Friday, September 24, 2004

Panasonic PV-GS400 Camcorder Review

Panasonic PV-GS400
Recommended as a video camera for any budding enthusiast just starting out, i.e. the cheapest video camera that they should consider.

PROS

  • top loading tape mechanism [no need to remove camera from tripod to change tape]
  • manual multi function ring, used for focus, zoom, aperture, shutter speed [no need to use on-screen menus]
  • record buttons on alternative locations [for getting different views through different holding positions]
  • 3CCD [good colour]

CONS [features missing are not found on cameras below its price]

  • no separate zoom & focus ring
  • low light video quality
  • dual function ports [can't use at the same time]

another review here

next step up would be

If we go beyond that it would be almost broadcast video quality; let's not go there, yet. One thing to note, the Japanese manufacturers seem to make products that stagger each other, i.e. no 2 cameras compete 100% directly.

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