CES 2012 is seeing a flood of new and updated products including Canon’s new line of VIXIA HD camcorders.  The new line includes three compact VIXIA HF M-series models, the HF M52, HF M50 and HF M500 as well as three entry-level VIXIA HF R-series, the HF R32, HF R30 and HF R300, which Canon says improvements to functions and features, like a newly designed HD CMOS Pro image sensor, have been made.  To help get your social media fix in, WiFi connectivity and DLNA compatibility has been stuffed in.

Video capture in MP4 is now an option and with the WiFi connectivity videos can be directly unloaded to YouTube and Facebook or mobile devices in a snap.

Also unveiled was Canon’s new PowerShot G1 X and PowerShot ELPH Digital Cameras.

Press Release

January 09, 2012 09:00 AM Eastern Time

2012 Canon VIXIA Camcorders Bring New Social Sharing Capabilities and Strong Low-Light Performance

Features Include a Newly Designed HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor to Improve Resolution, Enhance Low-Light Performance and Expand Dynamic Range

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced a new line of six VIXIA High Definition flash memory camcorders – three compact VIXIA HF M-series models and three entry-level VIXIA HF R-series models – for 2012. Focusing on the social network experience, Canon has enhanced select models with Wi-Fi connectivity, the option to capture videos in MP4 or AVCHD file format and full Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) compatibility, unleashing on-the-spot creative video sharing and still-image uploads. The MP4 file format option helps make content easier to share across mobile devices and to social networks online, while DLNA connectivity allows wireless transmission of videos to DLNA-compatible HDTVs. Encouraging users to shoot and share, the Canon VIXIA HF M52*, VIXIA HF M50*, VIXIA HF R32* and VIXIA HF R30* models have the ability to upload videos directly to social media sites such as YouTube and Facebook over a Wi-Fi network, or to mobile devices such as an iPhone or iPad1 utilizing a free Movie Uploader app.

“Imaging devices are a key component of the interactive social experience, therefore, they must connect”

“Imaging devices are a key component of the interactive social experience, therefore, they must connect,” said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Imaging Technologies and Communications Group, Canon U.S.A. “We are excited to include Wi-Fi connectivity and DLNA technology, among other new features, in our new VIXIA models that will allow consumers to easily share high-quality videos with friends and families.

Canon has included a range of features and functions to help users capture stunning video to share including improved low-light image capture, a new Intelligent Image Stabilization (IS) system and the ability to capture MP4 video recordings. Canon has included dual codec recording, giving users the option to record in AVCHD, for the highest quality viewing on an HDTV, or in MP4 format, for easy sharing with mobile devices or social networks. The new 2012 VIXIA models feature a 20 percent improvement in low-light performance compared to previous models as a result of enhancements made to Canon’s HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor. The sensor boasts a minimum illumination rating of 1.2 lux, Canon’s lowest lux rating to date in a consumer HD camcorder.2 Another enhancement to select models in Canon’s 2012 VIXIA lineup is the ability to export content directly to an external hard-disc drive through an optional USB adapter3 for simple file sharing and archiving without the need of a computer.

Advanced Technologies and Features:

Share and view videos via Wi-Fi: Select models of the VIXIA HF M- and R-series camcorders include the ability to share, view and store videos wirelessly, including the ability to upload videos directly to YouTube and Facebook:

Share: When connected to a Wi-Fi network, videos can be uploaded directly to YouTube or Facebook. When on the go, use an iPhone or iPad and free Movie Uploader app to connect a VIXIA camcorder to a cellular network to enable video uploads.

Watch and Store: Select 2012 VIXIA camcorders allow users to wirelessly transmit videos to a PC for storage, an iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch through a free Movie Uploader app enabling quick storage on these mobile devices, or on-the-spot playback for friends and family. Users can also enjoy wirelessly viewing on a DLNA-compatible HDTV or through other DLNA-compatible devices such a game console.

