Sanyo Xacti VPC-C5 Review

Click to take a QTVR tour of the Xacti C5

The Sanyo "Xacti C5" is a stylishly thin, pocket-sized 5-megapixel digital camera and full-motion MPEG-4 video camera offering built-in digital image stabilization and a swiveling 2-inch trans-reflective LCD screen. Users can also select real-time interpolation up to 10 megapixels which allows photos to be enlarged to "bigger than life" proportions without sacrificing image fidelity.

This tiny camera has a precision 5x optical zoom lens that remains internal to the camera body and features a 5-point auto focus system. Most instances of camera shake will be eliminated or greatly reduced by the digital image stabilization system. Never again will precious photo opportunities be missed, because the versatile Xacti C5 can take high-resolution digital still images while simultaneously recording video.

The C5 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.

(The C5 is only available in silver in N. America)

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 an optional 1GB SD memory card.

Still images and video files recorded by the C5 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 to the TV, or transferred to a VCR or DVD player. A-V outputs provide for stereo audio, video and S-Video connections from the camera or the included docking station.

Xacti C5 Features:

• Compact and ultra-thin (less than an inch!) metal alloy body
• 5-megapixel CCD imager with 10-megapixel interpolated mode
• 5x optical non-extending zoom with 38-190mm equivalent coverage
• Digital image stabilizer for shake-free stills and movies
• Capture hi-res still images during movie recording
• Automatic macro focus switching with Super Macro option
• 2.0" swiveling color LCD, visible even in bright sunlight
• Advanced TTL 5-point autofocus system with manual focus option
• Program Auto, 7 Scene modes and Movie recording
• Up to one hour of 640x480 / 30fps, MPEG-4 video recording with stereo sound on a 1GB SD memory card
• Composite video and S-Video outputs for TV viewing
• AAC-LC (MPEG-4 Audio) stereo provides superb 48 kHz, 16-bit, 2-channel sound
• Evaluative metering on focus point, Center-weighted and Spot options
• White Balance: Auto, 5 presets or Custom
• Talking Navigation Guide is helpful for first-time users
• Color filters: Cosmetic, B&W, Sepia
• ISO speeds from 50-400 still image, 200-800 in movie mode
• Voice Recorder Function - record up to 9 hours of audio notes
• Built-in stereo microphones and speaker
• Built-in 3-mode flash for better snapshots indoors and out
• Secure Digital memory card storage (128MB supplied in U.S.)
• Docking Station with wireless remote control included
• Rechargeable Li-ion battery and charger included
• Leather carrying case included
• Direct print and PictBridge Compatible
• USB plug-n-play connectivity for PC and Mac
• Web cam function

The Xacti C5 has a suggested retail price of $699.99. Actual retail prices may vary depending on market area and bundled SD card. It includes Sanyo Software Pack 7.2 (lead Photo Explorer 8.0 SE Basic, Ulead DVD MovieFactory 3.5 SE, Motion Director SE 1.1, QuickTime 6.5), 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 slimmer Xacti C5 and the 4-megapixel Xacti C4.