Panasonic has introduced their first 3D projector, the PT-AE7000U and judging from an impressive list of specs and initial reports, 3D home theater buffs will soon have, possibly, the most economical choice in the 3D projector pool.

Panasonic claims the AE7000U to be the world’s first 1080p 3D projector based on transmissive LCD panels driven at 480Hz (in 3D mode, each eye is shown 240Hz) using active-shutter glasses with an integrated IR transmitter.  According to reports a higher driving frequency contributes to a significant reduction in crosstalk, a design goal for the AE7000U. Other goals were to increase the brightness and contrast using a higher-power, red-rich lamp; new LCD panels with greater aperture ratio and improved dynamic iris. The proof is in the pudding as they say with 2,000 lumens and a 300,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio.  Another impressive tid-bit is the 2x zoom can cast a 120-inch diagonal image from as close as 3.6 meters (about 11 feet) to 7 meters (24 feet) from the screen.

Among the 3D features is a newly developed dual-core video processor that can be adjusted independently for the left and right images in a split-screen mode, along with the ability to adjust the depth of the 3D image, allowing viewing comfort for different screen size.  A real-time 2D to 3D converter with selectable effect modes also keeps things interesting on plain old “flat” movies.

A cool feature brought back from previous models s the Intelligent Lens Memory that lets you store zoom and focus settings for 16:9 and 2.35:1 without the need for an anamorphic lens, and the projector can automatically select the right setting depending on the input signal.  Additionally, SmoothScreen reduces the appearance of boundaries between pixels for sharper images.

The AE7000U is also very “green,” according to Panasonic, with intelligent power management system that reduces the lamp power to the exact required level of brightness depending on the content in display.  More than 3 billion different image patterns are said to be analyzed to find the most efficient power output.

The PT-AE7000U is scheduled for a September release at a list price of $3,499.

Press Release

LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Panasonic Solutions Company, provider of collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for government and commercial enterprises, today announced the PT-AE7000U, its first Full HD 3D home theater projector with 1080p (1,920 x 1,080 pixel) resolution. The PT-AE7000U is also the world’s first*1 3D projector to use transparent LCD panels driven at 480Hz that, combined with Panasonic’s original Overdrive Technology, realize significantly low crosstalk. Thanks to the newly-developed optical engine, which produces an incredible 300,000:1 contrast ratio and 2,000 lumens of brightness, the PT-AE7000U delivers both stunning 2D images and a comfortable and immersive 3D viewing experience at home.

“When we create our projectors, our goal is to produce images that mirror movie directors’ artistic vision and intent”

“When we create our projectors, our goal is to produce images that mirror movie directors’ artistic vision and intent,” said Art Rankin, director of Projectors and Higher Education Sector at Panasonic Solutions Company. “The PT-AE7000U’s key 3D projection technologies were developed in collaboration with Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory engineers who are heavily engaged in the authoring and mastering of 3D Blu-ray Discs™. They have taken key roles in establishing the industry standards for 3D and bringing the experience from large screens to homes. Through this joint effort, the PT-AE7000U has been redesigned from the ground up to achieve higher basic 2D performance and is packed with unique 3D features to deliver studio-grade 3D content to the consumer.”

The optical system of the PT-AE7000U features a new 200-Watt Red-Rich Lamp and new LCD panels with larger aperture ratio for increased red luminance and brightness output. The combination of fully-optimized Pure Contrast Plates, Pure Color Filter Pro and Dynamic Iris Pro has resulted in a 300,000:1 contrast ratio and 2,000 lumens of brightness. This produces brighter images with excellent coloring and deep blacks with fine shadow details.

The PT-AE7000U uses frame sequential technology for 3D image projection. The Overdrive Technology has been carefully tuned together with the 480Hz LCD Panel that greatly reduces 3D crosstalk, or double images, for comfortable 3D content viewing. The projector is also equipped with a newly-developed dual-core processing engine so that the projector can process 3D signals with all of the benefits of 2D image enhancements. Frame Creation, Detail Clarity Processor and other innovative image processing technologies are optimized for 3D images in the same manner as for 2D images. They bring out fine details and three dimensionality for natural, life-like visuals with excellent clarity, and create sharp, clear images of fast-moving scenes in sports and action movies.

Comfortable 3D viewing can also be adjusted with the 3D Viewing Monitor and the 3D Picture Balance features. Because the 3D effect changes with varying screen sizes, the 3D Viewing Monitor ensures that the viewer’s stereoscopic effect is within the safety zone set forth by the 3D Consortium Committee. The left and right eye images can be displayed side by side on the PT-AE7000U with the individual Waveform Monitor to adjust 3D picture balance.

