Sony Handycam HDR-XR500V

The Sony Handycam HDR-XR500V is a high definition camcorder from Sony's 2009 lineup.  The camcorder features full 1080p high definition video recording, 12.1-megapixel still image capture, and a built-in 120 GB hard drive to store up to 48 hours of high definition footage.  It is designed with a 3.2" Xtra Fine touch LCD screen and a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS image sensor for increased sensitivity in low light settings.  The HDR-XR500V includes a professional Sony G lens for 12x optical and 150x digital zoom.  It utilizes advanced recording technology including Sony's SteadyShot image stabilization, Smile Shutter, and face detection technology.  The HDR-XR500V also records audio in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and has a built-in zoom microphone for realistic sound.  The camcorder is a step up from Sony's HDR-XR200V since it has includes a Exmor R CMOS image sensor and takes 12.1-megapixel images compared to the 4-megapixel images of the HDR-XR200V.