The DSR-PD170P incorporates three 1/3-inch CCDs with 450,000 pixels (effective 400,000 pixels). The 1/3-inch size contributes to high sensitivity, improves the signal-to-noise ratio and reduces smear levels. The optical system supports a 58 mm lens with 12x zoom.

Professional 2ch audio input

The DSR-PD170P has two XLR audio input connectors which provide balanced connection to a range of professional microphones and other pro-audio signals. It also features independent control of two audio channels.

Hybrid 2.5-inch LCD colour monitor

The DSR-PD170P features a fold-out, tilting colour monitor that allows you to check recording quality, confirm playback on location, and conveniently set levels using the on-screen menu. A new precision Hybrid LCD panel (Transmissive and Reflective, 211,200 dots) has been adopted allowing clear viewing even in bright sunshine.

Precision Black & White viewfinder

The DSR-PD170P is equipped with an 180,000-dot LCD black-and-white viewfinder, which provides 500 lines of horizontal resolution - more than 20 percent higher than equivalent colour viewfinders. A larger size viewfinder and eye-cup are supplied as standard, and the window size of the magnifier has been enlarged allowing more comfortable use of the viewfinder than those of the previous model.

The LCD panel and viewfinder can be turned on simultaneously, allowing the user to control the focus on the viewfinder and set the camera angle on the LCD panel.

Optical Super SteadyShot

The DSR-PD170P employs the Super SteadyShot to detect the horizontal and vertical movements separately. The prism system located in the front of the lens adjusts and optically compensates for any unsteadiness.

Large carrying handle with zoom lever and Rec Start/Stop button

A zoom lever and a Rec Start/Stop button on the handle provides much easier zoom control and recording during low-angle shooting. Zoom speed can be selected by three position slide switch located on the side of the handle, from H (fast), L (slow) or Off.

The handle which is 10 mm higher than that of the previous model helps a better and easier grip.

DVCAM & DV recording

The DSR-PD170P adopts DVCAM format to offer professional video and audio quality as well as high reliability. It is also capable of recording and playing back DV format (SP only).

Manual functions

In addition to the auto functions, the DSR-PD170P has various for manual adjustment for professional use.
- Zoom
- Focus
- Iris
- Shutter speed
- Gain
- AE (Auto Exposure) Shift
- White Balance
- Custom Preset (Colour Level, Sharpness, White Balance Shift, AGC Limit)
- ND Filters (1/4 and 1/32)
- Spotlight
- Backlight
- Digital Effects (Still, Flash Motion, Luminance Key, Trail, Auto Movie)
- Audio Recording Level (CH1/CH2 separate or linked)
- Zebra Patterns (100% or 70%)
- Guide Frame

Time code preset

A unique feature of time-code settings on the DSR-PD170P is that they can be used to uniquely identify tapes. Time-code mode can be set to “record runEor “free runE

Memory Stick and protection features

A 4MB Memory Stick lets you store up to 60 VGA images (with progressive scan mode) and use them to create various special effects. Because these functions are password-protected, Memory Stick works as a key to camcorder operation and therefore protects against theft.

Supplied wide conversion lens and new lens hood

The popular wide conversion lens VCL-HG0758 and new lens hood LSF-S58 are bundled with the DSR-PD170P. The lens hood can be used with the wide conversion lens, or without lens.

Supplied hood with built-in lens cap

Another new hood with a built-in lens cap is also bundled. By using the lever on the side of the hood, the lens cap can be opened or closed.

i.LINK cable strap

This small plastic plate straps and protects the supplied i.LINK cable. It is useful for avoiding mishaps when an external hard drive (for example DSR-DU1) is being used for recording.