The high definition audio offered by the Q3 handy video recorder has now been joined by HD video with the release of the Q3HD. Featuring full 1080p at 30 frames per second or both 30 and 60 frames per second at 720p, the new model now benefits from a 5 megapixel CMOS sensor and an F2.8 fixed focus lens with 4x digital zoom.
Like the model before it, the Q3 HD sports a 2.4-inch, 320 x 240 resolution color LCD display with a new icon-based menu system, a built-in mono reference speaker and SDHC media card compatibility. Audio recording comes courtesy of 120 degree x/y stereo microphones capable of recording up to 24-bit/96kHz WAV or up to 320kbps AAC. An auto record level automatically decides on the most appropriate audio levels during recording and there's a line-in socket, a phones jack and an NTSC/PAL compatible TV output.
The Samson Technologies recorder comes bundled with HandyShare editing, YouTube uploader software and Apple Quicktime, a 2BG SD card, some AA-sized batteries, said to give two hours video or four hours audio recording, and is Windows and Mac compatible.
To make the most of the new high definition movie recording functionality, the Q3HD features a mini-HDMI port in addition to its built-in USB 2.0 cable. Recorded movies can also be viewed on the player in 16:9 widescreen by turning it on its side.
A range of accessories are also available, including a soft shell case, windscreen, AC adapter, HDMI cable, AV cable and tripod.
The Zoom Q3HD will be available before the end of the year for US$299.
