Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E (Camcorders)

Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E
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from £1197.98

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Product Age Average review date: 13-03-2009

Rank 198 

alaScore 84

84100

179 reviews

May, 2012

Expert Reviews (25)

User Reviews (154)

Sony HDR-HC9E

By Nick (reevoo.com) Read the full review

Excellent colour and clear picture

Reviewer left no comment

Mar, 2011 2011-03-06   4.5

Sony HDR-HC9E

By Nigel (reevoo.com) Read the full review

Image quality, AF especially peaking facility, exposure control, LCD screen with histogram

Manual control wheel fairly ineffectual, Manufacturer back up worse than useless

Apr, 2010 2010-04-14   4.5

Sony HDR-HC9E

By Ruth (reevoo.com) Read the full review

ease of use, fantastic picture quality, long life of battery

no attachment points for strap to hang around neck when not using a tripod

Mar, 2010 2010-03-05   4

Videos

09:27

Sony HDR-HC9 MiniDV HD Handycam Camcorder

Manufacturer's Description

Record your memories in HD brilliance. The HDR-HC9 MiniDV HD Handycam Camcorder delivers high definition quality and versatility with a professional grade Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens, 10x optical/20x digital zoom, and a 3.2 megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor for stunning video and 6.1 megapixel still images. Use the Dual Record Mode to capture still images and video at the same time, while Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization helps ensure clear images. View everything you shoot on the...

Showing 1 - 10 of 13 Show Reviews: in English | in other languages (12)

Review summary for the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E

By (alaTest Reviews)

alaTest has collected and analysed 179 reviews from magazines and websites. Reviewers really like the portability. The usability is also mentioned favorably, whereas the features and battery get less positive ratings. Reviews are divided on the value for money.

We analysed user and expert ratings, product age and more factors. Compared to other Camcorders the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E is awarded an overall alaScore™ of 84/100 = Very good quality.

May, 2012 2012-05-16 alaScore 84 4.2

Sony HDR-HC9E HDV Camcorder

By James Morris (trustedreviews.com)

Sony's HDR-HC9E camcorder remains loyal to the tape-based HDV format, so how does it stack up against the competition?

Sony has consistently been dumbing down its high-end consumer HD camcorders. Where the HDR-HC1E was an enthusiast's dream come true, its successors have increasingly focused on ease of use over semi-professional features. Although the HDR-HDC9E offers...

The Canons also have more features for the budding professional, as well. So the HDR-HC9E is a great high-end choice for point-and-shoot HD video, but not one for more serious usage.

Mar, 2008 2008-03-08   4

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Sony HDR-HC9

By Edouard Maire (digitalversus.com)

Launched in 2004 by Sony, Canon, JVC and Sharp, High Definition Video (HDV) was the first HD format designed for consumer camcorders. HDV is based on the Mpeg-2 codec with a speed of 25 Mbps. Footage is recorded in a resolution of 1440 x 1080 pixels,...

Microphone entry ; Good picture quality when filming outdoors ; HDV format versatile for post-editing ; Good range of connections ; Viewfinder

Linear recording to cassette ; Small LCD

This HDV camcorder records good-quality HD footage. In fact, it's equally as good as some AVCHD models in this field. It has a good range of connections and is fairly easy to use. It all depends whether MiniDV tapes still float your boat.

The HDV format is recorded to MiniDV cassettes, and recording and playback are both linear. Whereas AVCHD flash-based or HDD camcorders only take a few minutes to transfer footage, linear HDV can take quite a lot longer.

Jul, 2010 2010-07-23   3

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Sony HDR-HC9E Camcorder Review

By (gadgetheaven.co.uk)

Designed for video enthusiasts, the Sony HDR-HC9E offers outstanding 1080 High Definition video quality and advanced functionality.

This will then give you a list of accessories for that model including microphones.

Feb, 2009 2009-02-28   3

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Sony HDR-HC9E

By James Morris (pcpro.co.uk)

After only a couple of years, the tape-based HDV format is beginning to hum its swansong - it was, after all, a transitional move between DV and high definition. Sony is still releasing HDV products, though, and the HDR-HC9E is the latest in a line of...

Sony's characteristically good image quality, but not quite enough manual features to compete with more enthusiast-oriented HDV models.

