Hi,
Does anyone know of any new Panasonic MiniDV models that will be released in 2004.

New model of PV-DV953 ?

Normally they announce new products in January at CES.

Was wondering if anyone had heard any gossip of new models/ features/ functions of new models and if the PV-DV953 will be replaced with new model with new added functions.

Thanks,

sbains,

I know of only two and one of the two is really an upgrade. They are the AG-DVC30 & the upgrade of the AG-DVX100 to the DVX-100A.

" Panasonic also announced the AG-DVC30, which includes three 410K pixel CCDs. The company was a little vague on the details of the AG-DVC30, however the Panasonic web site said that it includes ''New Infrared Nighttime Recording Mode and Slow Shutter for Ultrahigh Sensitivity'' and a ''Movie-Like Recording Mode."

"The main upgrade of the AG-DV100A over the AG-DVX100 is in picture quality and picture control. According to a brochure, the camcorder has ''Optimized color separation optics and a new high-performance lens that uses low-dispersion glass combine to capture vivid, faithful colors.'' The AG-DVX100A is now outfitted with an improved RGB gamma processor that should deliver color separation and reproduction capabilities that exceed the capabilities of the previous model. The improved gamma processor is touted as having the ability to create film like images, with three film style settings: CINE-LIKE-D with an emphasis on dynamic range, CINE-LIKE-V with an emphasis on luminance and B.PRESS for images with stronger black contrast. The camcorder's maximum gain up has been increased to + 12 dB. V DTL Level, Coring, and Knee adjustments have been added to the AG-DVX100A. The new 16:9 mode called, ''Squeeze Mode for 16:9 Recording'' works with an optional 16:9 conversion lens."

The above are quotes from an article on the AG-DVX100a that can be found at:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/conten...ie-11_20_03.htm

__________________
Dave

You cannot motivate the best people with money. Money is just a way to keep score The best people in any field are motivated by passion
--Eric S. Raymond

Thanks Dave for the info.

Do you know if Panasonic will release a newer model of the PV-DV953 perhaps a PV-DV954 or something ?

With CES coming Jan 7th I am in a pickle if I should wait for a new announcement for a newer model of PV-DV953 or buy now.

Wish I new if they had any plans for 2004 for any new PV-DV953 line.

Thanks,

Got some confirmation that Panasonic will be replacing the PV-DV953 next year in 2004 with a new model.

Here is email dialog with them, expect details at CES Jan 7th.

I emailed Panasonic using Contact US and received this reply. I have removed the email address.

Assume we will read CES news here first.

----------------------------------

"Farrell, Kalia" wrote:
yes it will be.

-----
Subject: RE: Customer Information

Kalia,
Can you please let me know if the Panasonic PV-DV953 will be replaced with a newer model - just looking for a yes or no then I will know to wait.

Will these products be announced at CES on Jan 7th ?

Thanks,
Satnam

-------------
Hi Satnam~

We will have new models available, but nothing can be disclosed before 2004. Thank you for your interest in Panasonic products

~Kalia

Let's hope this is not one of Panasonic's ways to attract people to their booth at CES show, because right now there are two weights on my scale -- PV-DV953 and TRV950. TRV950 is pulling down hard.

CCD manufacturers have in the past made square pixels of uniform size. The larger the CCD the costlier a uniform coaing, The larger size benefited by using larger pixels with greater light absorbing property . A new aproach is being employed using hexagonal pixel size an a varying geometry of layout whereby small and large pixels are used. This translates in using the more economical smaller size CCD's which will have better low light capabilities, as well as benefiting with color fidelity. It is analogous to film stock where fine particles are giving sharper pictures but are slower to react to light than the higher ASA films whith larger granuals.

Is any particular manufacturer involved in this, and when is ETA?

// webtekie

You can be sure if it works then most of them will use it. Have no more news on this unfortunately.