Super performance! No transport problem here.
Written: Mar 10 '05
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Pros: Leica lens. 3ccd image sensor. Size. Portability. 3.5" LCD screen. Video quality. Value.
Cons: Playback controls under LCD. No external volume control (in menu).
The Bottom Line: Get it if you can. Best deal for what you get. Outperforms any camera in its class in video quality and ease of use. I am extremely satisfied.
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| murph869's Full Review: Panasonic PV-GS400 Mini DV Digital Camcorder |
The Panasonic PV-GS400 is one of the best cameras for the money. The size is perfect for most hands and it has a 3.5" screen! The Leica lens is incredible and the sound is more than fine even though you have the option of adding a better external mic. I was amazed at the clarity of the video. It looked as good as any "pro" camera I've seen. The video performance should satisfy the most critical videographer, except maybe your local or network cameraperson. But they use equipment that costs at least ten times this camera. The portability is tremendous. The menu does take about ten minutes to study over and semi-master. Long periods of not using the camera may require re-learning same. I do regret that the playback controls are behind the fold out LCD screen, thus allowing playback only when the screen is open and not through the viewfinder. When viewing playback, with the screen open, the sound is audible for all to hear. Not so good when you are cueing up the camera during a play or classical band concert. I learned the hard way! Adjusting the volume is done through the menu and can be tedious. Oh well, live and learn. The 12 power Leica lens is exceptional. The still photography capability is a plus. It's rated at four (4) mega-pixel. SD Media cards are cheap enough these days where the "negative" of the camera not coming with one is not a detraction. At 4mp, the usual cards these cameras come with is useless anyways due to the size of each image (on the small "supplied" cards). Battery life is impressive with supplied Lithium-Ion battery, although I would recommend getting another one for vacations, etc. Overall, I would highly recommend this camera, if your budget permits, over any other video camera in its range. The 3CCD sensor chip is similar to that used in professional cameras by TV stations and those who get paid for their services. Get it and enjoy!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1200
Recommended for: Professional Videographers - Broadcast Quality Videos
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murph869
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