Sony has begun pre-sales of the NEX-VG10 Interchangeable Lens HD Camcorder. According to the company, the new NEX-VG10 is the world's first consumer camcorder with interchangeable lenses and the first Handycam camcorder to feature an extra-large Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor.

"The NEX-VG10 takes Sony's Handycam line to the next level by allowing unprecedented artistic expression that isn't possible with conventional consumer video cameras," said Andy Bubala, director of Sony's camcorder business. "With this camcorder, video enthusiasts and photographers can now capture cinematic full HD movies and premium stereo sound."

Sony's NEX-VG10 Interchangeable Lens HD Handycam Camcorder is equipped with the same Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor used in the "NEX-5" and "NEX-3" digital cameras and compatible with the high grade "E-mount" series of smaller, lighter lenses optimized for video shooting with silent operation and AF. It is also compatible with a wealth of "A-mount" interchangeable lenses used by Sony's existing alpha DSLR camera lineup via a mount adapter (sold separately), including Sony G Lenses and Carl Zeiss branded lenses.

Coupled with Sony's BIONZ processor, the camcorder's Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor realizes high resolution video and 14 megapixel still images. Approximately 19.5 times bigger than the standard sensor found in conventional camcorders (according to the company), the APS HD CMOS sensor enables a shallow depth of field. This is designed to allow videographers to achieve cinematic results with high quality background defocus (bokeh). Users can also enjoy DSLR-quality photo capture with features like Auto HDR, Handheld Twilight, and Anti Motion Blur, as well as catch fast action sequences with a continuous burst rate of up to seven fps.

The NEX-VG10 can capture full 1920×1080 high definition video at up to 24Mbps, ideal for recording on to Blu-ray Disc media. It also comes with an E-mount 18-200mm lens optimized for video shooting that offers an 11x optical zoom in addition to a silent auto-focus system and Optical Steadyshot image stabilization with Active Mode for versatility.

Sonically, the NEX-VG10's Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone uses processing algorithms to combine signals from four individual microphone capsules, designed to produce stereo audio with high directional response, allowing videographers to capture more sound from their subject and less background noise. The camcorder also features dedicated inputs for optional external microphones and headphones to monitor sound levels.

According to the company, the camcorder's TruBlack technology brings higher contrast and brightness to its 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD swivel display, delivering more natural, realistic colors and easier viewing in bright conditions. The LCD is supplemented by a high-resolution adjustable electronic viewfinder that helps framing, monitoring and capturing clear images.

The NEX-VG10 gives videographers a removable lens, a jog dial and hotkeys to navigate menus and adjust shooting parameters, including full manual control of Iris, Shutter Speed, Gain and White Balance.

Dual accessory shoes (Alpha Hot Shoe/Universal Cold Shoe) allow for still photography and video accessories, such as the ECM-CG50 shotgun microphone and external flash lighting. There's also a choice of rechargeable battery options, including the NP-FV100 that provides up to 315 minutes of continuous HD shooting (may vary), and a specially designed soft carrying case.

Included with purchase as a download voucher ($99 value), Sony Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum 10 video editing software includes tools for video compositing, color correction and sound mixing to produce HD movies. You can also share your creations via DVD, Blu-ray Disc media, or upload to the web all from one program.

The NEX-VG10 accepts both Memory Stick PRO Duo (including Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo) and SD (including both SDHC and SDXC formats) media. Users can record up to four hours of high definition footage (1920×1080, FH mode) when using the 32GB memory card.

Sony's Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX offers a 30MB per second transfer rate, which means Handycam users can upload video clips in a fraction of actual playback time.

Price and Availability

The NEX-VG10 will be available in September for about $2,000 and presales on www.sonystyle.com began on July 14. They will also be available at Sony Style retail stores and at authorized dealers nationwide.