Audio Scene Select: The Canon VIXIA HF M-series is equipped with a new Audio Scene Select menu that streamlines the selection of custom audio selection. Users select the environment that is being captured – a musical performance, a speech, a forest – and the camcorder will automatically adjust settings, including microphone directionality, frequency response, wind screen, volume level and microphone attenuator. While users will still be given the option to make these adjustments manually, the new audio settings menu makes the optimization of the audio levels quick and easy for casual users.

Export to External Hard Drive: Consumers are starting to use external storage devices more and more to supplement limited amounts of memory on laptops. Select models of Canon VIXIA camcorders allow a direct transfer of video content from the camcorder to an external storage device, a process which historically required a computer as a conduit. Data transfers from the VIXIA camcorder to an external hard drive are accomplished through an optional USB adapter.

Intelligent IS System: Canon has enhanced its Image Stabilization (IS) system, which automatically detects the needs of the situation being captured. The new Intelligent IS system will change intuitively through one of four IS modes – Dynamic, Powered, Macro and Tripod – so that the user has fewer things to worry about while shooting video. When the record button is pressed and the subject is walking, the Intelligent IS system will employ Dynamic stabilization to help reduce camera shake automatically. However, if the subject is detected to be very close to the camcorder, Macro (or Hybrid) stabilization will activate to counter shift camera shake; if the subject is far from the camcorder at extreme telephoto distances, Powered IS will activate to help counter slow, large-scale camcorder shake.

Popular VIXIA Features:

The 2012 VIXIA lineup retains many popular features that make it easy to record outstanding HD video, such as Canon’s Smart AUTO mode that intelligently detects and analyzes brightness, color, distance and movement to automatically select the best of 38 available pre-set setting selections for the scene being recorded. Canon’s Touch & Track feature allows users to select any subject on the Touch Panel LCD screen with their finger, which the camcorder will then track to ensure sharp focus and proper exposure. The camcorders also include built-in Cinema-Look Filters that give the look of a variety of cinematic styles by compensating for the color, gamma and other aspects of the image’s quality. Select 2012 VIXIA models have Relay Recording for seamless uninterrupted video recording from one memory source to the next. When the primary recording media is full, the camcorder continues to record the scene by switching to the next memory source, so that users won’t miss a moment of action.

As an integrated part of Canon’s Intelligent IS, the Powered IS feature provides a higher level of compensation for subtle hand movement at the telephoto end of the zoom range. In addition, all VIXIA camcorders with built-in memory feature HD-to-SD Downconversion, which enables users to convert recorded high-definition video to standard-definition files while preserving the original HD footage. These down-converted files make it even more convenient to share video online or create a DVD. Each new model is also compatible with Eye-Fi SD Memory Cards, allowing for wireless uploading of video content to a computer, social networking site or video sharing website.

VIXIA HF M-series

The Canon VIXIA HF M52*, VIXIA HF M50* and VIXIA HF M500* Flash Memory camcorders offer consumers stunning HD video in an ultra-sleek, compact and lightweight body, now 15 percent smaller when compared to 2011 M-Series models. Recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 video, the VIXIA HF M-series features a Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens and Canon’s enhanced HD CMOS Pro Image Sensor for high video resolution, outstanding low-light performance and a wide dynamic range.

All three models include Canon’s newly designed Flat Touch Panel 3.0-inch LCD screen for a large display and an improved menu system and button layout, and now also record in MP4 file format to make content easier to share across mobile devices and online social networks. The VIXIA HF M52 and VIXIA HF M50 incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and feature HD-to-SD Downconversion. They also include Wi-Fi connectivity, which enables the ability to upload videos wirelessly to YouTube and Facebook through use of an iPad or iPhone app. The models also include DLNA connectivity which enables wireless access to a DLNA-compatible device. The VIXIA HF M500 records directly to a SDXC-compatible card slot. The new VIXIA HF M-series is also compatible with the new Canon WP-V4 Waterproof Case, great for vacations, underwater videography, or any wet conditions. The VIXIA HF M52, VIXIA HF M50 and VIXIA HF M500 Flash Memory camcorders are scheduled to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $749.99, $649.99 and $549.99, respectively.

