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  • Performance

  • Format

  • Tour

  • Auto/Manual Controls

  • Still Features

  • Handling and Use

  • Audio/Playback/Connectivity

  • Other Features

  • Comparisons/Conclusion

  • Specs/Ratings

  • Performance
  • Format
  • Tour
  • Auto/Manual Controls
  • Still Features
  • Handling and Use
  • Audio/Playback/Connectivity
  • Other Features
  • Comparisons/Conclusion
  • Specs/Ratings

Performance

The Sony DCR-HC36 is fitted with the standard 1/6" CCD, the type you could expect to find on almost any entry-level or near entry-level camcorder. This chip, like most 1/6" chips, has 680K gross pixels and 340K effective pixels.

At 3000 lux, the HC36 produced a rather poor image. Color balance was decent, and did not show over- or under-saturation, but the picture had an undeniably grainy look . Most 1/6" chip camcorders suffer from a little noise, but better performance exists in the same price class.

The Canon Elura 100, which has a slightly larger 1/5" CCD, shot an image with much more apparent sharpness and significantly lower noise levels. Color balance and saturation levels were about the same, with the Canon showing slightly better dynamic range in the greens and yellows.

Sony’s entry-level camcorder, the DCR DCR-HC26, is $50 less and has the same imaging system. The image, unsurprisingly, is essentially the same – same noise problems, color balance, etc.

The Panasonic PV-GS39 had less apparent sharpness and decreased color differentiation . It also produced Moiré patterns in the resolution trumpets when the information got too dense for the imager to handle. This did not happen in either Sony.

Finally, the JVC GR-D350 ($300) had a much less noisy image, despite the same 1/6" CCD. Saturation levels were higher, however, and some might say a little too high. The JVC’s problem was high levels of in-camera sharpening, which tended to create halos along high contrast areas, as well as stair-stepping along curved and diagonal lines. This did not happen to the same degree in the Sonys, the Panasonic, or the Canons.

In general, the HC36 is what you should expect for the price, but the Canons have a lot to offer in video performance, so be smart and compare before you buy.

Video Resolution*(8.9)*

We tested the DCR_HC36’s video for its resolution, both 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios, by shooting a standard ISO 12233 resolution chart and running stills from that footage through Imatest imaging software. In 4:3, the HC36 produced 315.4 lines of horizontal resolution and 281.8 lines of vertical resolution, yielding an approximate resolution of 88879.72. In 16:9, the HC36 produced 336.9 lines of horizontal resolution and 208.8 lines of vertical resolution (with an average 1.05% clipping), yielding an approximate resolution of 70142.8.

Clipping occurs when a portion of the information in the still cannot be read by Imatest, in this case because the information bottomed out (red, green, and blue levels all read as "0").

The chart below shows how the HC36’s resolution stacked up against the competition. There was little difference between the 1/6" chip camcorders. The larger chip in the Elura 100 made a difference in resolution.

Low Light Performance*(3.0)*

As with all the camcorders that pass through our doors, the DCR-HC36 was tested for its performance in low light at two different light levels, 60 lux and 15 lux – in layman’s terms, "fairly dark" and "pretty near dark."

At 60 lux, the HC36 lost a significant amount of luminance and color information. It also showed a significant increase in fine grain noise. This is not surprising, considering the small size of the chip. The larger the chip, the more light can be collected and used towards low light performance. An upper-end camcorder like Sony’s DCR-HC96 has a 1/3" CCD, twice the size of the HC36’s, with excellent low light results.

The next-step-down model, the HC26, has the same imaging system, and produced more or less the same results. The Canon Elura 100, despite having a slightly large imager, produced an image that was slightly darker, and with less color differentiation. Noise levels were roughly the same.

The Panasonic PV-GS39, which has the same size imager as the HC36, produced an image with a higher brightness level overall. The colors come through stronger, but the color differentiation is not as good as the HC36. This may point to a better automatic gain function in the Sony, which creates a wider dynamic range. A final note: while the Sony and Panasonic have commensurate levels of noise, the noise is of a finer grain and less noticeable in the Panasonic.

The JVC GR-DF350 uses a potent automatic gain control (AGC) common to all JVCs, which can be turned on and off. With the AGC on, the JVC produced and image wrought with noise at 60 lux. This was not the fine grain variety, either. This noise was larger and chunky, with patches of blue appearing across the color spectrum. The colors appear slightly blown out. Unfortunately, this image is preferable to the D350’s performance with the AGC off, which is very dark.

At 15 lux, the Sony HC36 lost even more information. Colors are still discernable, but this is not what we would call a "usable image." Areas of white, however, still come through clearly, and dark lettering on white should show up just fine.

The Sony DC26 is, again, the same. The Canon Elura 100 has an equally noisy image, but unlike the 60 lux comparisons, the Canon had a better image at 15 lux. The colors were brighter.

The Panasonic GS39 compared the same as 60 lux. Brightness was about the same, but the color differentiation was not what the Sony could offer. Also, the Panasonic had some trouble focusing at 15 lux. Finally, the JVC GR-D350 (with AGC on) had a slightly darker image than the HC36, with even less color information. With the AGC off, the image was nearly black.

On the whole, the HC36 was good for its class.