Mar, 2008 2008-03-01   3.4

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Sony HDR-HC9E

By (channelpro.co.uk)

Can HDV camcorders still compete with newer technologies? James Morris finds out.

Mar, 2008 2008-03-31 No rating -0.1

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Sony HDR-HC9

By Chris Jager (goodgearguide.com.au)

The tape-based HDV camcorder is an increasingly rare beast. Despite delivering arguably the best image quality of any video format, it has been all bu...

Superb 1080i image quality, loads of manual features, reliable build quality, intuitive user interface

Not much has changed since last generation's HDR-HC7

If you prefer the familiarity and reliability of HDV tape, the Sony HDR-HC9 is one of the best (and only) options on the market. Sticklers for value may want to check out Canon’s HV30 though — it's every bit as good, yet cheaper.

Jan, 2009 2009-01-27   4

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Sony Mini DV camcorder a rare beast

By Chris Jager (news.com.au)

WITH Mini DV's being replaced by the more convenient AVCHD, the HDR-HC9 may be Sony's final foray in the high definition Mini DV market.

Superb 1080i image quality, loads of manual features, reliable build quality, intuitive user interface

Not much has changed since last generation's HDR-HC7

If you prefer the familiarity and reliability of HDV tape, the Sony HDR-HC9 is one of the best (and only) options on the market. Sticklers for value may want to check out Canon's HV30 though - it's every bit as good, yet cheaper.

Feb, 2009 2009-02-08   4

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Camcorder Review Sony HDR-HC9 HDV Camcorder

By Greg Robinson (videomaker.com)

Sony's new HC9 looks and feels a lot like last year's HC7, all in all a good thing. The design proves to be solid and usable, and it captures good images. For some users, the very best feature is one you can take out and hold in your hand: tape

Tape-based for easy archival Wide array of manual controls Great image quality

Lens hood obstructs flash and IR light Small Cam Control wheel Curious menu layout

A robust, flexible camera. Good choice for those who want their video on tape.

Sep, 2008 2008-09-20 No rating -0.1

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Sony HDR-HC9 Camcorder Review

By David Kender (camcorderinfo.com)

The Sony HDR-HC9 is a minor update from last year's HDR-HC7. This high definition camcorder records to tape in the HDV format, which continues be the format of choice for those who prize video quality over the convenience of flash media, HDD, and DVD....

The Sony HDR-HC9 is a good high definition camcorder. It's also Sony's only 2008 HDV model, so your only other choice is to go back to 2007 or earlier if you want to stay in the Sony family (our standing recommendation is the 2005 HDR-HC1).

However, the base performance and upgrades of this year's Canon HV30 makes it a very, very strong choice. Once again, it's a tight race. Neither camcorder is perfect. Sony tops out in durability and ease of use, while Canon wins on performance and...

Feb, 2008 2008-02-25   2.8

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Sony HDR-HC9 Camcorder Review

By David Kender (reviewed.com)

The HDR-HC9 is a high definition camcorder recording in the tape-based HDV format. Though it may not have the cutting edge "shininess" of Sony's other HD models this year, tape remains the format that offers the highest video quality. The HDR-HC9 finds...

The Sony HDR-HC9 has some advantages over the Canon HV30, such as a sturdier build and better ease of use. Canon's better video quality and options for 24P and 30P recording are hard to pass up, however. Neither is a perfect camcorder, and each has...

Feb, 2008 2008-02-28 No rating -0.1

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Showing 1 - 10 of 10 Show Reviews: in English | in other languages (12)
Review this product! Write a review

alaTest has collected and analysed 4 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from amazon.co.uk. The user reviews were collected from Mar, 2009 to Jul, 2009. The average user rating from amazon.co.uk is 100 out of 100.

  4 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analyzed 1 user review of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from dooyoo.co.uk. This user review was collected in 2009-05-20, with a rating of 80 out of 100.

Quotes

Sony Handycam HDR-HC9: Sony HD Video Camera

Used one of these HD cameras for my university assignment. I borrowed it from the Media Department in the library because there was no way i could aff

  1 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 7 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from reevoo.com. The user reviews were collected from May, 2008 to Mar, 2011. The average user rating from reevoo.com is 86 out of 100.

