Panasonic PV-GS320 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Guy Bruner
Published on Jan 8, 2007 11:00 PM

Intro Performance
Format Tour
Auto / Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use Audio / Playback / Connectivity
Other Features
Comparisons / Conclusion
Specs/Ratings  
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Reviews: Panasonic PV-GS500 Camcorder Review · Panasonic PV-GS300 Camcorder Review · Panasonic PV-GS400


Conclusion
It comes as no surprise that Panasonic has reduced its 3CCD MiniDV camcorder line to one model.  High definition is the future and Panasonic makes no excuses about investing its efforts in high quality HD.  Also, the workflow associated with videotape is a real-time process.  Transferring video from tape to a computer for editing requires the same amount of time as the recording did originally.  DVD, SD, and hard disk drive storage offer random access to recorded clips on-camera,  and rapid transfer of the video from the media to computer. Standard definition DV still out-performs DVD video, but market trends indicate that DV's lifespan is reaching its end. 

So, the PV-GS320 is among the last vestiges of old DV tape technology.  Panasonic saved most of the prosumer features for its new technology camcorders.  If you buy the PV-GS320, you will get a no-frills, 3CCD, point and shoot MiniDV tape camcorder.  Buyers looking for this type of camcorder will get top DV quality at a bargain basement price.



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