VIXIA HF R-series

The Canon VIXIA HF R32*, VIXIA HF R30* and VIXIA HF R300* Flash Memory camcorders offer the ideal combination of price and performance for the budget-conscious consumer who doesn’t want to sacrifice on features such as Full HD 1920 x 1080 video. All three models, which are 21 percent smaller when compared with the R-series models from 2011, include a Genuine Canon HD Video Lens with 51x Advanced Zoom, 3.28-megapixel Canon Full HD CMOS Image Sensor, a 3.0-inch full-flat Touch Panel LCD screen, Touch Decoration, Smart AUTO and Advanced Video Snapshot. New for the 2012 R-series lineup, all three models feature Canon’s Intelligent IS with Optical Image Stabilization allowing the camcorders to automatically switch between stabilization modes for optimal image quality while recording. All three models feature MP4 file format recording while both the VIXIA HF R32 and VIXIA HF R30 include Canon’s Relay Recording, HD-to-SD Downconversion and Wi-Fi uploading capabilities. The VIXIA HF R32 and VIXIA HF R30 models incorporate 32GB and 8GB of internal flash memory, respectively, and the VIXIA HF R300 records directly to a SDXC-compatible memory card slot. The VIXIA HF R32, VIXIA HF R30 and VIXIA HF R300 Flash Memory camcorders are expected to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $549.99, $449.99 and $349.99, respectively.

New Optional Camcorder Accessories

The new Canon WP-V4 Waterproof Case helps protect any of the 2012 VIXIA HF M-series camcorders in depths of water up to 130 feet, allowing users to capture exciting HD footage even underwater. This compact and lightweight housing seals the camcorder, allowing easy on-camera operation and control for all water sports activities such as scuba diving and whitewater rafting. The Canon WP-V4 Waterproof Case is expected to be available in March for an estimated retail price of $599.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With more than $45 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks fourth overall in patent holdings in the U.S. in 2010†, and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2011. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

* This device has not been authorized as required by the rules of the Federal Communications Commission. This device is not, and may not be offered for sale or lease, or sold or leased, until authorization is obtained.

† Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Availability, prices, and specifications of all products are subject to change without notice. Actual prices are set by individual dealers and may vary.

1 Users can transmit wirelessly MP4, AVCHD and MPEG2 files to Facebook and YouTube via an iPad or iPhone on a wireless network. When connected to a wireless network such as one in a home or internet hotspot, users can upload AVCHD and MPEG2 files to Facebook and YouTube via a personal computer, or MP4 files via Wi-Fi connection directly to Facebook, YouTube, Canon Image Gateway, Twitter or via email. Wi-Fi connectivity is available on the Canon VIXIA HF M52, VIXIA HF M50, VIXIA HF R32 and VIXIA HF R30 camcorders.

2 At 1/30 second in slow shutter mode

3 Optional UA-100 USB adapter sold separately. The function is available on the Canon VIXIA HF M52, VIXIA HF M50, VIXIA HF R32 and VIXIA HF R30 devices.

Today only Amazon is offering the GoPro Helmet Hero as a “Gold Box Deal” while supplies last for the low price of $169.00.  Check out Tech Tilt’s review roundup.

Full HD Video, 3 Flavors – The HD Helmet HERO offers three different HD resolutions, giving you three filming modes to capture the best angles for any given activity: 1080p (127º angle @ 30 fps, 16:9 aspect ratio), 960p (170º angle @ 30 fps, 4:3 aspect ratio), and 720p (170º angle @ 30 OR 60 fps, 16:9 aspect ratio).

5MP Photos, Automatically – Shoot hands-free, 5 megapixel photos automatically at 2 / 5 / 10 / 30 / and 60 second intervals until the batteries die or the SD card is full (2.5 hours). Or set it to single shot, triple shot, or self timer for more traditional photo taking.

Audio Excellence – We’ve invested more in the HD HERO camera’s sound system than most companies spend on their entire camera development. You’ll only be hearing the sounds of your sport, not the howl of the wind. How? Obsessive audio engineering and an understanding that good sound is as important as good video.

