DSR-PD177 (DSRPD177) Three 1/3-inch Exmor ClearVid CMOS sensors 16:9/4:3 DVCAM camcorder
Overview
Class Leading Standard Definition Handheld Camcorder
The DSR-PD177 is simply the best standard definition handheld camcorder ever produced by Sony. It uses the same chassis as the state-of-the-art HVR-Z5E HDV Camcorder introduced in 2008 with many of the same advanced features, including the all-new high performance Sony G-Lens which combines a ClearVid array and advanced Exmor image-processing technology for class leading picture quality and low light performance.
The weight distribution and control layout of this chassis has set new ergonomic standards for handheld operation, while operational flexibility is further enhanced by support for the HVR-MRC1K Compact Flash Solid State recorder. In every respect, the DSR-PD177 is a natural successor to the legendary DSR-PD170P Camcorder for customers who need the highest performance and latest technology but don't currently have a requirement for High Definition.
DVCAM is the global standard for professional Standard Definition acquisition introduced by Sony as a higher performance, more reliable version of consumer DV while retaining full compatibility. Its advantages are further extended by a comprehensive product range, including Master Series VTRs tailored to broadcast requirements. Typical DVCAM applications range from wedding videography to corporate video and broadcast television. It is the ultimate ubiquitous digital broadcast and professional tape format.
The weight distribution and control layout of this chassis has set new ergonomic standards for handheld operation, while operational flexibility is further enhanced by support for the HVR-MRC1K Compact Flash Solid State recorder. In every respect, the DSR-PD177 is a natural successor to the legendary DSR-PD170P Camcorder for customers who need the highest performance and latest technology but don't currently have a requirement for High Definition.
DVCAM is the global standard for professional Standard Definition acquisition introduced by Sony as a higher performance, more reliable version of consumer DV while retaining full compatibility. Its advantages are further extended by a comprehensive product range, including Master Series VTRs tailored to broadcast requirements. Typical DVCAM applications range from wedding videography to corporate video and broadcast television. It is the ultimate ubiquitous digital broadcast and professional tape format.
Class-leading picture quality
Sony's 'G' Lens features unique optical technology, precisely optimised to complement the camcorder's advanced image-processing technology to deliver exceptional performance and expand your shooting possibilities. Set yourself apart from the competition with this exceptional camcorder.
Enhanced Creativity
The DSR-PD177 sets new standards for Standard Definition handheld camcorders with advanced creative features including a 25p Progressive Scan mode, Smooth Slow Recording and up to six independent Picture Profiles for a variety of different camera set-ups.
Proven Workflow
DVCAM is the world's leading professional standard definition format - widely supported, easy to work with and highly reliable. You don't need the latest generation software, computer or large amounts of storage to work quickly and efficiently with the DSR-PD177.
Ideal Design for Handheld Operation
ony has responded to customer feedback to create the ideal handheld camcorder chassis with an ergonomically designed body-weight balance and a carefully planned button layout that reduces operator fatigue. Improved protection for audio settings and independent rings for zoom, focus and iris demonstrate this attention to detail.
Affordability
DVCAM media is widely available and ideal not just for acquisition but low cost archival purposes as well. Sony DVCAM hardware also retains compatibility with ubiquitous consumer DV media. In addition, despite a wide range of advanced features, the DSR-PD177 has been designed for the same entry-level price range as its predecessor model - the DSR-PD170P.
Features
Sony's Exclusive High-performance G Lens
Discover the exceptional optical performance of Sony's G Lens. This sophisticated lens incorporates Sony's unique optical technology and unparalleled quality control. Moreover, it's been optimised to perfectly complement the camcorder's advanced image sensor and image-processing technology, thus expanding your shooting possibilities.
Express yourself more fully with the utmost precision of Sony's G Lens.
Express yourself more fully with the utmost precision of Sony's G Lens.
Major 'G' Lens Features on the DSR-PD177
The camcorder's 29.5mm wide-angle, 20x optical zoom 'G' Lens offers a field of view that's ideal for many shooting situations, ranging from broad landscape shots to close-up shots where it is difficult to obtain sufficient distance from the subject.
Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements reduce the chromatic aberrations caused by differences in light refraction to minimise colour fringing. The advanced 10-group, 15-element lens structure also includes three compound aspheric lenses for images that are crisp and clear, even when shooting at a high zooming ratio.
Advanced optical lens technology enables Sony's Exmor Sensor system realise sharper images with higher resolution and less noise, even when shooting in very low light.
The six-blade iris diaphragm is almost circular, which allows operators to incorporate creative background blur into their shots for beautiful visual effects.
