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Sony strengthens HDCAM line-up with launch of two studio VTRs (27/9/2006)

HDW-1800 and HDW-D1800 bring new levels of affordability and even more accessibility to the de-facto standard for HD production

Sony today announced that it is once again adding to its HDCAM range with the introduction of two new Video Tape Recorders (VTRs), the HDW- 1800 and HDW-D1800. With a feature-set optimized to offer a lower-cost entry point to the HDCAM family, the two models have been designed to offer the benefits of HDCAM to an even wider audience.

The HDW-1800 and HDW-D1800 feature the same HDCAM picture and sound quality for which the format has become globally renowned and they share many of the operational features of the existing HDCAM VTR line up. Both models operate at the frame rates necessary for international production, recording and replaying HDCAM at 1080/50i, 59.94i, 23.98PsF, 24PsF, 25PsF and 29.97PsF. The HDW-D1800 also adds MPEG IMX and Digital Betacam replay, to provide a smooth migration from standard definition to the world of High Definition.

In contrast to other studio VTRs within the HDCAM family and to increase the models' affordability, the HDW-1800 and HDW-D1800 feature a simplified control panel, without editing controls. The panel includes a compact LCD display for on-the-spot picture monitoring and access to set-up menus and frame accurate assemble, insert and pre-read editing is facilitated via 9-pin RS-422 control.

The video, audio and control interfaces have also been carefully selected to offer a strong balance of features and cost. Both models include HD-SDI input and output, SDI output and analogue composite output. An optional HKDW-105 i.LINK (HDV) input board can be installed for direct input of material from HDV camcorders and decks. An optional HKDW-104 720P converter board can also be installed to provide a 720/50P output when replaying 1080/50i or 25P HDCAM cassettes, or when upconverting from 625/50 MPEG IMX and Digital Betacam cassettes.

"The last 12 months have seen Sony strengthen the HDCAM line-up significantly, with the new HDW-F900R HDCAM camcorder and version 2 software for the HDW-750P being two good examples," said Peter Sykes, Product Manager at Sony Professional Solutions Europe.

"HDCAM sales around the world have now reached 27,000 units and with the introduction of the HDW-1800 and HDW-D1800, we're bringing the HDCAM experience to an audience who may have considered HDCAM to have been out of budget until now. This is a further demonstration of our commitment to the HDCAM format and its users around the world and is another step forward in our vision of High Definition for all."

The two new models join the HDW-2000, HDW-D2000 and HDW-M2000P HDCAM VTRs and the HDW-M2100P player.

First deliveries are scheduled for December 2006.

www.sonybiz.net

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