Shockproof & Waterproof to 180′ (60m) – Proven in heavy surf from Hawaii to Tahiti, Southern Mexico to Northern California, HD HERO cameras can handle it thanks their highly engineered polycarbonate exoskeletal housing. Ready for action ranging from scuba diving to dirt track racing, and tough enough to take a spin across the asphalt, GoPros are built to take a beating & keep filming. Replacement lens kits & housings are available, so there’s little worry while going for glory – even while diving with sharks.

Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery, Built-in Warmer – The rechargeable 1100mAh lithium-ion battery (included) lasts for 2.5 hours of constant recording. It can be recharged to 80% capacity in just 2 hours when plugged into a computer’s USB port, or in 1 hour when plugged into a USB compatible wall or car charger. Camera can also be used while charging, and features an integrated battery heating system for keeping your battery warm in winter activities.

Shoot 8+ hrs of HD Video with 32GB SD Card – Media saved to SD card, up to 32GB capacity (SDHC). Average recording times using a 32GB card: 1080p @ 30fps = 4h 21m, 960p @ 30fps = 5h 26m, 720p @ 60fps = 4h 21m, 720p @ 30fps = 8h 09m, WVGA @ 60fps = 8h 09m.

Mac users, for a short time B&H has the Western Digital 1TB My Book Studio external hard drive for a $99.95 deal and free shipping.  Western Digital ships this My Book Studio HFS+ Formatted for Mac, is Time Machine compatible and has an aluminum enclosure.  Connection comes in the form of Firewire 800 or USB 2.0 (cables included) and an onboard LCD helps keep tabs on what stored and how much space has been used.  256-bit hardware-based encryption keeps things safe from intruders.

More deals after the jump.

Some other deals worth mentioning are the SanDisk 16GB Extreme Pro SDHC UHS-I memory card,  Nikon 1 V1 mirrorless digital camera (available for pre-order) and the Fujifilm FinePix F600EXR digital camera with prices $49.95, $1,149.95 and $349.95 respectively.

The GoPro HD HERO is undoubtedly the leader when it comes to point-of-view video and the great thing about the GoPro video cameras is that they are affordable and easy to use.

GoPro has been around for a few years now and has set the bar high for perspective videography.  So high in fact big time production companies are using these little cameras to get unique shots and yes they can handle the abuse avid sports junkies put them through.  Just watch what Cameron Glendenning, Director of Photography, Deadliest Catch, has to say about shooting with the GoPro HD HERO.

GoPro is obviously the leader in self produced outdoor and extreme sports arena, but for good reason.  The video quality is great and the equipment is tough-as-nails.  Only limited by the imagination, GoPro video cameras work just about anywhere.  From the water to the sky and everywhere in between.

Operation is generally simple involving installing a SD video card, start recording and be a hero. Once the footage has been acquired editing can easily be done with iMovie or Windows Movie Maker. The 170 degree wide angle lens gives awesome perspective and even includes the shooter in the shot, giving those cool, look-at-me videos we’ve all come to love from GoPro.

GoPro’s clear, impact resistant, waterproof case makes all the extreme video possible, protecting the small, light weight, quality camera inside.  GoPro offers a good assortment of kits and accessories to capture whatever extreme video desired from scuba diving to sky diving and everything in between.

GoPro has a wide range of accessories and replacement parts, some of which are listed at the bottom of this post.  There’s even a 3D kit available.

Reviews

Steves Digicams

The GoPro HD HERO is where it’s at…

Active Gear Review

I can’t seem to find any cons with the GoPro HD HERO 960… I highly suggested giving this camera a try!

Helmet Cam Review

…this camera can hold up to the pressure and the beating…

Mountain Weekly News

…get one turn it on and make a movie, you’ll thank me later.

