This week Sony announced the World’s first ever digital recording binoculars of which there are going to be two different models – the DEV-3 and DEV-5 (who knows what happened to the number 4 version?) – both which come with a high price tag. Sony’s official press release references these digital recording binoculars being superb for looking at wildlife but I can’t help but think many of the buyers might intend to have more sinister uses for them!
Click here to pre-order on Amazon.com or read on below the image for a complete review of the new Sony Digital Recording Binoculars.
The Sony DEV-3 and DEV-5 models will let you record all that you see through the binocular lenses in AVCHD 2.0 format (Advanced Video Coding High Definition) so will be superb for ornithologists, bird watchers, and people who love watching nature in its element – or even, as a I suspect, people who love spying on over people – in other words the sort of person who probably already owns hidden spy cameras!
Full 3D and HD Capture with the Sony Digital Recording Binoculars
Every video that you record using the Sony Digital Recording Binoculars will be stored in full HD resolution. Each video will have stereo sound and believe it or not there’s even a 3D mode. You will need a compatible 3D HDTV in order to play and watch the 3D HD video capture back at home.
Both models can be connected via HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) to any HD television for viewing – and you can also use the USB connection to transfer the videos to your PC – where you can then edit, view, and compile all of your movies.
The video is captured via the two Sony G-Lenses, and these binoculars will record image in three different dimensions for the full cinematic experience. If at any point whilst observing and videoing you want to check back your video capture then you can even view what you’ve recorded whilst on the move in 3D by using the viewfinder.
Sony DEV-5 Digital Recording Binoculars Come with GPS
If you choose the DEV-5 model over the DEV-3 you will be able to take advantage of the in-built GPS receiver. This will let you geo-tag your images and video capture so you will know where and when you were when the action took place. You can then view your HD video after shooting using online maps – although this will require additional compatible software. I am not sure what this software is yet, but I| guess there will be some integration with a Google or Bing Maps application in the future.
Sony Digital Binoculars with HD Video Recording & Stealth Design
Both models come with variable zoom which means you can scan a wide area at low magnification before settling on your target. Once you have your view in range you can then zoom in seamlessly to pinpoint your subject. The Sony DEV-3 and DEV-5 have an electronic autofocus which means a moving target will stay in sharp focus all the time.
Sony state that their digital recording binoculars use a stealth design that has been created to help eliminate any distracting buttons or external details that might reveal your position to any wildlife (or your target!) – and the design certainly does look very military at first glance – almost like night vision goggles.
The grip on the binoculars is ergonomic and is coated with an elastomer material. This will help with handling and easy operation plus the controls on the top have been designed so that even if you are wearing gloves you can still use the equipment with ease.
Differences Between the Sony DEV-3 and Sony DEV-5 Binoculars
The DEV-3 will retail at around $1,399 US Dollars and the DEV-5 digital recording binoculars will be $1,999. Both models are essentially the same, however, if you pay an extra $600 Dollars for the DEV-5 version you will get some additional functionality including the GPS aspect, a 10x digital zoom, plus accessories including a carry case and neck strap.
Buy Cheap Sony Digital Recording Binoculars
A quick look on the Amazon website has revealed that they already have the product pages online but are already taking any pre-orders for when stock becomes available. It’s safe to say that Amazon will probably be the cheapest online retailer for Sony Digital Recording Binoculars. By the time you read this article they might have even dropped the prices so make sure you click on the links below to find out more.
More Information and Best Price on Cheap Digital Recording Binoculars
For more information on all different types and brands of digital recording binoculars as they become available plus the best and cheapest online prices then make sure you visit the dedicated Digital Recording Binoculars website.
For a full specification on the Sony Digital Recording Binoculars then go to the official Sony website which now has a dedicated section all about these new products.
