The Sony Handycam HDR-SR11 and HDR-SR12 are almost identical twins except for their hard disk drives. The former has 60 GB while the latter has two times as much. Both have the same ClearVid CMOS sensor and Bionz Image Processor that produces high-definition videos in a full 1920 x 1080 resolution, and 10.2-megapixel stills. These are recorded either directly to the HDDs or to a Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick Pro Duo.
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lenses that reduces glaring assure realistic colors and vivid images. A 12x optical zoom reinforced with a 150x digital zoom can bring distant subjects within an arm’s reach. A Digital Zoom Interpolation feature minimizes distortions that could result from digitally zooming in.
The camcorders feature a wide 3.2-inch XtraFine LCD screen with a 921k resolution that provides bright and well-defined images even in sunlight. It also has a wide viewing angle. These are great for composition as well as playback.
Expanding the world of the SR11 and SR12 is the Ikelite Underwater Video Housing which is especially designed for them. This can take the camcorders under the sea where there is an entirely different world and an endless opportunity for capturing breathtaking videos and stills.
The Ikelite housing has a depth rating of 200 feet. It is made out of corrosion-proof polycarbonate in a seamless construction. As the polycarbonate is clear, you can see right though the housing. You have full unobstructed view of the camcorder and its controls, including the O-ring seal allowing you to see if it is properly seated.
The housing provides access to the most important controls such as the power on/off, recording start/stop, zoom, and the LCD touch screen controls. Its port is threaded allowing the use of optional conversion lenses.
Along with the removable handle bar, the housing measures 11 inches. With the detachable base, it is 8 inches high, and also 8 inches deep.