Panasonic PV-GS180 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Guy Bruner
Published on Jan 24, 2006 3:00 PM

Intro Performance
Format Tour
Auto / Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use
 Audio / Playback / Connectivity
Other Features Comparisons / Conclusion


Handling
The PV-GS180 is an even smaller camcorder than the GS300, and Panasonic touts it as the smallest 3 CCD MiniDV camcorder being manufactured. It’s not uncomfortably small, however; users that appreciate a small format camcorder will be happy with the PV-GS180. When grasped with the right hand inserted through the hand strap, the PV-GS180 sits comfortably in the right palm. This positions the zoom slider and photoshot button directly under the index finger. The right thumb can easily access the joystick control for setting menu functions and for manual focus adjustments. The record/pause button is right next to the joystick control and is also easily accessible with the right thumb.

 

LCD/Viewfinder
The color LCD on the PV-GS180 is a 2.5”, 4:3 display. It rotates away from the body 90 degrees and may also be flipped to the front for self-portrait shooting. The electronic viewfinder is also color. The degree of information displayed during shooting or playback is selectable in the menus. The EVF eyepiece may be withdrawn so that the user’s eye can be positioned away from the battery that protrudes from the back of the camcorder. However, the EVF does not tilt which limits its usefulness for certain shots.






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