While the HVR-V1U can record to DV or HDV tape, the unit can also be married to the HVR-DR60, a 60 GB hard-disk recording unit that offers up to 4.5 hours of recording time in either the HDV or DVCAM/DV mode. The hard-disk also has a buffer memory function, allowing up to 14 seconds of video and audio signals to be continuously buffered in the memory while the camera is in stand-by mode.

The HVR-V1U camcorder's 3 ClearVid CMOS Sensor system natively captures progressive images at 24p, 30p or 60p, while maintaining full 1080 HDV resolution. Footage shot using the progressive scan feature can be played back on any of Sony's HDV professional camcorders and VTRs, and be edited with compatible nonlinear editing systems.

Additional professional features include: a timecode preset function; a TC Link to synchronize timecodes; two XLR microphone inputs; a  3.5-inch Clear Photo LCD plus viewing screen; and a cueing function that allows users to review takes without having to manually rewind tape.

The camcorder and hard drive will be available in December for $4,800 and $1,800 respectively.