Tech Column: HD Camera

If you're interested in recording HD video on the go, but can't afford professional equipment, then take a gander at Sanyo's VPC-CS1, a slim camcorder that is part of Sanyo's Xacti series, a line of cameras designed for everyday shooting.

Flip cams have been around for a few years, but this particular model is boasted as "the world's smallest and thinnest Dual Camera Exacti," according to us.sanyo.com. At 126 cubic centimeters, the VPC-CS1 easily fits in your pocket, and weighs less than half a pound. Capable of shooting at 1920x1080 (full HD), this product is a steal at $300.

Additionally, the VPC-CS1 has three methods of recording audio. Stereo recording is of course possible, though a second mode allows for sound to be recorded from wherever the camera is pointing. A third option changes audio settings based on the lens's zoom. This kind of dynamic audio extraction is a godsend for those who don't wish to bother with an external microphone.

Other features include photo shooting at six frames per second, HDMI output for viewing content on HD TV's, familiar file formats for easy Mac and PC video editing, and an impressive battery life: "200 still shots, 60 minutes of video or for around 210 minutes of continuous playback," according to gizmag.com. For less than a blue collar paycheck, you can be on your way to shooting high quality video with one of the most compact models on the market.