Sony is proud to present a stunning HD camera and recorder that represents the last piece of the HD video production jigsaw. The HXR-MC1P is an easy to use HD camera system, consisting of a small camera head and a handheld controlling unit with LCD panel and recording function.

This tiny all-in-one camera system needs no extra equipment - simply take it out and start shooting. Also, the camera unit is splash-proof, allowing safe use in tough outdoor conditions, such as rain or when you are shooting near water.

Furthermore, the unique style of the HXR-MC1P enables users to record HD video in unusual conditions and from interesting angles, such as shooting a sports scene from the participant's point of view or a motor sport event from onboard a vehicle. Thanks to the built-in LCD panel on the main unit, users can play back and review their material immediately after it has been shot.

The HXR-MC1P camera and recorder opens up a whole new range of creative HD shooting possibilities.

1080i Compact HD Camera

Even though it is equipped with a full HD shooting (1920 x 1080i) capability, a 10x optical zoom and a built-in microphone, the camera is compact, measuring only 37 x 42.5 x 86.5 mm (1 1/2 x 1 11/16 x 3 1/2 inch).

Exmor™ CMOS Sensor - Cutting-edge Image Sensor Technology

The HXR-MC1P uses a 1/5-inch "Exmor" CMOS sensor, which is also used in Sony professional camcorders and high-end D-SLR cameras. This achieves low noise thanks to multiple micro A/D (analogue to digital) converters.

The image sensor in the HXR-MC1P also uses the ClearVid pixel array, which has 45-degree rotated pixels. This unique layout offers high picture quality while keeping low-light sensitivity.

Long-time HD or SD Recording to Memory Stick PRO Duo™

Memory Stick PRO Duo offers the optimum recording media for the compact HXR-MC1P recorder. In addition, the highly efficient compression methods used in both HD and SD modes achieve long recording times, which make the most of Memory Stick PRO Duo's storage capacity.

In HD recording mode, video is recorded in AVCHD, which uses MPEG-4 AVC/ H.264 compression - the same method used in Blu-ray Disc™.

If SD recording mode is selected, video is recorded in MPEG-2.

All-in-one Recording Unit and Battery Operation Expands Shooting Flexibility

Recording and playback are both possible via the control unit of the HXR-MC1P. You don't need any external recorder/player. Maximum battery operation of up to 405 minutes* is available thanks to the use of the Exmor CMOS sensor. This means you can shoot anytime, anywhere without having to worry about power supply.

* Continuous recording with the optional NP-FH100 battery (LCD backlight = OFF). With ordinary use, with frequent recording start/stop and zooming etc., this will reduce to approximately 200 minutes.

Remote Monitoring and Control

The control unit has a 2.7-inch (16:9), 211,000-pixel LCD panel that uses ClearPhoto LCD plus, which enables you to instantly review the images captured by the camera. Furthermore, all menu settings can be accessed via this touch-screen LCD panel.

The control unit is also equipped with a recording button, zoom lever and manual control dial, which let you control the camera remotely while watching the images.

With the HXR-MC1P, it is easy to shoot in a way that is impossible with ordinary camcorders. No special equipment, such as an external monitor or remote control device, is required.

Live Relay/Recording

The control unit of the HXR-MC1P has connectors for both HDMI output and analogue video output. By using a commercially available HDMI/HD-SDI converter or an A/D converter, you can also make live relays or recordings using HD-SDI signals.

The HXR-MC1P can help you achieve unique and powerful images during live events, by mounting it close to the action - such as inside the goal during a football match or near the hands of a musician during a concert.

The HDMI and analogue video connector can output SD signals if the recording mode of the HXR-MC1P is set to SD.

Compact and easy to mount

The HXR-MC1P can record 1080i HD or SD images and sound in places that no ordinary HD camcorder can access.

It is possible to attach it to various devices, such as a helmet, by utilising the screw hole at the bottom of the unit*. This enables you to obtain HD images from angles that you have only experienced in SD before.

And the camera is splash-proof as well, making it suitable for outdoor use. It can be used at the water's edge or in the rain**

*Sony does not provide any special mounting equipment.

**Only the camera unit conforms to IEC60529 IPX2. Under no circumstances must it be used under water. Do not allow the control unit to get wet as it has no splash-proof features.

Suitable for a variety of sporting applications

With the HXR-MC1P, it's possible to capture powerful visuals of motor sport events that gives the viewer the drivers or riders point of view. Because the camera is so small, you have a greater choice of where to mount it on the vehicle body. And by using an optional wide angle conversion lens, you can even get detailed shots of the cramped interior of a car.

Alternatively, if you're shooting while taking part in extreme sports such as skydiving, paragliding, or skateboarding, it is often hard to check the images you're recording.

With the HXR-MC1P, even if you attach the camera to your helmet, you can easily check the shooting angle using the LCD panel of the control unit and adjust the angle of view with the zoom lever. Once the recording to Memory Stick Duo™ has started, simply activate the control unit's HOLD switch to prevent any operating error, put the control unit into your backpack or a pocket and get going!

Ideal for shooting wildlife

The tiny camera of the HXR-MC1P is also good for shooting small animals and insects. The small size of the camera makes it ideal for shooting wild animals, which can be very nervous around camera equipment in their natural environment.

Plus, with a continuous recording time of about 405 minutes (6 hours 45 minutes)*, the camera can be left for long periods to ensure you capture the right footage. You can also slide the camera through grass and foliage to capture the insect world.

* Continuous recording with the optional NP-FH100 battery (LCD backlight = OFF). With ordinary use, with frequent recording start/stop and zooming etc., this will reduce to approximately 200 minutes.

Perfect for POV images

Images taken from the viewpoint of operators with special skills, such as process engineers, can be used for simulation material or for training material to help others acquire such skills. Also, the recorded video can be used to analyse the actions or the action pathways made by a person or object carrying the camera.