Wide Angle* (9.2)*

The Sony DCR-HC36 was tested for wide-angle field of view in both 16:9 and 4:3 formats. When recording in 4:3 the degree of view was 46 degrees, a result that was also recorded when switched into the "widescreen" 16:9 format. This camcorder produces a widescreen cinematic format by cropping the top and bottom of the image in a cropping method that will result in the user actually losing information, the antithesis of what occurs with a true 16:9 format. While a slight improvement of 2 degrees between this model and the HC26 this is hardly something to write home about.

Format

Compression* (8.0)*

The Sony DCR-HC36 uses 6.35 mm MiniDV tape, and will thus employ the industry standard 25 Mbps during recording. This low level of compression is what still sets the MiniDV format apart from DVD camcorders and other media options, which employ a much higher compression level and thus produce a lower video quality.

Media* (8.0)*

A proprietary Memory Stick Duo Pro card stores still images for the Sony DCR-HC36. Its slot is located on the left side of the camcorder, in the cavity formed by the LCD screen. . The maximum still image resolution for the Sony DCR-HC36 is 2016 x 1512. Duo Pro cards currently have a maximum recording capacity of 2 GB, and consumers can expect to pay anywhere from $39.99 to $199.99 on Sony’s website, depending on card size. The Sony DCR-HC36 does not come with any included memory card or internal memory option.

When shooting video footage, the Sony DCR-HC36 will record to 6.35mm MiniDV tape. Although not included with the camcorder, this medium is easily available for under $5 per sixty minute tape. It is also possible to record video clips to memory card, although the reduced image qualities of either 320 x 240 or 160 x 112 will be disappointing when compared to standard MiniDV video.

Editing* (8.0)*

The HC36 ships with Picture Package 1.5.1, a basic editing suite that allows you to capture video, back-up video to CDs and DVDs, and produce rudimentary DVDs.

In a world of ever-expanding video formats, MiniDV is still the easiest to import and edit in any video editing software. While DVD and HDD formats can go much faster than MiniDV’s realtime capture, MiniDV has been around longer, so even older software can usually handle it.

Tour

**The Front ***(7.5)*

A Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar 20x optical zoom lens is set in the upper right corner of the HC36’s front face. While the lens cover is not automatic, an accessory lens cover is included with this camcorder. The NightShot plus sensor for low light shooting is to the left of the lens, along with an IR sensor for the included remote control. These features must remain uncovered to work properly. The in-camcorder microphones are positioned directly beneath these two sensors and provide the only audio recording option available on this stripped down camcorder.

**The Right Side ***(8.75)*

The right side of the Sony DCR-HC36 has a hand strap that spans the camcorder body horizontally from front to back and features an adjustable Velcro component to adjust for varying hand sizes. Along the edge composed by the right and front sides of the camcorder is a port cover which hides the USB port, FireWire port, and AV out. The right side of the DCR-HC36 conceals the MiniDV compartment, a top-loading mechanism that opens via a switch on top of the camcorder body. Its placement allows users to switch tapes even when the camcorder is connected to a tripod. The right side is matte gray plastic, with a slightly textured surface that will perhaps provide a nominally improved gripping surface for the palm of the right hand.

**The Back ***(7.0)*

In the upper left corner on the back of the DCR-HC36 is an extendable electronic color viewfinder. Its eyepiece is made of hard plastic and, while not comfortable, is tolerable for short periods of time. A dioptric adjustment dial on the viewfinder’s right side adjusts sharpness. The battery pack is located beneath the viewfinder, and is released by pressing a small tab above the battery and to the right of the EV. Engaging and disengaging it was a compromised endeavor that would be easier with slightly more room between the viewfinder, battery pack, and other features on the back of the camcorder. To the right of the battery’s top edge is the rec. start/stop button, which can be engaged with the right hand thumb. Also to the right of the battery, but along the bottom edge, is a DC IN port masked by a stiff rubber cover that flips down from the top. Above the rec. start/stop and the battery is the polished silver power switch . By pressing the green tab located on the top of this switch inwards and pushing the switch to the right, the user can rotate between video, still image, and playback modes. Moving the switch to the left will move the camcorder back into the power off/charge position. Three small LEDs are located beneath the power switch. They inform the user of camera state and whether the camcorder is in tape, memory, or play/edit modes. The labels for these three LEDs are on the right side of the camcorder body.

**The Left Side ***(6.0)*

The left side of the Sony DCR-HC36 features a 2.5 inch LCD screen with 123,200 pixel resolution, which can rotate 270 degrees and can be returned to the camcorder body facing either out or inwards. Users can open the LCD by pulling out on either the back or bottom edge of its frame or by a casual flick of the wrist. It doesn’t lock into the camcorder body, and will open if caught on any edge. In addition, the hinge which connects the LCD to the camcorder is under-constructed; slight pressure caused the screen to move in a detrimental direction. Secondary controls for both zoom and rec. start/stop are on the outer edge of the LCD frame. The playback speaker is located next to the hinge of the LCD frame, in the cavity formed by LCD screen, and a small inset button above it resets the camcorder At the back of this cavity is a proprietary Sony Memory Stick Duo Pro card slot. Above the LCD screen, on the side of the lens barrel, are three buttons. The front most button is the back light on/off control for shooting strongly backlit subjects.; the display/battery information button is behind it; and the button for easy mode brings up the rear. All three buttons are well labeled and spaced, and users should have no confusion about their individual purposes. An incredibly small LED is near the back of the camcorder, where the electronic color viewfinder eyepiece meets the body. This LED indicates when the camcorder is charging.

