Stylistically, Sony's new YouTube-capable camcorder treads a bizarre line between CVS disposable and bitchin' retro-hip. Chunky, black, and monolithic, it's nothing if not unusual. But even if the design suits your fancy, the NSC-GC1's overall performance will inevitably drop the ball. Ergonomically, we just couldn't get used to the unabashed rectangular block and it's tiny, strangely placed buttons. The itsy-bitsy joystick is especially frustrating - its vague feel and cheap construction makes navigating the equally-clunky menus a chore. Video quality is decent at best (VGA and QVGA resolutions only). The 5-megapixel still camera is a nice addition to a pocket camcorder like this, but with a shaky digital zoom and mediocre lens, we just can't justify parting ways with two hundred smackers to own one.
Review: Sony MPEG4 Net Sharing Camcorder
Stylistically, Sony’s new YouTube-capable camcorder treads a bizarre line between CVS disposable and bitchin’ retro-hip. Chunky, black, and monolithic, it’s nothing if not unusual. But even if the design suits your fancy, the NSC-GC1’s overall performance will inevitably drop the ball. Ergonomically, we just couldn’t get used to the unabashed rectangular block and it’s tiny, […]
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WIRED
YouTube software is loaded on camera for use on any computer. Flip-out, rotating screen makes it easier to shoot odd angles. Picture Motion Browser software is friendly, but not all that quicker or easier than YouTube's own uploading mechanism. Sports on screen histogram and an assortment of manual-esque controls.
TIRED
Design flaw: it's far to easy to unintentionally obscure the flash with fingers. Video quality isn't great. Odd, clunky design. Wholly non-intuitive interface and small, pokey buttons. Glossy black finish is a streak-magnet. No internal memory! Memory Stick Duo purchase is mandatory ($35 at sony.com). Lousy internal mic (with no line in or mic jack) makes for lousy audio.
- Digital Zoom: 4x