Panasonic PV-GS39 Camcorder Review

by James Murray
Published on Jan 27, 2006 3:00 PM

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



Comparison
Panasonic PV-GS31
The Panasonic PV-GS31 was released last year by Panasonic and provided users with only 26x optical zoom, a slightly smaller 2.5-inch LCD screen, a lack of 16:9 screen resolution, and a top-loading larger camcorder body. The actual image sensor size and resolution has not changed on the new PV-GS39, nor have the ports. There are also the same manual control options and presets. Panasonic did however improve upon a more complicated menu structure this year with the PV-GS39’s joystick method, providing users with easier navigation. Our pick: the GS39.

Panasonic PV-GS59
The Panasonic PV-GS59, new this year, is not going to provide users with a larger CCD, a mic input, or S-Video port; however, it will give users a few more playback control options, an editing software suite, Hi-Speed USB 2.0, and audio dubbing. Whether or not the extra $30 that will be spent to get these features is worth it depends upon the user’s needs. If you don’t intend to use the PV-GS39 camcorder as a web camera and you already own editing software or an Apple with a program such as iMovie, then buying into this upgrade probably doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Frankly, we're torn on this one.

Panasonic PV-GS29
The Panasonic PV-GS29, also new this year, and the bottom-end model in the MiniDV line, definitely has a more limited feature set for users: it restricts still images to MiniDV tape, provides a smaller 2.5-inch LCD, no USB port, and no native 16:9 format found on both the PV-GS39 and the PV-GS59. That being said, this camera model will be more appealing to the budget consumer not concerned with these specific features but interested in manual control options. This camcorder has the same sensor size and resolution as the PV-GS39 and PV-GS59. Opt for the GS39.

Sony DCR-HC26
The Sony DCR-HC26 uses a similar 680K, 340K effective pixel 1/6-inch CCD with a smaller LCD screen measuring 2.5 inches. This model also has a smaller shutter speed range and only accepts Sony’s proprietary MemoryStick memory card format for still images. It does however provide USB, FireWire, and Composite A/V. Manual control over exposure and white balance is also possible with the HC26; the settings are comparable to those of the PV-GS39. Unlike the PV-GS29 and PV-GS39, this camcorder by Sony does come with editing software. It’s called Picture Package version 1.5. Definitely the GS39.

Canon ZR600
The Canon ZR600 has a higher effective pixel count of 450K when compared to the 340K provided with the PV-GS39, and it is also able to provide still image options which easily surpass those found on the PV-GS39 (it allows a maximum resolution of 1024 x 768). That being said, this model by Canon is equipped with a 25x optical zoom lens which is unfortunately a bit stunted when compared with the 30x zoom of the PV-GS39. The Canon ZR600 manages to trump the PV-GS39 when it comes to ports by providing not only FireWire and USB ports but also an often-used S-Video port for higher quality video than what is produced when footage is exported from a Composite A/V port. In addition to these features, Canon also manages to match the 2.7-inch LCD found with the PV-GS39. Unfortunately, consumers can’t expect to attain the same level of manual control as they could with the Panasonic models listed within the same price range. The ZR600 provides minimal control over focus, white balance and EV compensation, while restricting users from accessing full control over gain, shutter speed, or aperture. This is a close call. Try them both out and see what you think.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters (5.0)
For the Point-and-Shoot user the PV-GS39 provides some compelling arguments for being a camcorder to examine twice. The basic menu structure is great, as is the opportunity to slowly enter into more manual controls as one grows accustomed to this camcorder’s structure.  

Budget Consumers (8.0)
With an MSRP of under $350 to begin with, the PV-GS39 should be an appealing option to any budget consumer looking for manual controls, some basic hybrid functionality in their camcorder, and the opportunity to shoot in native 16:9 format.  

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid (3.0)
For the user seeking hybrid capabilities this camera is surely a step up from the PV-GS29, which only records still images to tape. However, there aren’t any real shooing control options for still images and with the maximum resolution at 640 x 480 out of two resolution options, this camcorder provides only the bare essentials with an SD card.  

Gadget Freaks (3.5)
The Gadget Freak isn’t likely to find this camcorder useful in expanding their geek status, although the 16:9 native shooting mode and the budget price make this a handy additional camera for the 4:3-based Gadget Freak who is looking for another inexpensive format option.  

Manual Control Freaks (7.0)
The Manual Control Freak will definitely be satisfied, especially if operating under a budget as well. The Manual Control Freak will have their appetite satiated by a sensitive gain control, aperture control, shutter control, white balance presets with a manual option, manual focus, and 30x optical zoom.  

Pros / Serious Hobbyists (5.0)
There wouldn’t be any real reason for the Pro or Serious Hobbyist to choose this camcorder. For this crowd the Panasonic 3 chip camcorders would make a lot more sense and provide options which may surprise, especially considering their reasonable price range.  

Conclusion
As our first full review of 2006, we’re glad to see that the feature-heavy traditions of lower-end MiniDV Panasonics have not been lost. Of course, we always like to see improvements, but the PV-GS35 was a big favorite of ours last year, as was the PV-GS19. There are not many improvements, and Panasonic has definitely tinkered with imaging system. This year’s picture shows a sharper image but more fine grain noise. It’s a judgment to call to say which is better. For my money, at this price, I’m willing to accept some noise for the sharper overall image. We’re anxious to see if the upper-end Panasonic MiniDV cams have undergone the same changes.

The PV-GS39 ($349) is a great intro cam, and one you can grow into. The automatic controls are just good enough to get beginners to the point where they’re ready to start taking charge of image quality. At that point, a wealth of controls open up: iris, gain, white balance, and shutter speed are great ways to learn about exposure and quality control. More advanced user might be better off looking at the 3 CCD Panasonics, which we promise to review in very soon.






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