VIDEO. The Sony HDR-MV1 takes good video. Pictures were a bit soft, which means it will be difficult to make out tiny details and very subtle patterns in the image. In low-light situations, the video was good, but not as bright or clear as better models.
AUDIO. It captures good audio in stereo.
PHOTO QUALITY. This model lacks the ability to capture still photos.
LENS. The lens has a fixed focal length; it has no zoom capability. The lens also has a very wide-angle (18mm) capability that's very useful for landscapes and group portraits, although you may notice a bit of distortion when you're shooting faces up close, for instance.
SPEED. It's quick at switching to video mode is fast, better than most models. It is also fast at waking up from standby mode, also better than most models.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS. Like most models, this camcorder does not include a viewfinder, which means you'll need to rely on the LCD monitor to compose your video or photo. It has a 2.8-inch LCD, which has very good quality that lets you easily compose your shots and has fine playback of photos and video. It has a hot shoe for attaching an external lamp, flash or directional microphone (generally sold separately). This high-definition model is smaller and lighter than most camcorders.
