Camcorder Review: Panasonic PV-GS70 Mini DV (page 2)
Stills
Like most other video cameras we've reviewed, you should not buy the GS70 because of its still image feature. At only 1.2 million pixels, even the cheapest digital still cameras outshoot the GS70. It's not that the stills of the GS70 are poor, they just aren't impressive anymore.
Triple
There are very few camcorders that compare to the Panasonic PV-GS70 in terms of features in this size and price range. Yes, it needs enough light to shoot a beautiful image, but the exposure controls will allow you to at least get a picture even in very dark situations. Don't expect the three CCDs (or any other technology) to magically make your video "broadcast quality" (whatever that means). If you are looking for a good little shooter, the GS70 is a very portable, compact camera that shoots a nice image, has a full set of manual controls and the necessary microphone and headphone jacks all serious videographers need.
TECH SPECS
Format: Mini DV
Lens: f/1.8, fl=2.45mm to 24.5mm, 10x optical zoom, 37mm filter diameter
Image sensor: 3 x 1/6-inch CCD
Gross pixels (per CCD): 460k
Viewfinder: color
LCD viewscreen: 2.5-inch color
Focus: auto, manual
Anamorphic 16:9: no
Image Stabilization: electronic
Exposure: auto, manual, presets (5)
Minimum Shutter Speed: 1/60
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/8,000
Iris: auto, manual
Electronic Gain: +18dB
White Balance: auto, manual, presets (2)
Audio: 12-bit (default), 16-bit
Microphone Input: 1/8-inch mini
Headphone Output: 1/8-inch stereo mini
Inputs: FireWire, S-video, composite
Outputs: FireWire, S-video, composite
Edit Interface: FireWire
Other features: still shot (1,280 x 960), 8MB SD card, flash, wired remote zoom control
Dimensions (w x h x d): 3 x 2.75 x 5.25 inches
Weight (sans tape and battery): 1.06 lbs.
Strengths
- Sharp images, saturated colors
- Full set of manual exposure controls
- Microphone and headphone jacks
Weaknesses
- Needs plenty of light
- Average image stabilization
SUMMARY
The PV-GS70 is a very portable, compact camera that shoots a nice image, has a full set of manual controls and has the necessary audio jacks.
D. Eric Franks is Videomaker's Technical Editor.
Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
One Panasonic Way
Secaucus, NJ 07094
(800) 211-PANA
www.panasonic.com
$1,000