Two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements reduce the chromatic aberrations caused by differences in light refraction to minimise colour fringing. The advanced 10-group, 15-element lens structure also includes three compound aspheric lenses for images that are crisp and clear, even when shooting at a high zooming ratio.
Advanced optical lens technology enables Sony's Exmor Sensor system realise sharper images with higher resolution and less noise, even when shooting in very low light.
The six-blade iris diaphragm is almost circular, which allows operators to incorporate creative background blur into their shots for beautiful visual effects.
Natural-touch Lens Operation
The ergonomic layout of the zoom, focus and iris control rings makes operation of these three functions possible with just one hand. A high-speed zoom mode is also available. The digital extender system increases the zoom ratio to approximately 30x. The exposure function is ideal for varied shooting environments that range from very dark to very bright, allowing easy one-handed control using single-ring operation.
Sony's Super SteadyShot system (optical) helps you achieve a stable picture, even when camera handling is unsteady.
Three built-in ND (Neutral Density) filters - 1/4, 1/16 and 1/64 - help to vary the depth of field with iris control.
Three built-in ND (Neutral Density) filters - 1/4, 1/16 and 1/64 - help to vary the depth of field with iris control.
Cutting-edge Imaging System With Exmor Technology
The DSR-PD177 boasts cutting-edge features including unique Exmor technology, which maximises the potential of the camcorder's imaging system. This includes the same column-parallel A/D conversion and dual noise-cancelling method used in Sony's top-of-the-line camera models. Multiple A/D (analogue to digital) converters on each pixel row convert analogue signals to digital as soon as they are generated, unlike traditional technology that only has one A/D converter on each chip.
Exmor technology helps eliminate the influence of external noise, which can often enter the signal chain during transfer to the A/D converter. As a result, you get high-quality digital signals with extremely low noise.
By adopting this groundbreaking technology, the Exmor Sensor system enables the DSR-PD177 to achieve a low light sensitivity of just 1.5 lux (At 1/25 shutter, auto iris and auto gain).
Exmor technology helps eliminate the influence of external noise, which can often enter the signal chain during transfer to the A/D converter. As a result, you get high-quality digital signals with extremely low noise.
By adopting this groundbreaking technology, the Exmor Sensor system enables the DSR-PD177 to achieve a low light sensitivity of just 1.5 lux (At 1/25 shutter, auto iris and auto gain).
Progressive Scan Mode
The DSR-PD177 provides SD-quality 25p footage. The 25p image captured by the sensor system is recorded as an interlaced signal by dividing each frame into two fields. This enables compatibility with current editing and monitoring equipment that only accept interlaced signals, while maintaining the quality of the 25p image.
Progressive scan mode is suitable for feature films, documentaries and music videos, where the content is required to have the filmic look.
Progressive scan mode is suitable for feature films, documentaries and music videos, where the content is required to have the filmic look.
Picture Profile
Up to six different picture set-ups, including gamma and colour settings, can be registered in the memory as a Picture Profile™. This labour-saving function allows operators to easily recall customised picture set-ups for various shooting conditions. It is also useful for matching footage shot at different times or for multi-camera operation.
Smooth Slow Rec
The Smooth Slow Rec function of the DSR-PD177 enables smooth slow-motion playback by capturing images 4x faster than normal (200 fields/s). In this mode, quad-speed images are captured for six seconds, stored in the built-in buffer memory, and then recorded to tape (in either DVCAM or DV format) as slow-motion pictures lasting 24 seconds.
This quad-speed image capture is the fastest speed available on any compact handheld camcorder.
Smooth Slow Rec is ideal for sports or nature photography, where the action can be viewed more easily in slow motion, and opens up many creative possibilities.
This quad-speed image capture is the fastest speed available on any compact handheld camcorder.
Smooth Slow Rec is ideal for sports or nature photography, where the action can be viewed more easily in slow motion, and opens up many creative possibilities.
Shot Transition Function
The Shot Transition™ function allows for smooth automatic scene transitions. After you have programmed a shot's START and END point settings (e.g., for zoom, focus, iris, gain, shutter speed and white balance) and pressed the start button, a smooth picture transition takes place over the duration of the shot by automatically calculating the intermediate setting values.
Transition types can be selected from a choice of LINEAR, SOFT STOP and SOFT TRANS, and transition time can be set from 3 to 90 seconds.
Transition types can be selected from a choice of LINEAR, SOFT STOP and SOFT TRANS, and transition time can be set from 3 to 90 seconds.
