Sony uses some of the high pixel-count for the stabilizer,
and uses the rest to interpolate better-than-average video
resolution for a one-chipper. The stills, though, still look
best shot at 640x480 (the higher-res ones show considerable
color noise, sometimes acceptable...). Increasing the
pixel-count for a given size CCD results in smaller pixels
and lower sensitivity, limiting low-light reach (which
limits how far the designer wants to go with increasing
pixel-count...).

On Mon, 07 Jan 2002 00:14:16 GMT, "T&D" wrote:

>Well, I'm looking at the TRV30 right now with a 1.5 mega pixel still. I
>guess I'm wondering if they're coming out with anything with a better still
>camera in it.

>"Neuman - Ruether" wrote in message
>news:3c39e5d7.2498015@newsstand.cit.cornell.edu...
>> On Sun, 06 Jan 2002 21:26:14 GMT, "T&D"
>> wrote:
>>
>> >Anyone know what is on the horizon for Sony digital camcorders here in
>the
>> >US? I'm about to buy a DCR-TRV30 but am willing to wait a little while
>if
>> >there is something MUCH better on the horizon.

>> Hmmmm...., you are going to wait for a one-chipper
>> that is sharper, with better color, or what?
>> The PC120 is smaller, but similar, but both are
>> just about at the limit of what is possible for
>> sharpness and color quality for one-chip Mini-DV,
>> though the 3-chip alternatives produce a smoother
>> picture and greater low-light range (and one of
>> those, the TRV900, is roughly the same price as
>> the PC120...). You may wait forever...;-)