The Top* (6.0)*

A handful of control options are located on top of the HC36. The Open/Eject slider for the tape compartment is near the front, while the NightShot Plus on/off switch is behind it, along the edge between the lens barrel and the right half of the camcorder. At the back of the camcorder, convenient to the index finger of the right hand, are the zoom toggle and the photo button for the Sony DCR-HC36. The zoom toggle is well designed, extremely sensitive, and capable of producing a number of zoom speeds with only subtle adjustment. Users should find it comfortable to engage when shooting . A raised ridge along the edge between the top and right side provides the fingers of the right hand with a gripping point for steadier shooting and better handling.

Auto/Manual Controls

Picture & Manual Control
Automatic Control (9.5)

Like most Sonys, the DCR-HC36 is an exceptionally simple device to operate with great automatic controls. These include exposure, shutter speed, white balance, gain, and all the other controls that factor into image quality. The auto focus is excellent from objects at quite a distance to almost touching the lens, as long as the zoom is between 0 and 1x. In extended zooms, the auto focus will falter. Exposure controls work well, and the white balance is satisfactory. Still, we gave the white balance a run for its money in rooms where ambient sunlight and indoor light mixed.

The camcorder also has a number of controls that are halfway between automatic and manual controls, providing help while giving the user the feeling of control. In particular, several Program AE modes are meant to aid in certain tricky lighting situations. They include Spotlight, Portrait, Sports, Beach & Ski, Sunset & Moon, and Landscape.

*The Easy button on the left side of the HC36. *

An auto shutter function, which can be turned on and off, is designed to help shooting in bright light situations. Color Slow Shutter is another function that aids in low light. It has the unfortunate side effect of blurring moving objects.

The Spot Focus feature creates a frame around the touch screen LCD. You can then touch portions of the screen and have the camcorder adjust its focus to that subject. This is not a fine control, and will not work if the subject is too small. The Spot Meter function works the same way, but is for exposure control. There are two white balance presets, Indoor and Outdoor, in addition to auto and manual settings.

While the HC36 has better automatic controls than the competition from Panasonic, JVC, and Canon, it does not stand out from similarly priced Sonys. If you really need a simple to use camcorder, the HC36 and HC26 are a great choice but you will sacrifice a lot in making the purchase.

Overall Manual Control (3.0)

The HC36 offers few manual controls – the downside of all Sony camcorders. This is a manufacturer that focuses on ease of use. If

you are looking for more manual control, check out Panasonic and JVC and to a lesser extent Canon, both of which offer a wider array than Sony. Of course, a lot more goes into camcorders than the manual control set, so be sure to factor in performance, handling, and the rest.

On the HC36, you’ll find controls for focus, exposure (in EV steps), and white balance. Making any changes requires the touch screen control, which inherently limits them. Touch screens, we believe, are not a great control. Primarily, they collect fingerprints and grease. If you are trying to adjust focus by tapping the + and – buttons on the screen, you’re actually getting the screen dirtier with each touch. How, then, can you tell whether you actually need focus or just a cleaner screen?

The actual menu is fairly simple to navigate. Pushing the P-Menu button in the lower right corner brings it up. The menu has a front page (or pages, actually) with large buttons for the most common tasks. This front page is programmable, so if you frequently use a function which is buried deeper in the menu, you can move it up. You can also re-sort and delete front page buttons. The back menu, which has smaller buttons, can be a little harder to navigate.

Zoom (8.0)

Users can control zoom levels via a toggle on top of the camcorder body, near the back of the frame. The Sony DCR-HC36’s zoom toggle is raised from the body of the camcorder slightly; users, regardless of hand size, should be able to access it comfortably. Helping aid in steadier zoom transitions is a slight ridge that runs along the edge between the top and right side of the camcorder body. The 20x optical zoom level on the Sony DCR-HC36 is about standard for a one-chip point and shoot camcorder, although it certainly isn’t the preposterously large 32x optical zoom currently found on the JVC GR-D350. To compensate for camera hand shake, which becomes more apparent with higher zoom levels, the Sony DCR-HC36 uses an electronic image stabilization system.

*The two zoom controls of the HC36, the primary lens on top, and the zoom control on the edge of the LCD panel. *

A secondary zoom control, on the LCD frame, provides users with a slow and paced zoom transition that eliminates awkward shifts in speed, which often occur with the primary zoom toggle. This secondary zoom control is comprised of two slightly raised touch-pads labeled "W" and "T". The only problem with engaging controls on the frame of the LCD is the tendency to shift and move the camcorder when making adjustments. Using a tripod or applying steady pressure should nearly overcome this problem.

