is there a difference between the Sanyo xacti hd## models as far as NTSC/PAL is concerned?

Hey, Fergus.
Well, the fact that the Sanyo VPC-HD1A is both for NTSC and PAL, its a nice option to have for international viewing compatibility, but as far as video quality goes, it doesn't make a difference. It still records in an MPEG-4 video format which is superior over MPEG-2. Most MPEG video camcorders record in MPEG-2, so with MPEG-4 you are going to get some nice results.

Flash Media, NTSC / PAL, 1 x CCD, 10x Optical Zoom:

The Sanyo VPC-HD1A brings high definition video recording to a new, compact and low-cost level. This miniature camera resembles some digital still photo cameras in its vertical layout. It has an LED display monitor built in for new levels of power and space efficiency with increased light output and faster response times over traditional displays. The VPC-HD1A does not use video tape for recording but uses MPEG4 compression onto inexpensive SD/SDHC cards. In fact, a 2 GB card will record over 40 minutes of HD video. Because the recording process uses no moving parts, the card can be reused far more times than a video cassette. 5.1 Megapixel digital stills, image stabilization, and wind noise reduction are just some of the many features this PC and Mac compatible stylish camera comes with.

Included Accessories Software • USB Cable • A/V Cable • Bag • Cradle / Docking Station • Hand Strap • Driver • AC Power Adapter • Remote Control • Lens Cap • Cable Adapter • Battery

Conlusion: its a cool little high qaulity cam.

Happy Shopping!

Thanks for your reply. Is the Sanyo VPC-HD1A the only one which will output both NTSC and PAL. Is there a different variant which only does NTSC only for the US market?

Hey, Fergus.
I will check for you, but its really a bonus if it does both. Does it matter to you?

I will follow up soon!

Hey, Fergus.

There were some mixed reviews I had to double check, but it finally looks like the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1 is both NTSC/PAL, and the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1A is only NTSC.

Also as you already know, the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1A is a lower cost.

The nice thing about these two HD cameras is that it records purely on media memory cards which will very easy to download to Mac, or PC. This type of video recording system will be the next wave of mainstream camcorders in the future. There is already an indication of that with hybrid video systems presently on the market.

I hope this concludes your question.

Happy Shopping!

Fergus.
One final thing, an extended warranty could be a good investment if you plan to well use your camcorder. Consumer camcorders in general are not commercial/industrial grade.

By the way, the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1-A will also produce some nice still photos.

Have fun shooting!

Fergus.
Is there any further advice you need, if so just ask in the reply box below. We will be happy to conclude your question.

Thanks!

I think you've possibly swapped them over - the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1A outputs both NTSC and PAL where as I wasn't sure about the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1, which from what you are saying is probably NTSC only. I also expect that the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD2 outputs both but I wasn't sure.

The reason I asked is that a US retailer was charging extra for the Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1A on the grounds that it was PAL compatible - but I wasn't sure if this was a genuine reason.

Fregus.
As I mentioned, there were a number of mixed reviews on this, so it just seems that some sites really don't update their information and specifications as most consumers wouldn't know the difference. Its a little frustrating at times when the only info you got to go on is just invalid information. Plus when a saleman just tells you something incorrect, it makes it even worse.

So, I am taking this that you are interested in the inexpensive camcorder model that records NTSC regardless the model number or whether it also offers PAL or not, is that correct.

Waiting for your response.

Fregus.
Here is another site I have come across for specs that also shows the Xacti-VPC-HD1 to be both NTSC and PAL

http://www50.shopping.com/xPF-Sanyo-Sanyo-VPC-HD1-High-Definition-Digital-Media-Camcorder-VPCHD1

Sanyo-Xacti-VPC-HD1 flash media
http://www50.shopping.com/xPF-Sanyo-Xacti-VPC-HD1A



Here is a link page better info details on Sanyo-Xacti-VPC-HD1A:
this page doesn't indicate the Broadcast format but it gives good specs.

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_reviews/hd1a.html#specs

Many thanks Piero.

Fergus

You are welcome, Fergus.

Many consumers that were debating over NTSC or PAL because of their international travels, would have loved to have both. Big Bonus!

Happy Shooting!