Sony has enhanced its 2005 DVD Handycam camcorder line with new technology and design. The five new DVD models incorporate features such as Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround recording, DVD+RW/-RW/-R compatibility and touch-panel displays. DVD recordings can be played back using most current home DVD players and PC drives, as well as later releases of PlayStation2 videogame consoles.

The DCR-DVD403 includes Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator, with built-in multi-channel microphones. The model also has a 3.3-megapixel advanced HAD CCD for higher-quality video and 3-megapixel still images. A 2.7-inch-wide hybrid SwivelScreen touch-panel LCD screen allows viewing on wide-screen televisions. A Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens and built-in flash complete the package.

Two other options for surround sound recording are provided by the DCR-DVD203 and DCR-DVD103 models, both of which have external microphones. The DCR-DVD203 has a 1.07-megapixel advanced HAD CCD and a 2.7-inch SwivelScreen touch-panel LCD Screen. The DCR-DVD103 also has advanced HAD CCD and 2.5-inch touch-panel LCD Screen.

The DCR-DVD92 entry-level model is available for about $600. The other models in the line are priced at DCR-DVD103 and DCR-DVD7, about $700; DCR-DVD203, about $800; and DCR-DVD403 DVD, about $1,000.