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Panasonic PV-GS500 First Impressions Camcorder Reviewby Guy BrunerPublished on Jan 6, 2006 4:00 PM 
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Handling
Because the camcorders were attached to display mounts, it was difficult to determine how the GS500 (Review, Specs, $1040) would really feel in the hand. However, it is very similar to the GS250 (Review, Specs, $1299.99) in size and weight. So, it should handle similarly. I found the GS500 to be comfortable to hold. Users with small hands will like this size. The next models down GS300 (Review, Specs, $469.99) and GS180 (Review, Specs, $448.25) (Review, Specs, ) are even smaller and will definitely appeal to those users who are seeking a sub-compact camcorder.
When the GS500 is cradled in the right hand, the zoom slider and photoshot button are directly under the index finger where they should be. The right thumb can easily access the joystick control for setting functions like fade and MagicPix. The record/pause button is right next to the joystick control and is also easily accessible with the right thumb.
Manual focus adjust is accomplished by using the left hand to rotate the focus ring while cradling the GS500 in the right hand. Because the microphone is placed directly below the focus ring, users will have to exercise caution when rotating the focus ring to ensure hand noise is not picked up by the microphone.
LCD/Viewfinder
The color LCD on the PV-GS500 (Review, Specs, $1040), at 2.7 inches, is smaller than the GS400 (Review, Specs, $1099)'s 3.5-inch screen but now displays widescreen video in the correct 16:9 aspect ratio. Normal aspect ratio video (4:3) is pillar boxed (vertical black bars on either side) when displayed. The LCD display offers the user a visual indication of which aspect ratio the camcorder is shooting in because it mirrors the aspect ratio. If the camcorder is in 4:3 mode, the display is also. In widescreen mode, the display is widescreen. This is a nice bit of ergonomic engineering that helps users keep track of their shooting modes.
Panasonic has always provided a lot of information on its screens and the GS500 continues that tradition. The degree of information displayed is selectable in the menus. The EVF is also in color and functions similarly to the EVF on the GS400. The EVF eyepiece may be withdrawn to allow positioning the eye away from the battery that protrudes from the back of the camcorder. It also tilts upward about 60 degrees to provide further flexibility for shooting those awkward upward angles or for shooting while cradling the camcorder at chin level.