Gizmodo

Engadget

GoPro Kits

• HERO 960 from B&H / from Amazon
• HERO Naked from B&H / from Amazon
• Helmet HERO from B&H / from Amazon
• Motorsports HERO from B&H / from Amazon
• Surf HERO from B&H / from Amazon

GoPro Accessories

• SD Video Card (Class 4 or higher) from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Tripod Mount from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro HD Wrist Housing from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Head Strap Mount from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Chest Mount Harness from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Suction Cup Mount from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Grab Bag of Mounts from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Surf HERO Expansion Kit from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Roll Bar Mount from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Ride HERO from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Grab Bag of Extra HERO Parts from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Deluxe Accessory Kit from Amazon
• GoPro Camera HD HERO Li-ion Battery from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro LCD BacPac from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Quick Release HD Housing from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro Lens Replacement Kit from B&H / from Amazon
• GoPro 3D HERO System Waterproof Housing & 3D Synchronization System from B&H / from Amazon

Team Coco has the latest…

Ever wish you could zoom just a little closer to to the subject you are shooting.  Well Sony is delivering with a new ultra-zoom Handycam 67x zoom lens.  Of the 67x zoom, 57x is all optical zoom so clarity is not being lost for most of the zoom range.  With this new line of ultra-zoom cameras Sony is offering 2 models, the DCR-SR21E and DCR-SX21E.

The new-ultra zoom line is standard definition only, but that can be an advantage if you are limited on  video storage or have editing software that can’t hand HD video.  Both cameras are very similar with plenty of features with the big difference being storage.  The SR21E has a large onboard 80GB HDD and the XR21E carries a memory card slot and uses a Sony Memory Stick or SD card for storage.  Sony’s new external hard drive, the HD-PG5 serires offers easy PC-free backup.  Look for the ultra-zoom Handycam in September.  Find out more in the press release after the jump.

Press Release

Get even closer to amazing videos with new ultra-zoom Handycam® SX21E and SR21E by Sony

• Light, easy to use camcorders with 67x Extended Zoom
• Crisp, clear Standard Definition video shooting on optional memory card (DCR-SX21E) or HDD (DCR-SR21E)
• Powerful 57x Optical Zoom with 67x Extended Zoom
• Intelligent AUTO for great results without effort
• 6.7cm (2.7”) Clear Photo LCD
• SteadyShot, Face Detection and video light
• On-board PMB Portable software for easy web uploads
• Easy, PC-free backups with new HD-PG5UB hard disk drive from Sony

Handycam® SR21E Handycam® SX21E

Handycam® DCR-SR21E Handycam® DCR-SX21E

Two great value Standard Definition Handycam® camcorder models from Sony pull distant objects closer than ever with an ultra-powerful 67x Extended Zoom range.

Light, compact and easy to use, new Handycam® DCR-SX21E shoots crisp, clear video and stereo sound onto a Memory Stick™ or SD card (not supplied). Handycam® DCR-SR21E offers extra-generous record times, storing up to 61 hours of Standard Definition video on its 80GB built-in hard disk drive. With no need to carry spare tapes or discs, there’s plenty of space to capture those summer holidays memories.

Whether you choose memory card or HDD, both Handycam® models are packed with smart features for sharing and enjoying your footage.

The high-power 57x Optical Zoom lens by Sony delivers frame-filling close-ups with superb image quality. And if you want to get closer still, Extended Zoom boosts maximum magnification to an incredible 67x with virtually no visible degradation.

SteadyShot image stabilisation keeps things crisp and clear, reducing the effects of camera shake when you’re shooting handheld. If you’re shooting portraits of friends and family, Face Detection automatically fine-tunes exposure for more natural looking faces.

Even if you’re not sure what settings to use under different shooting conditions, Sony makes it easy to achieve great results. New to entry-level Handycam® models, Intelligent AUTO mode recognizes up to 18 different scene combinations – from portraits and landscapes to night views. Focus, exposure, colour and other settings are adjusted automatically for best results, whatever the situation.

The DCR-SX21E and DCR-SR21E are loaded with thoughtful features to help everyone shoot better-looking videos with ease – and then share the results with family and friends. Menus and settings are adjusted via a joystick next to the flip-out 6.7cm (2.7”) Clear Photo LCD. A conveniently-placed button switches on the built-in LED video light to illuminate indoor scenes or night-time shots. For extra convenience there’s also an Auto mode that switches the video light on when natural light levels are low.

