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


The Front
The 10x Leica lens protrudes from the front of the camcorder, eclipsing the stereo microphone and port cover that lay beneath it. The lens is adorned in metallic silver, with ridges on the side resembling a focus ring. Unfortunately Panasonic chose décor over function, as few things irk us more than the false tease of a focus ring. Hanging on the edge of the camcorder is the built-in flash to the right of the lens.

The Right
The DVD mechanism occupies all of the real estate on the right side of the VDR-D300. The mode dial bulges out of the rear onto the DVD mechanism. The DVD mechanism opens by sliding a small gray switch above the protruding mode dial.

The Back
This model’s rear has inherited the familiar design from previous Panasonic DVD camcorders. The battery slot governs the back of the camcorder, with a color viewfinder above it. The familiar record button and mode dial, with the joystick protruding from its center, are to the right of the battery slot. The Mode dial bulges out of the camcorder’s side. A gray Delete button and a Silver On/Off switch rest above the mode dial, while a small Menu button lies beneath it.

The Left
The entire left side of camcorder is governed by the 2.7” swiveling LCD. The Auto/Manual and Manual Focus switches rests underneath the wide LCD. Audio can be monitored with a small speaker that also dwells within the LCD cavity.

The Top
The top of the VDR-D300 is fairly barren. Towards the front, the bulging Leica lens is fused with the protruding DVD mechanism. The protruding mechanism provides the user with a firm grip. The cold accessory shoe sits atop the lens barrel. A silver zoom toggle and petite photo button are to the right of the cold accessory shoe.








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