DVCAM/DV Selectable Recording
The DSR-PD177 adopts the DVCAM format, which is the worldwide standard SD format for professional handheld camcorders.
If you require a longer recording time, the DSR-PD177 is also capable of recording and playing back DV format signals (SP mode only).
If you require a longer recording time, the DSR-PD177 is also capable of recording and playing back DV format signals (SP mode only).
Assignable Features
The DSR-PD177 provides up to seven ASSIGN buttons for quick access to frequently used functions suitable for variable shooting conditions. Some default functions are pre-assigned by name.
The assignable functions are AE Shift, Back Light, Colour Bars, Digital Extender, End Search, Expanded Focus, Fader, Focus Macro, Hyper Gain, Index Mark, Marker, Peaking, Photo, Picture Profile, Push Auto Iris, REC Review, Ring Rotate Direction, Shot Transition, Smooth Slow REC, Spot Light, Steady Shot, TC Reset and Zebra.
The assignable functions are AE Shift, Back Light, Colour Bars, Digital Extender, End Search, Expanded Focus, Fader, Focus Macro, Hyper Gain, Index Mark, Marker, Peaking, Photo, Picture Profile, Push Auto Iris, REC Review, Ring Rotate Direction, Shot Transition, Smooth Slow REC, Spot Light, Steady Shot, TC Reset and Zebra.
XtraFine LCD Panel
The DSR-PD177 is equipped with a 3.2-inch-type widescreen XtraFine™ LCD panel on the front of its handle. This has a high resolution of approximately 921,000 pixels, which allows for easier focus adjustments. It can also display virtually 100% of the recorded picture area at a colour temperature of approximately 6500K.
XtraFine EVF
The 0.45-inch-type XtraFine EVF (Electronic View Finder) has approximately 1,227,000 pixels and three independent LEDs for red, green and blue colours. This technology allows users to monitor objects with remarkable colour reproduction accuracy and high resolution*.
The EVF has a choice of colour or black-and-white display modes. It also displays virtually 100% of the picture area at a colour temperature of approximately 6500K.
* When the camcorder is panned quickly, or when an object on the screen moves quickly, the R/G/B primary colours may be seen on the object in the EVF momentarily.
The EVF has a choice of colour or black-and-white display modes. It also displays virtually 100% of the picture area at a colour temperature of approximately 6500K.
* When the camcorder is panned quickly, or when an object on the screen moves quickly, the R/G/B primary colours may be seen on the object in the EVF momentarily.
InfoLITHIUM L Series Battery Compatibility
The DSR-PD177 uses the same L series batteries as the DSR-PD170P, so you can use your existing chargers and batteries.
Versatile Audio Input Selection
The DSR-PD177 offers a versatile choice of audio inputs. It features a newly designed high-quality built-in stereo microphone, as well as two XLR audio input channels for connecting to either professional microphones or an external-line audio source. A 48V microphone power source can also be supplied.
By adjusting the INPUT ASSIGN switch located on the side panel of the DSR-PD177, you can easily assign the two audio input channels to either the built-in stereo microphone or an external-line audio source, or dedicate one channel to each and record them separately or mixed.
When assigned to one channel, the built-in stereo microphone acts as a wide-directional monaural microphone.
By adjusting the INPUT ASSIGN switch located on the side panel of the DSR-PD177, you can easily assign the two audio input channels to either the built-in stereo microphone or an external-line audio source, or dedicate one channel to each and record them separately or mixed.
When assigned to one channel, the built-in stereo microphone acts as a wide-directional monaural microphone.
On-handle Zoom Lever and Rec. Start/Stop Button
In order to facilitate zoom control and recording operation during low-angle shooting, an additional zoom lever and a rec. start/stop button have been added to the carrying handle. The rec. start/stop button has a hold function to prevent accidental operation.
The three-position slide switch located on the side of the handle lets users select the zoom control type from FIX, VAR and OFF. In FIX mode, zoom speed is determined by the speed setting selected in the menu, where eight speeds are available. In VAR mode, zoom speed can be adjusted manually using the zoom lever.
The three-position slide switch located on the side of the handle lets users select the zoom control type from FIX, VAR and OFF. In FIX mode, zoom speed is determined by the speed setting selected in the menu, where eight speeds are available. In VAR mode, zoom speed can be adjusted manually using the zoom lever.
HYBRID Solution With HVR-MRC1K
The DSR-PD177 is ready for HYBRID DVCAM/DV operation, when connected to the optional HVR-MRC1K Memory Recording Unit via an i.LINK connector. In HYBRID operation, you can simultaneously record video footage to both a tape and a standard CompactFlash (CF) card.