Quotes

Sony HDR-HC9E

Excellent colour and clear picture Reviewer left no comment

Sony HDR-HC9E

Image quality, AF especially peaking facility, exposure control, LCD screen with histogram Manual control wheel fairly ineffectual, Manufacturer back

Sony HDR-HC9E

ease of use, fantastic picture quality, long life of battery no attachment points for strap to hang around neck when not using a tripod

Sony HDR-HC9E

Easy to use and the build quality is fantastic Reviewer left no comment

  7 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 6 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from cnet.com. The user reviews were collected from May, 2008 to Aug, 2011. The average user rating from cnet.com is 70 out of 100.

Quotes

Outstanding images, versatile, professional features

A great HD video camcorder with lots of features found in professional camcorders. Lots of existing accessories and add-on equipment available. Lots o

Day 1: it's great

I'm an average consumer who likes to shoot video of the kids and family events, and edit on the PC to make short videos. I wanted top quality video im

Day 1: it's great

I'm an average consumer who likes to shoot video of the kids and family events, and edit on the PC to make short videos. I wanted top quality video im

Disappointment

The HC7 is better. Even though when editing, the properties say the resolution is 1440 x 1080. It just doesn't look good. Most articles will say this

  4 Users positive 2 Users negative

alaTest has collected and analyzed 1 user review of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from dell.com. This user review was collected in 2008-07-31, with a rating of 100 out of 100.

Quotes

Great Camcorder

great product Very nice picture quality, love the touch screen, I also like the fact that I can connect this to my HD tv with the HDMI connection Wou

  1 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 7 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from sonystyle.com. The user reviews were collected from Dec, 2008 to Dec, 2009. The average user rating from sonystyle.com is 100 out of 100.

Quotes

Get one if you can

I moved from the HC1, to the HC7, and now the HC9. WOW what a camera. The picture quality on the TV is amazing. Camera has taken a tripod fall and act

Get one if you can

I moved from the HC1, to the HC7, and now the HC9. WOW what a camera. The picture quality on the TV is amazing. Camera has taken a tripod fall and act

Excellent Consumer Camcorder

This is one of the best consumer video cameras available. The mini-dv format provides far superior quality than using a hard drive camera. Excellent

"Santa" came through!

"Excellent HD camcorder. The LANC jack is one of the major reasons I bought it. Camcorder is great especially when I paired it with Sony's VCT-870RM r

  7 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 46 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from amazon.com. The user reviews were collected from Jan, 2008 to Sep, 2010. The average user rating from amazon.com is 84 out of 100.

Quotes

hdr-hc9 great camera, pricing misleading

hdr-hc9 great camera, pricing misleading sony hdr-hc9 comcorder,great camera but I noticed the fine print had a $465 shipping charge. Did I see wrong?

SONY HDR-HC9 IS REALLY GREAT

SONY HDR-HC9 IS REALLY GREAT I been looking for a camcorder for 5 months and I did lots of research in that time, I was in favor of a Canon at first (

Outstanding buy

Outstanding buy Saved money over a new camera and it was in excellent shape and worked as good as the new product.

Specs Correction USB1.1 Not 2.0

Specs Correction USB1.1 Not 2.0 I'm on the verge of buying this camcorder after much research. It has most of the same features of my superb 10-year o

  44 Users positive 2 Users negative

alaTest has collected and analyzed 1 user review of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from cameraworld.com. This user review was collected in 2008-08-27, with a rating of 100 out of 100.

Quotes

I would buy this product again

Before using the Sony HC9, I used a Panasonic three CCD camera. I would not go back to it. The picture quality of the Sony HC9 is fantastic. The color

  1 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 7 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from ciao.com. The user reviews were collected from Jan, 2009 to Jun, 2009. The average user rating from ciao.com is 94 out of 100.

Quotes

Sony HDR-HC9

The Sony HDR-HC9 is a minor update from last year's HDR-HC7 (Review, Specs, Recent News, ) (Review, Specs, Recent News, $1128.56). This high definitio

A lot of people enjoy

Power Amplifier HI-FI "is the power of our fans, and its output power in general are at the following 2X150 watts. Designed on a" beautiful tone and a

About this Sony digital camera reviews

Power Amplifier HI-FI "is the power of our fans, and its output power in general are at the following 2X150 watts. Designed on a" beautiful tone and a

Sony HDR-HC9, The Quality is Number One

See its development, it seems Sony HDR-HC9 camcorder this is the last Sony product that uses tape format or a format known as HDV. Camcorder body form

  7 Users positive

alaTest has collected and analysed 5 user reviews of the Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E from pricegrabber.com. The user reviews were collected from Jan, 2001 to Aug, 2008. The average user rating from pricegrabber.com is 84 out of 100.