Both models make it easy to share your favourite video clips via the web. Built-in PMB Portable software simplifies uploads to popular sites like YouTube™ from almost any Internet-ready PC.

Direct Copy allows simple, PC-free transfers of video footage direct from Handycam® to an external hard disk drive (available separately). A great partner for the DCR-SX21E/SR21E, the new 500GB HD-PG5UB hard disk drive* from Sony easily connects to your Handycam® for quick, reliable data transfers (USB cable adaptor included). Weighing just 166g and slipping easily into a pocket or travel bag, the compact drive makes it easy to back up precious video footage via Direct Copy while you’re travelling.

See press release on the new HD-PG5UB portable hard disk drive from Sony for more details.

In addition, compatibility with the optional VRD-P1 DVDirect Express simplifies PC-free burning of video footage onto blank DVD discs for storing, sharing and archiving.

The compact, easy to use new Handycam® SX21E and SR21E Standard Definition camcorders from Sony are available from early September 2011.

B&H is offering Free overnight shipping on some great Canon, Panasonic, JVC and Sony camcorders.  Order now and get it by Father’s Day!

Amazon has a deal on the Contour HD camcorder.  For today only buy the Contour HD for $179.00 and free shipping.

Features

• Full HD Recording (1080p) – 1920×1080 pixels – 30fps
• 5 Megapixel Sensor
• Internal Microphone
• Removable Lithium-Ion Battery; records up to 4 hours
• Aluminum and Fiberglass Water Resistant Body

Technical

• Brand Name: Contour
• Model: 1300
• Media Type: Flash card
• Lens Type: Lens
• Video Input: Camcorder
• Optical Sensor Resolution: 5 MP
• Optical Sensor Technology: CMOS
• Audio Input: Microphone
• Microphone Operation Mode: Mono
• Height: 2.1 inches
• Weight: 4.3 Ounces
• Depth: 3.7 inches
• Width: 1.3 inches

The Panasonic HDC-TM90 is a Full HD camcorder that sports touch screen input and a 40x zoom.  The TM90 is capable of shooting 1920 x 1080 footage a full 60p frame rate.  It has 16GB of internal storage, along with an SDXC card slot for additional storage.  The TM90 also accepts Panasonic’s VW-CLT1 3D conversion lens for stereoscopic 3D video capture.

Panasonic TM90 Key Features

• 1920 x 1080/60p video capture
• 40x zoom
• 3-inch touchscreen LCD
• SDXC compatibility
• 3D video capture possible (w/ additional lens)

Panasonic TM90 Features and Functionality

The TM90 is a very user-friendly camera.  It’s also very compact.  It cradles nicely in the palm of your hand.

The image stabilization works excellent on the TM90.  I was constantly surprised at just how stable the images were with the TM90.  The one thing you have to watch out for though is to turn off the image stabilization if you are doing pans and tilts on a tripod.  This is true with most camcorders though.  When you are panning and tilting (even on a smooth fluid head) the image stabilization function in the camera is still trying to compensate for the camera movement.  As a result, if you want to ramp down the pan to a full stop and the end, the TM90′s image stabilization will sort-of kick back the image at the end of your movement, which defeats your efforts at creating a smooth pan.  That’s not a problem with the camera, just something to be aware of from a user-interface perspective.  With handheld movements, however, the TM90 is golden and really makes sloppy camera work look pretty good.

I like the fact that I can plug in an external mic onto the TM90 – even though the internal mic works pretty well.  It also has a built-in mic zoom feature which helps you get better concentration on distant subjects.  Most of the time when I was using the TM90 though, I used it with the Rode VideoMic Pro, which is an excellent companion to this camera.  The TM90 comes with an shoe mount extender which slides into the back of the camera and gives you plenty of lead room for on-camera accessories like shotgun mics and lights.  Even with longer shotgun mics, you won’t have to worry about the tip extending into the top of the frame at wider angles.