Zoom Power/Ratio (20.0)

In the world of small point-and-shoot 1/6th inch CCD camcorders a 20x optical zoom range is about average with models like the JVC GR-D350 providing 32x optical zoom which is bound to pick up in the slightest hand shake. Even with a 20x optical zoom the user is bound to notice shake from hands during shooting with higher zoom levels and while the SteadyShot image stabilization setting is helpful in overcoming this problem it won’t perform with the same success or quality as an optical image stabilization feature. If camera shake is a problem and the electronic image stabilization isn’t compensating successfully the use of a tripod is recommended.

In addition to the 20x optical zoom the Sony DCR-HC36 also comes with a digital zoom range with a maximum of 800x. With digital zoom the quality of video decreases as higher digital zoom levels are engaged. Image degradation occurs quite quickly and users with discerning taste will dismiss digital zoom entirely while those with questionable aesthetics may be able to tolerate the miserable results of 10 or 20x. The DCR-HC36’s digital zoom can be turned on and off by entering the appropriate sub-menu within the administrative menu system. The digital zoom menu allows users to select between off, 40x and 800x. With a setting of 40x the user will have a 20x digital zoom range which while plagued by poor video quality is at least still somewhat legible whereas a setting 800x will result in mush.

Focus (4.0)

There are actually two methods for controlling focus somewhat manually when shooting with the DCR-HC36: a digital manual focus control and a touch screen spot focus system.

The manual focus option is listed on the second page of the P-menu. Its screen is as cluttered as the exposure manual control interface: it has a frame, two icons for making adjustments to manual focus levels, an indicator for focal depth, auto and manual buttons, and a return button. With this many controls, it will be difficult to clearly view focal transitions when selecting an appropriate focal depth. The right hand will block most of the user’s view and the litter of controls and information on the screen make any information even rarer. Simply placing the mountain and bust icons along the bottom of the LCD screen would have alleviated much of the problem; as it currently exists, this setup is an unnecessary hassle for a control that is simple in theory.

Using the spot focus system is no less difficult. The spot focus option, on the first page of the P-menu, opens to display a touch-screen frame measuring 2.0 inches diagonal. This control is meant for simple shifts with basic scenes, and will not perform with nuance or with success in complicated scenes with multiple or small subjects. It also isn’t meant for situations with three depths of field, where each of the subjects fills one-third of the screen, and things honestly don’t get much simpler than that when shooting.

Exposure (Aperture) (4.0)

The manual control for exposure is located on the first page of the P-menu structure. Opening the exposure sub-menu produces a horizontal sliding scale with +/- icons on either end for making adjustments via the manual button directly beneath it. With the scale, the adjustment icons, the auto and manual buttons, a frame with control type listed, and an OK button, this live view screen is far too cluttered. Add in your left hand obscuring sections of the screen when making adjustments, and this control takes a bit of patience and review.

*Shutter Speed (0.0) *

There is no manual shutter speed control on this low-priced auto-centric Sony camcorder. Then again, there isn’t manual shutter speed on their top-of-the line DC96: those who value manual controls should consider an alternate manufacturer. The Canon ZR500 provides manual shutter speed control for a hundred dollars less than the DCR-HC36 and, while the design of this camcorder suffers in terms of aesthetics, it should be an alluring alternative in terms of both manual control and price.

White Balance (7.5)

While the DCR-HC36 offers manual white balance control, locating this feature requires navigating an absurd series of menus that will scare beginning or casual users away. The three page P-menu which houses all other manual controls doesn’t, contrary to logical expectations, list the white balance settings. Instead, users who want to access these options must open the P-menu, select the administrative menu option, and scan the menu structure for the Camera Set category. Scanning the list of category options in this menu reveals a white balance sub-menu option. While it’s possible to restructure the P-menu to include white balance, it’s absurd that Sony didn’t do this in the first place, especially as it’s an essential control designed for beginning users. Once in the white balance sub-menu, the user can select between auto, outdoor, indoor and one push (manual). These five buttons overlay most of the 2.5 inch LCD; with a return arrow and a frame surrounding these controls there is little of the screen left for actual accurate monitoring.

Gain (0.0)

The Sony DCR-HC36 does not come with a manual control option for gain levels. The lack of gain on a Sony camcorder is expected, due to their heavy auto-control emphasis and additional lack of manual control over shutter speed or aperture. If manual gain control is important, models by Panasonic will be able to provide this option at a relatively low price.

Other Manual Control (0.0)

There are no other manual control options provided with the $400 point-and-shoot Sony DCR-HC36 camcorder.

Still Features

Still Features* (6.25)*

Although it’s the major step up from the HC26, the HC36 has rather limited features. The HC36 does include a MemoryStick Duo port dedicated to still JPEG capture, unlike the HC26’s exclusively MiniDV recording capability, but the largest still size is 640 x 480, which is only 0.3MP. Besides having two quality settings – Standard and Fine – the camcorder has two modes of capture, Field and Frame.

The HC36's MemoryStick Duo slot, located in the LCD cavity.

The Frame mode captures stills in the way that most cameras and camcorders do; all the pixels in the chip grab the information at once. This method produces the highest possible quality. Sony recommends the other method, field mode, for subjects in fast motion. It captures stills the same way it captures video. Video is typically composed of two interlaced fields, wherein the alternating rows of pixels are refreshed one after the other (even rows are refreshed, then odd rows, then even, then odd, etc.) Using the Field method results in a lower quality still, but because it updates the information (or half the information) twice as fast, it is more likely to capture a fast moving object in detail.