Other 3D features include 2D-3D Conversion, which converts 2D content into 3D images for 3D projection with five different 3D effect modes.

The projector is equipped with a built-in 3D IR transmitter that lets the user enjoy large-screen 3D images with optional eyewear, which is sold separately. The models, TY-EW3D10U, TY-EW3D2LU, TY-EW3D2MU and TY-EW3D2SU, also used for the Panasonic VIERA 3DTV, are convenient for those looking to enjoy 3D content on both their Panasonic TVs and projectors. An optional IR transmitter (ET-TRM110) is available for extended transmission distance.

The PT-AE7000U comes rich with features for those looking to customize their home theaters. Many Blu-ray Discs and DVDs come in aspect ratios that are even wider than the projector’s 16:9 aspect ratio to match the image size (2.35:1) seen in movie theaters. The projector’s Intelligent Lens Memory feature makes it possible for the user to easily program up to six different zoom/focus positions. Automatic switching between 16:9 and 2.35:1 video content is also possible thanks to the signal aspect detection capability on the PT-AE7000U.

More theater automation, such as lighting and a motorized screen, is possible with the PT-AE7000U because it comes equipped with two programmable 12-volt trigger terminals and VIERA Link®. VIERA Link® provides seamless operation of multiple VIERA Link® compatible Panasonic devices by using the PT-AE7000U remote control with backlit buttons.

The PT-AE7000U is also equipped with three HDMI™ inputs (supporting x.v.Color™ and Deep Color), so multiple HD sources can be connected without an HDMI switcher. Initial setup and installation are quick and easy, because the 2x zoom can cast a 120-inch diagonal image from as close as 3.6 meters (about 11 feet) to 7 meters (24 feet) from the screen. The projector’s lens shift capability enables 100 percent vertical adjustment and 26 percent horizontal adjustment, so the user can suspend the projector either close to the ceiling or mount it to a wall.

In addition to its outstanding features, the new PT-AE7000U is also an eco-conscious product. Its intelligent power management system reduces the lamp power to the exact required level of brightness depending on the content being displayed. Advanced Panasonic digital circuitry intelligently determines the necessary power output by analyzing more than 3 billion different image patterns. This advanced analysis process reduces the main power consumption by as much as 10 percent when the Dynamic Iris function is operating, thus saving energy.

Other ecological considerations include an off-timer that reduces wasteful power consumption, an extremely low standby power consumption of 0.08 watts, and a 4,000 hour (normal mode)/5,000 hour (eco mode) lamp life.

The Panasonic PT-AE7000U Full HD 3D home theater projector is made in Japan and will be available in September 2011, through authorized Panasonic resellers, at an MSRP of $3,499.00.

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!

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.

The Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 are new 3MOS Full HD camcorders introduced at CES 2011.  The HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 set themselves part from the 2011 Panasonic 1MOS Full HD camcorders by making use of three 1/4.1″ image sensors, which split the captured light into the red, green and blue colors – with each being processed by its own sensor.

Each camera captures 1920 x 1080 resolution video at 60p, along with a digital cinema mode for 24p capture.  All three new models are compatible with Panasonic’s 3D conversion lens for 3D video capture in-camera.  Additionally, the HS900 and TM900 models offer a manual control ring, which allows multiple manual control functions, including focusing, zoom, white balance, shutter speed and iris.

All camcorders feature SDXC memory card storage.  The TM900 adds 32GB internal flash memory, while the HS900 offers a 220GB hard drive.

More details in the press release below.

Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 Press Release

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 5, 2011) – Panasonic today introduced three new Full-High Definition (HD) 3MOS camcorders to its 2011 line, the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800. The new full-HD camcorders feature 1920 x 1080 resolution with 1080/60p recording to create crisp, detailed videos, and can also shoot 3D videos when used with Panasonic’s optional 3D Conversion Lens (VW-CLT1). Incorporating Panasonic’s 3MOS system – an advanced technology used in professional-level equipment– the new camcorders record bright, low-noise videos, even in low lighting. Other top-of-the-line features include a manual ring (TM900/HS900 only) for increased creativity, a 20x zoom and an intuitive 3.5” touch-screen LCD on the TM900 and HS900.

“We expect that the new Full-HD 3MOS camcorders will be our best yet, with image quality that rivals professional video equipment and further advancements on last year’s award-winning predecessors,” said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The full-HD camcorders not only have that added wow-factor – with 3D video shooting capability – but consumers can also capture amazing 2D videos, easily with our larger, more intuitive touch-screen LCDs.”

