Panasonic PV-GS500 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Guy Bruner
Published on Jan 6, 2006 4:00 PM

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


Video Performance
We were not able to do extensive analysis of the GS500 at CES. A more thorough assessment of the technical features will be conducted when we can get a unit to run through our standardized tests. However, because of identical imager specs there is little to indicate that the GS500 would not perform as well as its predecessor, which is to say very, very well. Video in the widescreen mode is now a pleasure to watch on the new 2.7 inch widescreen format LCD.  The GS500 widens its field of view in widescreen mode just like the GS400.  This differentiates widescreen mode on the GS500 from the next 3 CCD model down, the GS300, which crops and zooms its widescreen image.

Low Light Performance
Although we could not carefully measure the low light sensitivity of the GS500, there is no reason for it to differ from the GS400’s. The minimum light sensitivity of the GS400 is 12 lux. Panasonic lists a low light sensitivity of 0 lux for the GS500 in MagicPix mode; however, this is with supplemental light from the LCD screen. In addition, MagicPix slows shutter speed considerably which creates a frame rate of about 8 frames per second. As a result, any motion in the scene is severely blurred in MagicPix mode.







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