Burst and bracketing modes are available on the next Sony models up, the HC46 and the HC96. The HC46 can capture stills up to 1152 x 864 (1.0MP). The HC96 goes up to 2016 x 1512 (3.0 MP). The entry-level JVCs, Panasonics, and Canons also shoot 640 x 480. The Canon Elura 100 shoots stills up to 1152 x 864.

Still Resolution* (1.5)*

We tested the DCR-HC36’s stills for their resolution, both the Field and Frame modes (see the Still Features section for a full explanation of these modes), by shooting a standard ISO 12233 resolution chart and running those stills through Imatest imaging software. Both modes shoot at a maximum size of 640 x 480.

In Frame mode, the HC36 yielded an approximate resolution of 153702.97 (with an average 0.85% clipping). In Field mode, the HC36 yielded an approximate resolution of 154178.67 (with an average 1.3% clipping), a statistically identical result to the Frame mode. While our still performance tests showed that the Frame mode produced better looking results overall, but the resolution appears to be the same. We based the score for this section on the Frame mode results, as Field mode is additional feature that captures stills in a non-traditional way.

Clipping occurs when a portion of the information in the still cannot be read by Imatest, in this case because the information bottomed out (red, green, and blue levels all read as "0").

You can see in the chart below how the HC36 compared to the competition. The camcorders that use a dedicated card media and shoot 640 x 480 have approximately the same resolution. The Elura 100, with a larger maximum still size, had a much higher resolution.

Still Performance* (3.5)*

Although the DCR-HC36 produces stills in only one size, 640 x 480, it takes pictures in both Frame and Field capture modes. We looked at both modes at 3000 lux, then compared the results to those from similar camcorders.

The HC36’s Frame capture had a decent color balance, though a little flat compared to video at the same light levels. Noise levels were higher than we’ve seen in comparative camcorders, and apparent sharpness was lacking. It’s important to remember, though, that 640 x 480 is only 0.3 MP, and not an overwhelming amount of information compared to dedicated still cameras.

Field capture, composed of two fields put back together in-camera, is meant to photograph faster moving subjects. Because it does not capture the image at once, as it does in Frame mode, image quality is somewhat lower. Noise levels increase and apparent sharpness decreases even more.

By comparison, the Canon Elura 100’s 640 x 480 still was much, much sharper, with virtually no noise. The colors did appear slightly washed out, however, and looked better in the Sony. Overall, the Canon comes out ahead. You can always play with color levels in Photoshop, but noise will remain.

The entry-level Sony HC26 can only capture stills to a MiniDV tape at 640 x 480. While it’s far easier to get stills off the HC36’s MemoryStick, the HC26 had more vivid colors, with a tendency towards more reds than the blues of the HC36’s stills.

Panasonic’s PV-GS39 also shoots 640 x 480 stills and produced an image with higher amounts of noise and less apparent sharpness. The Panasonic also produced colorful Moiré patterns in the resolution trumpets on the chart.

The JVC GR-D350 produced stills of exceptionally strong saturation. Every color was fit to burst right off the chart. This may be considered a strength , and it’s hard to deny that strong, bright images are a draw for some consumers. But these colors are not as accurate as the Sony’s, and accuracy counts.

In conclusion, do not buy this camcorder for its still capabilities. Still capture to MemoryStick is the only significant upgrade from the HC26 (in addition to a remote control), but 640 x 480 stills are not even close to the cheapest point and shoot cameras, which capture at 5 - 6MP.

Handling and Use

Ease of Use* (8.0)*

Most Sonys are very easy to use, and the HC36 is no exception. In fact, just to make things inviting for the first time user, Sony even slapped a big old Easy button on the side. Pushing this button puts the camcorder in full automatic mode and even simplifies the menu – leaving only beep on/off, clock set, and display guide, which allows you to touch any icon on the screen and get an explanation as to what it means.

For those looking to take their first tentative steps into image control, the HC36 offers controls like Spot Meter and Spot Focus, which allow you to simply point at objects on the LCD screen and have the camcorder adjust exposure and focus accordingly. It’s not a great control, but it can suffice in certain situations. When you add these into the auto functions it does make the HC36 a slightly more appealing choice.

Handling* (7.0)*

The DCR-HC36 handles like most camcorders in its price range. Its body is light and small enough to easily fit in the hand and most of the buttons are well-placed. However, it also feels cheap, an almost unavoidable problem with lower-end camcorders. I wouldn’t trust this plastic to give much protection during a drop. The LCD panel also flops open and closed with a good tug, and there is no locking mechanism to keep it in place. As this is probably the part most likely to break first, be careful.

Sony does a good job with intuitive design. Most people picking this up with their hand in the strap would have an immediate sense of operation. The downside to the small body is that a pinky finger could easily stray into the lens and smudge it up.

