Sony Handycam HDR-XR520VE

Audio Features (5.25)

The Sony HDR-XR520VE has the two most essential audio features for a consumer camcorder—an external mic jack and a headphone output. Both are located near the back of the camcorder behind a protective door-covering. Other than that, there aren't too many extra audio capabilities on the camcorder. There is no audio level control, which means if you connect an external microphone you won't be able to raise or lower the audio gain control. The built-in microphone can be slightly adjusted, however, with settings for normal or low recording. You can also switch between 5.1 channel surround sound recording and 2-channel stereo (in case you're trying to trim down those beefy AVCHD files). The zoom mic feature for the built-in microphone enables the camcorder to 'focus-in' the audio recording on subjects as you zoom in on them. It doesn't work perfectly, and it can pick up a bit of hiss when you're zoomed in far, but it could be a useful feature for some users.

The built-in mic can be scuffed by stray fingers, but it can record 5.1-channel or 2-channel audio

The placement of the built-in microphone on the XR520VE is a bit problematic. The mic is located on the top-front of the camcorder, in an area that is prone to rubs and bumps from pinkies or other wandering fingers (especially if you have larger hands). Behind the on-board mic is a sliding compartment that houses a hot accessory shoe. External microphones (as well as lights or flashes) can be mounted here, but the shoe is only compatible with Sony-brand accessories (due to its proprietary design).

Other Features (5.5)

Nightshot Light
The front of the camcorder comes equipped with an infrared light, which can be manually switched on and off from within the Home menu. The light certainly helps with low light scenarios, but your subjects won't exactly look natural. And it will never look as good as a mounted video light or the 'getting up to turn on the light switch' lowlight mode.

Remaining Set, Battery Info
The Remaining Set feature displays the remaining time available for recording. We are not sure why this is an independent feature in the menus and not part of the normal display info toggle. There is also a detailed Battery Info screen, which will tell you the precise time remaining on a battery, depending on whether you use the LCD or viewfinder.

Drop Sensor
The Sony HDR-XR520 has a drop sensor, which is essentially like lifting the needle from a record player to protect the disc. This protects the hard drive from damage in the event of a sudden tumble down the stairs. It also means that you should record to memory card if you plan on taking a particularly bumpy ride or sharp fall. And remember: drop sensor doesn't make your hard drive indestructable; HDDs are still more prone to damage than solid state memory.

Global Positioning System (GPS)
TBA (testing in progress)

Smooth Slow Recording
The XR520's slow motion feature. This takes about three seconds of motion and turns it into a 12-second clip of slow motion.

Fader
Just lets you add a black or white fade to the beginning and end of your clips. This is usually better done in post-production, but the option is there in-camera if you need it.