Panasonic PV-GS65 Camcorder Review

by Matt Culler
Published on Feb 8, 2005 11:00 AM

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


Audio (6.5)
Audio on the PV-GS65 (Review, Specs, $899) can be captured in either 12 or 16 bits. These options can be set within the camcorder’s menu system. Audio Dubbing is available via the remote for cool voice-overs and such. The camcorder does feature an external microphone port on its right side, and an A/V output port which doubles as a headphone output. However, the accessory shoe on the camcorder’s top is cold, and cannot feed off of the power of the camcorder’s battery.

VCR Mode (6.5)
The PV-GS65 offers playback modes in both its camcorder and digital camera modes. These modes are accessed using the mode dial. Playback is operated on the camcorder using the joystick to control options and the zoom toggle to control volume. With controls like this, on-camcorder playback is easy and operable using one hand. Slow-motion/frame-by-frame playback is available with the camcorder’s remote. Television playback is available through use of either the camcorder’s A/V output port or S-Video port. Thumbnail playback of card captured still images is available in digital camera playback mode, and the card can be formatted and edited on the camcorder. The camcorder can be connected to a computer for editing or viewing using the DV port or the USB port.

Ports (9.5)

The PV-GS65 includes a USB, microphone, and A/V/headphone output port on the right side, with a DV port underneath the LCD screen and an S-Video port under the mode dial. All are conveniently located. It is nice not to have the mic jack on the front of the camcorder, and indeed, it is nice to have a microphone jack at all, as most camcorders in this price range do not include such an option.



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