Panasonic PV-GS85 Camcorder Review

by David Kender
Published on Dec 4, 2007 10:31 AM

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


Audio (3.0)
For an second-tier camcorder, the PV-GS85 offers the most in Audio compared to its competitors. Bear in mind that this is not saying much—no lower model features Mic or Headphone jacks anymore (aside from the Canon ZR800, which touts a Mic jack). The PV-GS85’s built-in stereo microphone features a Wind Cut setting, audio record quality setting, and zoom capability. Shooters can record in 12bit (32 kHz/4 channel) or 16bit (48 kHz/2 channel) modes. Zoom functionality is a great thing to have, especially with a cheap built-in microphone. It operated in tandem with the zoom, and emphasizes the sound coming from the front of the camcorder rather than the sides and rear.

Playback (3.25)
MiniDV camcorders are the most laborious when it comes to playing back footage—the shooter is transported back to the days of analog tape, a black sheep in today’s video world. While DVD, HDD, and Solid State formats offer instant playback via chapters and clips, the PV-GS85 needs to be rewound and fast-forwarded, just like your dusty old 1978 Zenith VCR. In order to access, Playback mode, shift the mode dial to Video Playback. That classic blue screen will appear. You’ll notice that the joystick now doubles as the playback controls: Up is Play/Pause, Down is Stop, Left is Rewind, and Right is Fast-Forward. The Zoom toggle controls the volume level. This is as easy as it gets, folks. In Video Playback mode, the menu consists of the following options:

Main Menu (Video Playback Mode)
Basic Date/Time
Advanced Rec Speed, Rec Standby, Pict. Quality, Repeat Play
Setup 12bit Audio, Audio Out, Display, LCD Set, EVF Set, Power Save, TV Aspect
Language English, Francais, Espanol

Connectivity (6.0)
The PV-GS85 is outfitted with a standard array of ports, most of which are placed within an architecturally flawed location—the battery chamber. In here, you’ll find the DC input, USB terminal, and FireWire terminal. If you’re filming continuously and need to plug in the external power supply, your shot is interrupted by having to remove the battery in order to get to the DC input. In addition, what happens if you’re out in the field and need to import footage quickly in an area devoid of outlets? You can’t rely on the battery to utilize the FireWire terminal, since they both occupy the same territory. The LCD cavity is a barren wasteland; would it have been too much of a cosmetic sacrifice to locate all connectivity there? The AV jack is the only well-placed port on the PV-GS85, located on the right side toward the lens end, sheltered by a thin plastic shield.


The cold accessory shoe above the viewfinder

The PV-GS85 also includes a cold accessory shoe, mounted to the top of the camcorder. With no Mic or Headphone jacks, the cold accessory shoe will suit those looking to mount a battery powered video light, and that’s about it. The PV-GS-85’s SD card slot is located on the bottom of the camcorder, housed by a hinged plastic door. If you plan on snapping stills while the camcorder is mounted to a tripod, prepare yourself for quite a headache, especially if you are shooting with a small capacity card. Mounting and remounting a camcorder to a tripod is not one of the most favored activities for the average shooter.

 

The DC power, USB, and FireWire (DV) ports, all in the battery cavity

  

The more sensibly placed AV port
on the right side

 

  

 

 



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