editing on a WinVista platform? I Just want to make sure before purchasing.
Thanks
07/28/2010 - 20:44.
It is not just a dressed up 550v. Besides the obvious hood and stereo mic, it has an extended capacity battery and more importantly comes with professional level software that alone is worth hundreds of dollars.
07/29/2010 - 07:08.
I've been looking for along time for a good alternative to my mini DV cams and it just keeps getting more and more confusing.
I was actually quite impressed with this camera until I discovered that there was no way to defeat the audio auto gain control and there was no way to adjust audio input. There was what appeared to be some sort of pad, listed in the menu as two settings "normal" and "low" (It may not have been those exact words but you get the idea)
They have this camera displayed in the Pro camera section. While I was impressed with the camera I was a little confused as to why it's displayed in the Pro section - either they just ran out of space in the consumer section or they don't want this camera sitting right next to the CX550.
If the Lens and/or sensor have also been improved it might be worth the extra $.
It's hard to tell in the store, especially when the two cameras are in different rooms.
But if I'm just paying more for that outboard mic I'll be disappointed.
If anyone has any specific info on optical improvements over the 550 I'd love to hear it.
onward.
07/29/2010 - 19:37.
Hi,
Can anyone tell me if this camcorder is supported with iMovie '08? Or will I have to invest in something like Final Cut Express? TIA. MPD
07/30/2010 - 18:45.
Hola saludos desde la ciudad de Aguascalientes Ags. Mexico a todo el personal que integra la gran familia B&H, desde que me inscribi en su pagina, no se han olvidado de un servidor,y he seguido de cerca toda la informacion que me mandan les agradezco de antemano que se tomen la molestia de mandarme la informacion de los difirentes articulos que ustedes manejan y con los precios mas acordes a las necesidades de estos dias tan dificiles en la economia de todos, disculpenme por escribir en español, pero se que entre su personal de atencion al cliente, siempre hay alguien que lo sepa hablar y traducir.
Mi pregunta es como puedo adquirir un articulo como los que ustedes manejan?, porque estoy interesado en una de las camaras que tienen en la informacion que me estan mandando, en este caso la camara compacta de Sony Modelo HXR-MC50UPRO, o la camara de Sony de lentes intercambiables nueva Modelo NEX-VG10 Handycam, si es posible comprarla como se tendria que pagar y como tendrian que enviarmela a Mexico? gracias por permitirme llegar hasta ustedes a travez de este medio de informacion, espero respuesta gracias reciban saludos desde la tierra de la gente buena Aguascalienytes Ags. Mexico
Post new comment