With the 3D conversion lens, users can take video recording to the next level and record 3D images with Panasonic’s new line of 3MOS camcorders. Once recorded, consumers can play back the 3D images or video on a VIERA 3DTV*2, a compatible 3D TV*3, or through an AVCHD-compatible player/recorder, such as Panasonic’s Blu-ray DiscTM player*4.

The HDC-TM900 and HDC-HS900 feature 3.5” LCDs, while the HDC-SD800 features a 3.0” LCD. Not only do the models include wide screens, they are now easier to use with advanced touch operation that allows for extremely smooth shooting and playback, with new touch operation functions including:

· Touch Zoom – Swiftly zoom in or out by finger movement.

· Touch Shutter – Automatically focus and take a photo by touching the subject*5 on the screen.

All three models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM900 also has 32GB*6 of internal memory and the HDC-HS900 has a 220GB hard disk drive for additional memory storage.

At the heart of Panasonic’s advanced processing system is the high-sensitivity 3MOS sensor with 7.59 million effective motion image pixels (2.53 megapixels x 3). The 3MOS sensor separates light received through the lens into the three primary colors – red, green and blue – processing each independently for professional-like color quality, detail and gradation.

The Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 camcorders also feature the large diameter (46mm) F1.5 Leica Dicomar Lens which produces brighter images and helps suppress ghosts and flare, while also minimizing distortion and degradation of contrast and resolution. In addition, its 35mm wide-angle1 capability makes it ideal for many different shooting situations, such as self-portraits and group photos indoors, and landscape shots outdoors.

The new models also feature the Crystal Engine PRO, which instantly processes the large amount of data that goes into full-HD quality for extremely clear, crisp motion images. The improved Crystal Engine PRO increases sensitivity and reduces noise by 45 percent compared to Panasonic’s conventional models, resulting in brighter images with minimal noise when shooting under low-light conditions. Intelligent Resolution technology ensures sharp, beautifully colored motion images, while Intelligent Zoom enables high-powered 20x zooming, correcting the image degradation that occurs in ordinary digital zooming.

Other features of the HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 include:

· HYBRID OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) – Helps correct blurring due to hand and arm shake by detecting the vertical or horizontal wrist movements, but also the subtle blurring that occurs when the subject is moving.

· iA (Intelligent Auto) with Face Recognition – Automatically selects the most suitable shooting mode at the press of a button, including Face Recognition, which finds the faces of registered people (up to six faces can be registered) and optimizes the focus and exposure and tracks the subject as it moves anywhere within the LCD frame.

· Eco-Mode*7 –Automatically turns off the power when the camcorder is not operated for five minutes, reducing wasteful energy use and saving battery power.

· 5.1-Channel Surround Sound System (HDC-TM900/HDC-HS900) – Uses five microphones so when sounds recorded from front, right, left and back are played on a 5.1-channel home theater system, viewers are surrounded by crisp, detailed sound.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-TM900, HDC-HS900 and HDC-SD800 camcorders will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. All models will be available in black.

Panasonic announced several new HD 1MOS camcorders at CES 2011.  All the new models are SDXC compatible, and several feature internal flash or hard disk memory for more storage options.  Check out the full rundown on all the new models below.

HDC-SD40: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 16.8x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM40: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 16.8x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 2.7-inch LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-HS80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 120GB internal HDD, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-SD80: 1/5.8″ MOS sensor, 1080/60i at 17Mbps, 34x optical zoom, 2.7-inch touchscreen LCD – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-TM90: 1/4.1″ MOS sensor, 1080/60p at 28Mbps, 21x optical zoom, 16GB internal memory, 3-inch touchscreen LCD, compatible with Panasonic 3D conversion lens – Check availability on Amazon.

HDC-SD90: 1/4.1″ MOS sensor, 1080/60p at 28Mbps, 21x optical zoom, 3-inch touchscreen LCD, compatible with Panasonic 3D conversion lens – Check availability on Amazon.

See all the product shots and press release below.

Panasonic Press Release

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 5, 2011) – Panasonic today announced a full roster of Full-High Definition (HD) camcorders to its 2011 line. The seven new easy-to-use camcorders, HDC-SD40, HDC-TM40, HDC-HS80, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80, HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90, all have a 1MOS sensor with 1920 x 1080 resolution feature wide-angle lenses. The Panasonic HDC-SD90 and HDC-TM90 are capable of shooting full-HD video with 1080/60p recording and can even record 3D video with the optional Panasonic 3D Conversion lens (VW-CLT1).

