Panasonic VDR-D300 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by Nick Hyacinthe
Published on Jan 6, 2006 7:00 PM

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


Handling
This camcorder can be handled with relative comfort. The DVD mechanism protrusion at the top of the camcorder provides the user with a firm and secure grip. This model is bigger than most DVD camcorders. While the size limits the camcorder’s portability, its evenly distributed weight provides more stability. The buttons are situated directly underneath the user’s thumbs and index finger for easy access. The most important handling feature is the joystick at the back of the camcorder. This allows users to access and adjust nearly all control functions with one’s thumb. The joystick can be cumbersome, but it is a far better navigational option than the touch screen menu, because the camcorder can be operated with one hand and the user doesn’t have to fumble around just to access the functions.

A small but priceless addition to this year’s menu is the Info icon that will provide the user with a brief description of what each icon represents. This helps the users that are new to Panasonic understand and better utilize the menu system.

LCD/Viewfinder
This camcorder has a 2.7” swiveling LCD and color viewfinder. The wider LCD makes recording 16:9 images more convenient by allowing the user to see the full spectrum of what is being captured. The LCD solarizes terribly when viewed at an angle, hindering the user from effectively shooting at varied angles and positions. In the DVD market, only Sonys provide hybrid LCDs that can perform adequately at all angles.

The Color Viewfinder extends about an inch towards the user but does swivel up. This lack of mobility limits one from taking low angle shots using the viewfinder, but it’s good to see that they have not dropped them entirely. Sometimes only a viewfinder will do the job.







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