Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom
by Panasonic
Our Price: $599.95
Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours
Buy Used: from $143.00 (click here)
Category: Digital Camera
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: PanasonicRelease Date: 2009-11-30
Model: DIGIMAXL85BLK
Color: Silver
Product features:
- Features 30x optical zoom and 1000x digital zoom
- Low-height, compact design with a convenient side-load mechanism for tapes
- 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD display
- Joystick control for easy operation and navigation
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Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom
Customer Review: Outrageous Value
Summary: 5 Stars
After spending countless paychecks getting the *best* (read: expensive) electronics, I took a step back and decided to get the best value instead. Little did I know I wasn't giving up much.
Like most Panasonic products, the interface on this camcorder is intuitive and easily deciphered. This model has a joystick in the center, a red record button and just five icons surrounding the joystick. Without reading the manual, I can tell you that the icons stand for PC interface, photo playback, picture-taking mode, video playback mode, and record video.
My husband usually wants me to show him how to use our new gadgets. This time, he didn't ask. In fact, he was the first one using it, picking it up for the first time and shooting without any guidance. His rating is a big thumbs-up.
The fact that this camcorder is extremely small and compact also adds to its allure. This week, without planning in advance, I picked up the GS-39 on my way to my son's school event and put it in my medium-sized purse. It was easy for me to quietly take casual video from the sidelines without looking like an overenthusiastic proud mama. The camcorder is less than the size of my D-SLR camera and, unlike the camera, makes no shutter noise.
After taking the school video, I went home and uploaded it to my computer (using Adobe Premiere Elements -- this product does not come with software, but then again, how many people actually use the product that comes with the camcorder?). The product worked seamlessly. There were no dropped frames, and the video was clear enough for the standard user. By that, I mean that it looks like what would have been considered superb three years ago.
I confess that I haven't had the opportunity to use the photo mode, which records still frames to a SD card. I like having the option, but like most integrated products, the resolution isn't as high as with a stand-alone camera.
To sum up this review, the GS39 is an excellent product at a fantastic price. The compact size and weight make it more likely to be taken to events and utilized. Don't let the price fool you. You'll still get all of the major features you need in a camcorder.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS AFTER 2 WEEKS OF CONSTANT USE:
I still rate this with five stars for the reasons above. However, I would like to add these observations for consideration. This camera takes excellent natural light photos, but is a little on the dark side under low light. It does have a built in light which you should turn on even when the video on the camcorder screen looks okay.
The photo mode was a nice idea, but captured video actually comes out nicer than still pictures from the photo mode.
All in all, I still don't think there's a better value on the market today.
Description of Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom
CL) MU) PAN PV-GS39 DV CAMCORDERThe Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom combines versatility, ergonomic design, a powerful zoom and enhanced PC connection options. With a new, low-height, compact design featuring a convenient side-load mechanism for inserting and removing tapes, the Panasonic PV GS29 offers the ultimate in point-and-shoot ease. The PV-GS29 includes a DV output (firewire) for easy digital connection to compatible PCs or digital video editing equipment, a 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD display, built-in LED light, and a 30x optical zoom and 1000x digital zoom. The camcorder also allows you to record in wide-screen format and includes a secure digital memory card slot. Joystick control offers users with easy operation and navigation.
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