"DVDirect" recorders debut

Sony today debuted the VRD-MC3 and VRD-VC30 recorders, featuring "computer-free" synchronization with the company's new Hard Disk Handycam camcorders. The "DVDirect" recorders enable real-time recording of home video footage as well as TV shows from digital video recorders to DVDs without the need for a computer. Both devices allow for quick video transfers from a digital camcorder via USB, and support consolidation of several mini-DVDs into a single full-size DVD by directly connecting to Sony DVD Handycams. The VRD-MC3 model also enables computer-free recording of digital still images directly from flash memory cards to DVD, enabling users to store photos or create a slideshow for playback on a home DVD player or computer DVD drive. Both recorders are slated for shipment in October for $250 (VRD-MC3) and $200 (VRD-VC30).

VRD-MC3

The multi-function VRD-MC3 recorder features a 2.5-inch color LCD with a wide-view filter -- three times wider than the previous model -- for easy previewing of video and images when used in stand-alone mode.

The VRD-MC3 also offers slots to accommodate media stored on Memory Stick, Memory Stick Duo, Compact Flash, Secure Digital (SD) cards, and xD cards. The device keeps JPEG files in their original high-resolution format, and is PictBridge-compatible.

Dolby Digital

Both models maintain Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, as well as 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios. Both units can also burn up to 12 hours of high-quality hardware-encoded MPEG-2 video on DVD+R DL double layer discs and up to four hours of video or up to 2,000 photos (VRD-MC3 only) onto supported standard, single layer discs.

Computer-attached mode

In computer-attached mode, the VRD-MC3 and VRD-VC30 models can burn DVD+R and DVD-R discs at 16X max, which equates to about six minutes of recording time for roughly two hours of video. Both devices also support 8X DVD-R DL/DVD+R DL/+RW, 6X DVD-RW, 40X CD-R, and 24X CD-RW maximum recording speeds.

Software bundle

Both models will ship with the Nero Essentials software suite, which help create copies of home movies and slideshows. The bundle includes DVD-video playing, backup, disc label creation, and drive tool software.

by MacNN Staff