The HDR-CX900 brings broadcast-quality HD video into a compact, handheld form factor. Its standout feature is the large 1.0-type (13.2mm x 8.8mm) back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor, which is significantly larger than those found in typical consumer camcorders and allows for capturing images with a desirable shallow depth-of-field and reduced noise in low-light conditions. The camera records in various high-bit-rate formats, including XAVC S (up to 50 Mbps), AVCHD, and web-optimized MP4, offering flexibility for both high-quality archiving and instant sharing.A 12x optical zoom ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens provides a wide 29mm equivalent focal length, ideal for landscapes, while the BIONZ X image processor enables advanced features like high-speed recording at 120 fps for smooth slow-motion playback. Manual control is a key aspect, with a lens ring and manual dial for intuitive adjustment of focus/zoom, iris, gain, and shutter speed, empowering videographers with creative control over their footage. The camcorder also features a high-contrast 0.39" OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a large 3.5" XtraFine LCD touchscreen for framing and review.