CES 2009: Back-illuminated cell structure and low-dispersion G Lens in the Sony HDR XR520VE

TechRadar says:

The HDR XR520VE brings a super-sensitive Exmor R CMOS sensor, which apparently has been re-engineered so that 'photo-sensitive areas receive maximum illumination, unobscured by a grid of fine metal wires that partially blocks the pathway of incoming light in conventional designs.'

Sony adds impressive features to HD camcorder line

New Models Combine Exmor R CMOS sensor, Sony G Lens and BIONZ Processor For Unparalleled Imaging Quality.

The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 camcorder models preserve content in high resolution with 1920x1080 high-definition video recording and up to 12-megapixel still image capture.

The flagship model includes a 240GB hard drive that holds up to 101 hours of HD video (LP mode), embedded GPS, a back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS sensor, and improved optical image stabilization.

The HDR-XR520V and HDR-XR500V models are the first camcorders to use a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor. Because the wire circuitry is placed behind the sensor’s photo detectors, the camcorders provide stunning low light performance with approximately twice the sensitivity compared to Sony’s existing front-illuminated CMOS sensor at F2.0. This results in brilliant image clarity and reduced grain.

These two camcorders feature a Sony G lens that incorporates advanced optics and low-dispersion aspheric glass elements for accurate color production and sharp, detailed images. A six-blade iris produces circular “bokeh” defocus effects for creative shooting possibilities.

A high-speed BIONZ imaging processor handles massive amounts of high resolution data from the Exmor R CMOS sensor for quick response and extraordinary picture quality.

The models also have an improved Optical Steady Shot™ feature with Active Mode, which allows a moveable lens element to shift with a greater range of motion during camera shake. This results in dramatically smoother video footage and photos.

The HDR-XR520V, HDR-XR500V, HDR-XR200V and HDR-XR100 will begin shipping in March for about $1500, $1300, $1000 and $750, respectively. The DCR-SR87, DCR-SR67 and DCR-SR47 will begin shipping in February for about $500, $450 and $400, respectively. The MS-HX16G 16GB Memory Stick® media card will ship in March for around $140.

Sony HDR-SR12 10.2MP 120GB High Definition Hard Drive Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

Read Sony's press release for more marketing mumbojumbo.