Our biggest grievance with handling is the touch screen controls. I know: if you read the site enough, you’re probably tired of hearing us complain about Sony’s touch screens. But, for those newbies, here’s a quick defense of our position. Touch screens require that you have the LCD open to make adjustments, which is a big drain on the battery. LCDs are also prone to picking up fingerprints and the natural oils that our skin releases. This not only produces an ugly-looking screen but damages your primary method of determining image quality. We prefer joystick navigation controls, which are gaining popularity. Canon adopted them this year for many of their models, and Panasonic extended them from their MiniDV camcorders to the DVD camcorders, as well. These guys know sensible design when they see it, but Sony has always been one to stick to their guns.

Portability* (8.25)*

At 370g (13 oz.), with measurements of 65 x 79 x 113mm (2 5/8" x 3 1/8" x 4 1/2"), the HC36 is an extremely portable camcorder. Although it won’t fit in your pocket like small flash media camcorder, such as the Panasonic SDR-S100, this is about as small as MiniDV camcorders come.

LCD/Viewfinder* (9.3)*

The LCD screen on the left side of the camcorder body opens from the back or bottom edge of the frame. No locking device secures the screen to the camcorder body; rough handling or packaging can result in a broken or cracked LCD. The LCD screen measures 2.5 inches, has a resolution of 123, 200 pixels, and can rotate 270 degrees and be returned to the body of the camcorder facing either in or out. Its hinging mechanism is compromised and overextends slightly when at rest, so that the LCD is at a slight angle. This screen uses the Sony touch-screen interface found throughout their camcorder line. The LCD is undersized for competent usage, however, and features like Spot Focus and Meter are nearly impossible to use due to the size limitations of a petite interface. Additionally, the same touch-screen problems that plague any system apply here, with finger-prints smudging the surface of the screen. This will compromise monitoring images on-screen and will hamper manual controls, like focus, which rely on a crisp, clean image.

An electronic color viewfinder can function as a secondary monitoring viewing device. This viewfinder has an extending eyepiece that will aid in functionality and a dioptric adjustment device on the right side of the eyepiece. Users won’t find the hard plastic frame as comfortable as rubber versions, though, and will be unable to use manual controls without the LCD screen. This won’t be a huge setback for those shooting in Easy Mode, since access to record controls and zoom is still possible.

Battery Life* (10.9)*

The HC36 ships with a NP-FP30 battery pack, which requires about 115 minutes to fully charge. We tested the battery for continuous recording, leaving the LCD open, the backlight and image stabilization on, and no manual controls engaged. In total, the battery lasted 109 minutes and 58 seconds (1 hour, 49 minutes, and 58 seconds).

Audio/Playback/Connectivity

Audio* (2.5)*

Audio recording options are fairly limited with this simple MiniDV camcorder. There is no mic input and no accessory shoe. Users have to rely entirely upon the in-camcorder stereo microphones located on the front of the camcorder, directly beneath the lens. The placement of the built-in mic is standard for point and shoot camcorders, and users won’t need to worry about covering the microphone with wandering fingers. It would be nice to see Sony put a microphone jack on this camcorder, especially since the less expensive Canon ZR500 comes with more manual controls and a mic-in port. Users currently won’t be able to adjust microphone levels while recording, and will have to rely on a post-production software application to normalize or adjust the gain if the audio is of poor quality.

The audio mode settings are located in the Standard Set category within the overall administrative menu structure. Audio mode parameter allows the user to select between 12 bit and 16 bit audio recording options: the 12 bit audio option will record audio files as 2 stereo sounds, while the 16 bit mode will record one stereo sound at high quality. Twelve bit recording is intended for use during in-camcorder audio dubbing, although audio sampling rates are reduced and overall quality will be compromised. The 16 bit recording option will provide better audio quality: users with post-production editing suites which provide multi-track audio editing can use this option, then produce voice-overs and additional audio recording on a PC.

When in playback mode, the Sony DCR-HC36 can dub audio if the camcorder recorded the original audio track with a 12 bit sampling rate. Located within the overall administrative menu structure in the Edit/Play category, this simple control allows users to add an additional audio track to their video clips. This feature takes some time to get used to and can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to applying real-time audio overlays like voice-over.

Once the audio dubbing is complete, the user will be able to reenter the administrative menu system, select the audio mix feature, and adjust the two audio tracks in order to gain a more appropriate main to sub balance. The audio mix feature is a simple horizontal scale, in the center of the LCD, with arrows at either end to adjust tracks. . In addition to this mixing feature, an added playback volume controller is listed within the Standard Set category of the administrative menu. This feature has the same interface style as the audio mix controller and, while not the easiest to access if a beginning user, it is simple to use.

Audio playback patterns. This feature will appear within the Standard Set menu when the camcorder is in Play/edit video mode and the user enters the overly convoluted administrative menu structure. Three settings are available: stereo, which will play back audio with both main and sub sound; 1, which will play back the main sound or left channel; and 2, which plays back sub sound or the right channel. . Finally, the Sony DCR-HC36 includes no headphone jack.

VCR Mode* (6.0)*

Users can find the HC36’s playback mode by twisting the mode dial clockwise two times (and chanting the correct incantation). Playback controls – stop, rewind, play, and fast forward – appear as buttons along the bottom of the touch screen LCD. The zoom toggle can be used to zoom into the playback footage up to 5x. While zoomed in, you can tap the screen up, down, left, or right to pan and tilt in those directions. This is not a finely tuned control, and prone to error (I wanted to go up, it went right), but it’s fun to play with.

