To be released in late September, early October, the NEX-VG10E was first announced in May and showcased in July when Sony launched its mirrorless-interchangeable lens compact cameras.

The new model lets video enthusiasts and filmmakers used Sony's range of E-mount lenses, designed specifically for the NEX system, as well as Sony's full range of professional A-mount lenses released alongside its Alpha digital SLRs - using an adaptor. It uses a 14.2 megapixels Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, which, Sony claims, is 19.5x bigger than the standard sensor found in other consumer camcorders.

Speaking at a press event earlier this week, Paul Genge, technical marketing manager at Sony UK, says that "this marks a new introduction for us for not only this category of interchangeable lens handycams, but also the fact that it has a large sensor. And it's a category we believe has big potential for growth in the next few years."

He adds: "Obviously, since DSLRs have been recording video for a little while now, consumers have started to get wise to the fact that you can do more creative shooting in video with different lenses and a large sensor. We thought why not delivering the best consumer experience by putting that technology into a handycam-style product."

Genge also confirms that the NEX-VG10E is only the first camcorder to use DSLR technology, with other products being developed. "As a new category, we've got future developments for this. It's a totally new platform, reaching new consumers, delivering new user experiences."

He continues: "There is a definite trends towards video shooting today with photo and movie hobbyists who want to shoot, in great quality, movies and want to share them. It's the creativity angle that this product now offers. You're able to interchange lenses and shoot in a way unavailable before."

The NEX-VG10E uses Sony' BIONZ processor, can shoot full HD 1080p video, uses either Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD cards and comes with an "image-stabilised" E18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS lens. The camcorder will be bundled with a full version of Sony's Vegas movie editing software.

The NEX-VG10E will retail at a £2000 price point.

Visit sony.co.uk.

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