One-touch Clip-type Microphone Holder
A one-touch clip-type microphone holder makes it easy to attach and remove the microphone for quick storage.
Specifications
General
Mass
2.2 kg (4 lb 14 oz) (with Lens hood, Lens cover,large eyecup)
2.7 kg (5 lb 15 oz) (with Lens hood, Lens cover,large eyecup, NP-F970 battery)
2.7 kg (5 lb 15 oz) (with Lens hood, Lens cover,large eyecup, NP-F970 battery)
Dimension (W x H x D)
169 x 188 x 401 mm (6 3/4 x 7 1/2 x 15 3/4 inch)
(including protrusions w/o gripbelt, w/ hood, w/ large eye-cup)
(including protrusions w/o gripbelt, w/ hood, w/ large eye-cup)
Power requirements
DC 8.4 V (Battery) / DC 7.2 V (AC adapter)
Power consumption
Approx. 6.0 W (LCD OFF and LCD viewfinder ON)
Operating temperature
0 to +40 °C (+32 to +104 °F)
Storage temperature
-20 to +60 °C (-4 to +140 °F)
Battery operating time
Approx. 475 min. (LCD OFF and LCD viewfinder ON) with NP-F970 battery
Recording format
Video: DVCAM/DV (SP) PAL
Audio: Linear PCM (2ch, 16-bit, 48-kHz / 2ch, 12-bit, 32-kHz)
Audio: Linear PCM (2ch, 16-bit, 48-kHz / 2ch, 12-bit, 32-kHz)
Recording frame rate
DVCAM/DV: 576/50i
Recording/Playback time
DV (SP): Approx. 63 min. with PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster tape
DVCAM: Approx. 41min. with PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster tape
DVCAM: Approx. 41min. with PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster tape
Lens
Zoom ratio
Sony G Lens, 20x (optical), 1.5x Digital Extender
Focal length
f = 4.1 to 82.0 mm (equivalent to f = 29.5 to 590 mm at 16:9 mode
f = 36.1 to 722 mm at 4:3 mode on 35 mm lens)
f = 36.1 to 722 mm at 4:3 mode on 35 mm lens)
Iris
F1.6 to F3.4
Focus
AF/MF selectable, 800 mm to infinity (MACRO OFF), 10 mm to infinity (MACRO ON, Wide), 800 mm to infinity (MACRO ON, Tele)
Image stabilizer
ON/OFF selectable, shift lens
Filter diameter
72 mm
Camera Section
Imaging device
3-chip 1/3-inch type Exmor CMOS with ClearVid pixel array
Effective picture elements Approx.
1,037,000 pixels with ClearVid array
Built-in optical filters
Clear, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64
Minimum illumination
1.5 lx (auto gain, auto iris, 1/25 shutter)
Shutter speed
Auto, Manual 50i/25p: 1/3 - 1/10000 sec.
Slow Shutter (SLS)
1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/25 sec.
Slow & Quick Motion function
200 fields/s (fixed) as improved Smooth Slow Rec
White balance
Auto, one-push auto (A/B positions), indoor (3200 K), outdoor (5800K)
Gain
AGC, -6, -3, 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21 dB
Inputs/Outputs
DC input
Power code (DK-215)
Remote
LANC (Stereo mini-mini jack (ø2.5 mm) (x 1))
Audio input
XLR 3-pin (female) (x 2), line/mic/mic +48 V selectable
Composite output
RCA Type (x 1) via A/V multi connector
S-Video output
Mini-Din 4-pin (x 1) via A/V multi connector (optional VMC-15FS is required.)
Audio output
RCA type (CH-1,CH-2) via A/V multi connector
i.LINK
IEEE1394, 4-pin (x 1), DV stream input/output, S400
Headphone output
Stereo mini jack (ø3.5 mm) (x 1)
Monitoring
Viewfinder
0.45 inch-type approx. 1,226,880 dots (852 x 3[RGB] x 480), 16:9 aspect ratio
Built-in LCD monitor
3.2 inch-type, XtraFine LCD, approx. 921,600 dots, hybrid type, 16:9 aspect ratio
Other
Built-in Microphone
Stereo microphone
Media Type
miniDV tape (x 1)
Supplied Accessories
Supplied Accessories AC-L100 AC adaptor (x 1)
A/V Composite Connecting Cable (x 1)
Lens hood with Lens cover (x 1)
Large size eye-cup (x 1)
RMT-831 wireless remote commander (x 1)
Lithium battery (CR2025) (x 1)
Operating instructions (CD-ROM) (x 1)
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