As long as you’re not in Easy mode, there is also a menu button along the bottom of the LCD. Menu functions here include End Search, which finds the next black space on the MiniDV tape; Volume, which should have an external control rather than being buried in the menu; and Variable Speed Playback, which gives you options for 2x speed, fast forward slow, rewind slow, and frame advance in forward and rewind.

Ports* (4.5)*

Ports are located on the right, back, and left sides of the Sony DCR-HC36. An AV out port, Firewire, and a USB port are located beneath a vertical port cover along the edge formed between the right side and the front of the camcorder. The cover will remain connected to the camcorder via four sturdy hinges along the front edge. The ports are too close to the top-loading MiniDV compartment, however, and their cables will become tangled, blocked, and possibly lead to accidental disconnection and other hassles. This is further exacerbated by the cover not swinging far enough away from the port area to allow easy access, especially with the aforementioned tape compartment open.

Most of the ports on the HC36 are located on the front right side; the DC port is located on the back.  

A second set of ports is located on the back of the DCR-HC36 and includes an extending battery that locks vertically into the lower half of the camcorder . To the right of the battery pack, on the bottom edge of the back face, is the DC IN port. Its placement outside the cavity of the battery pack lets users switch power sources mid-shot without pausing the tape. While alternate power is not always an option when out in the field, this design is helpful in interior situations. The DC IN port is covered by a sturdy rubber cover that hinges along the bottom edge.

The third and final port location is in the LCD cavity on the left side of the Sony DCR-HC36. A vertical Memory Stick Duo Pro card allows users to slide optional memory cards into the body of the camcorder. This memory card format is a proprietary Sony brand; alternate universal card types like SD or xD are incompatible with this camcorder.

Other Features

Widescreen/16:9 Mode* (5.0)*

To achieve the look of 16:9 formatting, Sony has applied a letterbox digital effect on the top and bottom of the LCD screen. This digital cropping actually reduces the amount of vertical information of the 4:3 format while keeping the same horizontal resolution. The LCD screen for the DCR-HC36 measures 2.5 inches diagonally and will also not be able to provide a widescreen viewing platform for users.

Scan Rates/24p* (0.0)*

The Sony DCR-HC36 shoots at the video industry standard frame rate of 30 frames per second. Variable frame rates are normally found on higher-end camcorders; consumers should not expect this option on point-and-shoot camcorders like the DCR-HC36.

Other Features* (4.0)*
Fader

Fade features for the Sony DCR-HC36, applied while recording, provide users with several minimal-effort options for giving video a more polished aesthetic. The fade options for the camcorder, located on the first page of the P-Menu, are fader, black fader, monotone, and mosaic fader for both fade-in and fade-out capabilities. In addition, three fade-in only options allow overlap, wipe, and dot fader. When shooting with a fade-in, a four or five second delay freezes the screen on full black, white, or mosaic without transitioning. Once the fade is complete, the fader option turns off: users will need to re-enter and set the fade-out, even if it is the same effect that used for the fade-in.

*Electronic Image Stabilization
*The Sony DCR-HC36 has a 20x optical zoom; while this isn’t the 32x optical zoom lens found with the JVC GR-D350, the DCR-HC36 is going to display camera shake when shooting at higher optical zoom levels. An optical stabilization system, which won’t compromise image quality, is the best option for correcting hand shake and camera movement. Unfortunately the Sony DCR-HC36 comes with the inferior electronic stabilization system, although it’s certainly better than nothing.

*Digital Effects/Picture Effects
*Located in two separate sub-menus of the P-menu structure, the digital and picture effects settings provide users with a handful of in-camcorder digital effects. The digital effects options for the Sony DCR-HC36 include Cinema effect, Delay motion, Still, Flash, Luminance Key, Trail, Slow Shutter, and Old Movie. All of the options, excluding cinema effect and old movie modes, provide users with an adjustable scale to tailor the effects parameters further before shooting.

In addition to the digital effects options listed above, there are six picture effects options that can be applied to still images in both record and playback modes. The effects options for still images provide users with negative art, sepia, black and white, solarize, pastel, and mosaic.

*Super NightShot Plus Infrared System
*While problematic due to poor image quality and an entire loss of accurate color reproduction, the Infrared system provides sixteen times the illumination of the HC26’s Sony NightShot Plus system, which is known for its green tint.. The Super NightShot Plus Infrared System option is listed in the overall menu structure; users can enter that structure by pressing the menu button on the first page of the P-menu system.

Comparisons/Conclusion

Comparison
Sony DCR-HC26
The Sony DCR-HC26 is the lowest priced MiniDV camcorder produced by Sony this year and, although it offers fewer features, it does provide a compelling argument for some budget users. Major features not present on this $299 camcorder include the Tele Macro function, the Super NightShot Plus Infrared System, and the still image capture. The DCR-HC26 has the same 1/6th inch, 680K CCD, a 20x optical zoom, 123,200 pixel 2.5 inch LCD screen, camcorder body and physical design, and video recording to 6.35 mm MiniDV as the DCR-HC36. While some users may find the hybrid abilities an incentive, the quality of 640 x 480 still image resolution is hardly stunning. If the marginal step-up features aren’t necessary, the DCR-HC26 can provide the Sony structure, layout and simplicity while saving the consumer a hundred dollars that can be applied towards a few years’ supply of MiniDV tape.