Quotes

Great but not perfect

You would buy a SC-HMX10 if: - You are a consumer who is looking for HD and doesn't mind 720p, or prefer to record at 60fps - You do not like to have

Samsung SC-HMX10 High Definition Camcorder - SC-HMX10C

This is an amazing camcorder. Lens: The optics are very good. You can put in a 16GB SDHC card to extend this to allow 4-12 hours of HD video without

Great HD Quality In Daylight

I've been using this camcorder almost everyday for just over a month now. I have to say that I am impressed with almost everything about it. Most of a

SC-HMX10 8GB Camcorder (10x Opt, 20x Dig, 2.7" LCD)

I like it price, you can buy for around $450. You need first install CD applications and software, working with Windows Vista. Support even a Russian

  5 Users positive

Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E

Sony HDR-HC9 / HC9E: product specifications

Audio Input
Microphone Operation Mode
Stereo
Microphone Technology
Electret condenser
Type
Microphone
Battery
Battery Form Factor
Manufacturer specific
Manufacturer Battery Name
Sony NP-FH60
Camcorder Features
High Definition Video Support
1080i
Low Lux / Night Mode
 Yes
Widescreen Video Capture
Widescreen Video Capture
Camera Flash
Red Eye Reduction
Built-in
Type
Pop-up flash
Dimensions & Weight
Depth
13.8cm
Height
8.2cm
Weight
0.55kg
Width
8.2cm
Display (Projector)
Diagonal Size
2.7in
Diagonal Size (metric)
6.9cm
Display Form Factor
Rotating
Technology
TFT active matrix
Type
LCD display
Exposure Parameters
Shooting Programs
Beach / Candle / Fireworks / Landscape / Portrait mode / Snow / Sports lesson / Spotlight / Sunrise / Sunset / Twilight mode / Twilight portrait
Header
Manufacturer
Sony
Model
HDR-HC9E
Packaged Quantity
1
Product Line
Sony Handycam
Lens System
Lens Aperture
F/1.8-2.9
Max Focal Length
54mm
Min Focal Length
5.4mm
Optical Zoom
10
Type
Zoom lens
Optical Sensor
Camcorder Effective Still Resolution
3.04Megapixel
Camcorder Effective Video Resolution
2.2Mpix
Camcorder Sensor Resolution
3.2Mpix
Optical Sensor Size
1/2.9"
Optical Sensor Size (metric)
8.8 mm ( 1/2.9" ) / 8.8 mm ( 1/2.9 )
Optical Sensor Type
ClearVid CMOS
Sensor Qty
1CMOS
Optical System
Built-in Optical Image Stabilizer
Built-in/Built-in / Yes
Image Stabiliser
Optical (Super Steady Shot)
Storage Floppy Drive
Type
 None
Video Input
Analogue Video Format
PAL
Digital Video Format
MPEG-2
Digital Zoom
20
Faders
Black fader / Monotone fader / Mosaic fader / White fader
Media Type
Mini DV (HDV)
Shooting Modes
Digital photo mode
Special Effects
Cinematic / Flash Motion / Monotone / Mosaic / Negative Art / Old Movie / Pastel / Sepia / Skintone / Solarisation / Still / Trail
Still Image Format
JPEG
Type
Camcorder
Viewfinder
Image Aspect Ratio (camcorders)
16:9
Viewfinder Colour Support
Colour
Viewfinder Type
LCD monitor

Manufacturer's Description


Record your memories in HD brilliance. The HDR-HC9 MiniDV HD Handycam Camcorder delivers high definition quality and versatility with a professional grade Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens, 10x optical/20x digital zoom, and a 3.2 megapixel ClearVid CMOS sensor for stunning video and 6.1 megapixel still images. Use the Dual Record Mode to capture still images and video at the same time, while Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization helps ensure clear images. View everything you shoot on the 2.7" wide Clear Photo LCD Plus display featuring touch panel technology. Even save your still images directly to a Memory Stick PRO Duo media card (sold separately) to easily transfer and share your photos.

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