From: ray on
On Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:02:58 -0700, RichA wrote:

> Sony HDRCX550 AVCHD 64GB Handycam Camcorder
>
> Equipped with state-of-the-art technology to help first time users to
> effortlessly capture breathtaking 1920 x 1080 videos in up to 90
> different scenes, this 64GB HD Handycam® Camcorder also features a fully
> manual features set for those with a bit more experience. An "Exmor R"
> CMOS sensor provides superior low-light performance, while Optical
> SteadyShotâ„¢ image stabilization with Active Mode and 3-way Shake
> Canceling enables you to capture remarkably smooth video from wide angle
> to full telephoto shooting. Also captures 12MP still images directly to
> 64GB of embedded Flash memory. Now $1179

Part of the reason is that a decent digital camera does not cost $1179.