Sony DCR-HC46
With a slightly larger 1/5.5 inch CCD than the HC36, the HC46 has only 12x optical zoom. In addition to the enlarged imager, the HC46 provides16:9 formatting via the 2.7 inch LCD widescreen display. The camcorder body has a similar design, and users will find the same layout for microphone, zoom, tape compartment, and extendable electronic color viewfinder. This camcorder comes with the somewhat ironically named "Handycam" station that, while intended to expedite the camcorder connecting process, just tended to cause frustration and obscenities around the office. The HC36 also has still image capture abilities and improves upon the barebones resolution of the DCR-HC36 by providing a maximum resolution of 1152 x 864. Retailing for $500, this model T may be worth a second look for point-and-shoot users with a bit more of a budget. The improvement in image quality alone is worth the price.

*JVC GR-D396
*This model by JVC is has an MSRP of $380 but is currently being found online at a $499.95. It comes with a 1/6 inch, 680K CCD and an ultra-zoom level of 32x optical zoom which, while larger than the Sony DCR-HC36, will also inevitably show more camera shake. This camcorder has an electronic color viewfinder and a comparable 2.5 inch LCD screen to that of the Sony DCR-HC36. Manual focus settings include focus, exposure, iris, shutter, and white balance, thus making this camcorder a more tempting option for the budget manual control user. It doesn’t have a mic-in port or headphone jack, however, making its limited audio options similar to the paltry offerings of the DCR-HC36. The D396 positions manual controls within the LCD cavity, which can be just as aggravating as touch screen controls.. Look for a full review of this camcorder soon. In the meantime, our money is on the JVC. Their lower-end line should not be underestimated.

Canon Elura 100
Users will find that this Canon, with an initial $399 retail price identical to the HC36’s, provides a compelling argument as an alternate purchase. Similar to the DCR-HC36 in some ways, this Canon has 20x optical zoom and electronic image stabilization. Improvements include the Elura 100’s larger 1/5th inch CCD with 880K effective pixels and control over focus, exposure, shutter speed, and white balance and a 2.7 inch LCD with wide-screen display. This camcorder also uses the SD memory card format instead of the Sony proprietary media found with the DCR-HC36. Benefits continue into the audio area of the Elura 100, thanks to the inclusion of a mic in port and analog-to-digital pass-through capabilities. One major detraction is the terribly designed and nearly useless electronic color viewfinder. But with superior image quality and more input/output options, the Elura is clearly the winner in this competition.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters *(8.0)*

For the point-and-shoot user looking for a stripped down, auto-control friendly MiniDV camcorder, the DCR-HC36 is a reasonable choice. Its hybrid functionality is the primary component which will set this $400 model apart from the less expensive, video only, HC26.

Budget Consumers* (6.0)*

The DCR-HC36 retails for around $400 and is inexpensively priced. Its still image capture option sets it apart from lower priced models like the ZR500 by Canon.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid* (3.0)*

For the hybrid user, this camcorder is the barebones starter model that’s adequate for those less concerned with quality of still images. For greater flexibility and more options, be prepared to shell out more money.

Gadget Freaks* (1.0)*

This simple and basic MiniDV camcorder does not provide a compelling target for gadget freaks.

Manual Control Freaks* (3.0)*

With minimal manual controls that depend on the awkward and small LCD screen, the DCR-HC36 is not a recommended camcorder for manual control enthusiasts. Panasonic or Canon camcorders provide better manual control for nearly the same price.

Pros/ Serious Hobbyists* (2.0)*

This auto-friendly camcorder with minimal hybrid functionality is hardly a model for the pro or serious hobbyist, who will demand a logical interface, concise and complete manual control, and an imager that will provide crisp and accurate video quality.

Conclusion

In the end, the question of a camcorder’s merit often comes down to the wallet . At $400, what is the HC36 offering? Modest video performance, decent low light performance, great ease of use, terrible manual controls, and effective handling have all been nearly wrapped in a cheap body. If $400 is a major investment (and of course it is for a large segment of the population), the Canon Elura 100 has a lot more to offer at the same price. If Sony is your bag, the HC26 is $50 less, with the very minor loss of still captures to a MemoryStick. These stills are so small (640 x 480) that even the cheapest point and shoot digital camera captures at over 12x that resolution. You wouldn’t want to stick a 640 x 480 still in your scrapbook, believe us.

Sony has a good thing going for the non-techie portion of the population, but this particular camcorder is not the best deal. Shop around and compare. You’ll see that the under $500 has a lot of compelling choices--and you’ll likely want to steer clear of this one.

Specs/Ratings

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Meet the tester

David Kender

David Kender

Editor in Chief

@davekender

David Kender oversees content at Reviewed as the Editor in Chief. He served as managing editor and editor in chief of Reviewed's ancestor, CamcorderInfo.com, helping to grow the company from a tiny staff to one of the most influential online review resources. In his time at Reviewed, David has helped to launch over 100 product categories and written too many articles to count.

See all of David Kender's reviews

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