Sanyo Xacti VPC-C4 Review

Click to take a QTVR tour of the Xacti C4

(Note to potential buyers: The Xacti C4 is not being officially sold in N. America but can be found on eBay. The newer and higher resolution 5-megapixel Xacti C5 model is available worldwide, see our user review here.)

The Sanyo "Xacti C4" is a stylishly thin, pocket-sized 4-megapixel hybrid - it's both a digital still camera and MPEG-4 video camera offering built-in digital image stabilization and a swiveling 1.8-inch trans-reflective LCD screen. Users can select real-time interpolation up to 8 megapixels which allows photos to be enlarged to "bigger than life" proportions without sacrificing image fidelity. The Xacti C4 is available in silver, gold, blue or orange models.

This palm-size camera has a precision 5.8x optical zoom lens that remains internal to the camera body and features a 5-point auto focus system. Most instances of camera shake during movie recording will be eliminated or greatly reduced by the digital image stabilization system. Up to one hour of high resolution VGA (640x480) @ 30fps, MPEG-4 video recording with 48 kHz, 16-bit stereo sound can be captured on a 1GB SD memory card. Never again will you miss those precious photo ops because the versatile Xacti C4 can also capture high-resolution digital still images while simultaneously recording video.

The Xacti C4 employs Sanyo's proprietary digital optimization technology to remove color moir�s and reduce aliasing and noise caused by dots. This technology improves the high-frequency characteristics of the image and enhances diagonal resolution for higher-quality images.

Still images and video files recorded by the C4 can be quickly uploaded via USB to a PC or Mac for viewing, editing and sharing via e-mail. Images and video can also be played back directly on your TV, or transferred to a VCR or DVD player. A-V outputs provide for stereo audio, video and S-Video connections direct from the camera or via the included docking station.

Xacti C5 Features:

• Compact, lightweight and thin (only 1.34" thick) body
• 4-megapixel CCD imager with 8-megapixel interpolated mode
• 5.8x optical non-extending zoom with 38-220mm equivalent coverage
• Digital image stabilizer for shake-free movies
• Capture hi-res still images during movie recording
• Automatic macro focus switching with Super Macro option
• 1.8" swiveling color LCD is visible even in bright sunlight
• Advanced TTL 5-point autofocus system with manual focus option
• Program Auto, 6 Scene modes, Movie and Voice recording
• Record one hour of 640x480/30fps, MPEG-4 video on 1GB SD card
• AAC-LC (MPEG-4 Audio) provides superb 48 kHz, 16-bit, stereo sound
• Evaluative metering on the focus point
• White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
• Talking Navigation Guide is helpful for first-time users
• Color filters: Cosmetic, B&W, Sepia
• ISO speeds 50-400 still image (up to ISO 1600 in Lamp mode), 200-1600 in movie mode
• Voice Recorder Function - record up to 9 hours of audio notes
• Built-in stereo microphones and speaker
• Built-in flash for better snapshots indoors and out
• Secure Digital memory card storage
• Docking Station with wireless remote control included
• Rechargeable Li-ion battery and charger included
• Leather padded carrying case included
• Direct print and PictBridge Compatible
• USB plug-n-play connectivity for PC and Mac

The Sanyo Xacti C4 outfit includes Sanyo Software Pack 7.1, Docking Station, AV interface cable, USB cable, AC adapter/charger, Li-ion Battery, Lens Cap, Soft Case, Remote Control, Cable Adapter, Power Cord, Strap, Quick Guide.

Physical Views

The Xacti C4 compared in size to a standard CD.

The slimmer, 5-megapixel Xacti C5 and the Xacti C4.