Speaking of wide angles, the TM90 goes pretty wide for a consumer camcorder – out to 28mm equivalent.  On the long end, it reaches to a 35mm film equivalent of an outrageous 729mm.  That zoom range should cover just about everyone’s needs.

The touchscreen on the TM90 works very well.  If found the interface easier to operate that the Canon M40, which I’m in the process of reviewing now.  The touch selection just works better.  With the Canon M40, I had trouble getting the menu to properly scroll on several occasions.  I encountered no such input problems with the TM90 and have to hand it to Panasonic for making it all pretty intuitive.  Prosumers may be a little frustrated by the amount of controls that you have to go menu diving for, but most of the TM90′s buyers are looking for something to point and shoot video and will be satisfied with jumping in the menu for the occasional specific setting adjustment.

Panasonic TM90 Sample Footage

Below is a video that I shot in Rancagua, Chile with the TM90 and with the Rode VideoMic Pro plugged directly into it.  All shots except for a couple of the cutaways at the beginning were handheld.  Unfortunately, the encoding out of Premiere Pro and then through Vimeo doesn’t do the video quality justice.

Panasonic TM90 Accessories

Panasonic VW-VBK360 Li-Ion Battery – The TM90 includes a VBK180 rechargeable Li-Ion battery; however, it can accept the higher-capacity VBK360 battery for extended use.  If you want to capture a whole lot of footage in-between charges, you can add this battery to your kit for much longer recording times.

Memory Cards – Panasonic recommends using a Class 4 or faster SD card with the TM90 in order to record uninterrupted footage at the highest quality.  Really, this isn’t too hard to find.  Because of the high-quality footage though, the TM90 chews through a lot of memory, which is why I would recommend going with a 16GB or 32GB SD card to go along with the camera.  Even if you are recording to the built-in storage, you want a backup in case you fill that up.  And 16GB only stores 1 hour and 20 minutes of the highest quality footage from the TM90.  I would recommend picking up a SanDisk Ultra 16GB or 32GB card if you don’t have one already.

Rode VideoMic Pro – The on-camera mic works fine; however, if you want to get the best audio you can and still keep your overall package small and light, as noted above, the Rode VideoMic Pro is an excellent choice to go with this camcorder.

Varizoom VZ-TK75A Tripod – While a tripod isn’t necessarily a must-have for everyone interested in the TM90, if you plan on being a little more serious than just recording the occasional family event, then this is a highly capable and relatively affordable tripod.  It has a fluid head for very smooth pans and tilts.  You can read my full review of this tripod over on Photography Bay: Varizoom VZ-TK75A Tripod Review.

Conclusion

The TM90 is a very powerful little camcorder that’s well worth the humble asking price of $600 (at the time of this review it’s available for $539 thanks to instant rebates).  It’s a camera that I would recommend to anyone looking for a high-quality HD camcorder that’s easy to use.

The Panasonic TM90 is available from Tech Tilt’s trusted retail partner, B&H Photo, at the following link:

Panasonic TM90 at B&H Photo/Video

By making your gear purchases at B&H Photo through these links, you are helping Tech Tilt to continue bring quality camera tests, news and reviews. Thanks for your continued support.

Samsung has raised the curtain on its new compact camcorder, the W200.  It’s a shock and waterproof design in a Flip-like form factor.

The W200 shoots full 1080p video at 30p and stores footage to a Micro SD/SDHC card.  The image sensor is a 5MP backside illuminate CMOS sensor that also captures still images.

The W200 has a bright f/2.2 lens for better low light performance, although there is no optical zoom.  It has a built-in USB connector for easily importing footage.  Additionally, you get a built-in HDMI port in case you can’t quite wait to export the footage off of the camera to watch it.

The display is a pretty typical 2.3-inch 230K-dot resolution LCD panel.  The W200 offers a couple of Smart Filters for adding instant effects to your video – vignetting and fisheye, both of which should be pretty self-explanatory.

The Samsung W200 should be available in May 2011 at an initial retail price of $159. Check availability on B&H Photo and Amazon.com.