“Panasonic’s new line of HD camcorders offers something for everyone, from the ultra-lightweight and affordable SD40 and TM40, to the wide-angle lens and telephoto zoom of the HS80 and TM80, all the way up to the to the 3D recording capabilities of the TM90 and SD90,” said Chris Rice, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “These seven HD camcorders shoot exceptionally-well in low-light and, with Panasonic’s image stabilization, allow even novice shooters to capture stunning video.”

Leading off the line of 1MOS camcorders are the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90, featuring a compact body and the ability to record video in 3D with the addition of Panasonic’s 3D Conversion Lens. Once recorded, consumers can play back the 3D images or video on a VIERA® 3DTV*¹, a compatible 3D TV*², or through an AVCHD-compatible player/recorder, such as Panasonic’s Blu-ray Disc^TM player*³. While 3D video recording is possible, the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90 also record crisp true-to-life video in full-HD 2D video. The camcorders feature a 28mm*⁴ wide-angle lens with versatility to record indoors or in tight spaces, while at the same time capturing stunning images of wide landscapes or large groups into the frame.

For extra shooting power, the Panasonic HDC-TM90 and HDC-SD90 feature ultra-telephoto 40x Intelligent Zoom which uses Panasonic’s Crystal Engine PRO, a high-resolution processor that helps to record extremely clear, crisp videos even in low-lighting.  Also powered by the Crystal Engine Pro, the HDC-TM80 and HDC-HS80 offer exceptional zooming power with ultra-telephoto 42x Intelligent Zoom. The new models include a 33.7mm*⁵ wide-angle lens for versatile shooting at a variety of distances.

For consumers wanting a lightweight and affordable Full-HD camcorder, Panasonic introduces the ultra-compact HDC-TM40 and HDC-SD40. The TM40 and SD40 are the Panasonic’s lightest full-HD camcorders, weighing approximately 0.39lb, making them stylish and easy to carry around for any recording moment. The camcorders are also extremely low-power consuming Full-HD camcorders, capable of continuous recording up to 135 minutes without needing to charge the battery.

All seven models can record to SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Cards, while the HDC-TM90 and HDC-TM80 and HDC-TM50 also have 16GB*⁶ of internal memory and the HDC-HS80 has a 120GB hard disk drive for additional memory storage.

The Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80 and HDC-HS80 also feature advanced touch-screen operation with new touch-operation functions that allows for extremely smooth shooting and playback, including:

• Touch Zoom – Swiftly zoom in or out with the touch or swipe of the finger.
• Touch Shutter – Focus and take a digital photo by touching the subject on the screen*⁷.

Other features of the Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-SD80 and HDC-HS80 include:

• New HYBRID OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) – Helps reduce blur due to arm and hand shake with a lens in the optical system and a sensor in the electrical system. Detects blurring caused not only by vertical or horizontal wrist movements, but also the subtle blurring that occurs when the entire arm moves vertically or horizontally. Also achieves powerful correction during high-powered zooming, even on the move.
• iA (Intelligent Auto) with Face Recognition – Selects the most suitable shooting mode at the press of a button, including Face Recognition, which finds the faces of registered people (up to six faces) and optimizes the focus and exposure for them. The camcorder continues to track this subject as the person moves anywhere within the frame.
• Eco-Mode*⁸ – Automatically turns off the power when the camcorder is not operated for five minutes, reducing wasteful energy use and saving battery power.

Pricing and availability for the Panasonic HDC-TM90, HDC-SD90, HDC-TM80, HDC-HS80, HDC-TM40 and HDC-SD40 High Definition 1MOS camcorders will be announced 30 days prior to shipping date. All models will be available in black, while the HDC-TM80 and HDC-SD80 will also be available in red and silver.

Amazon has thrown out a killer deal on the Panasonic TA-1 HD Pocket Camcorder for $69.99 and free shipping.  The TA-1 records 1080p HD video in MP4 and iFrame formats to SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards with electronic image stabilization.  A full spec rundown is at the bottom of this post.

Purchase the Panasonic TA-1 HD Pocket Camcorder from Amazon

Technical Specs

Just because Black Friday is almost over doesn’t mean the deals have completely stopped flowing and I have searched out some camcorder deals starting with the Canon VIXIA HF M30, which I recently reviewed and is now priced at $399.00 at B&H Photo/Video and Amazon.  Hit the break to see more camcorder deals.

Canon

• Canon VIXIA HF S200 – $749.00 at B&H and Amazon
• Canon VIXIA HF M30 – $399.00 at B&H and Amazon
• Canon VIXIA HF R100 – $249.88 at Amazon and $279.00 at B&H

Flip Video

• Flip UltraHD (1 hour) – $99.99 at B&H and Amazon
• Flip UltraHD (2 hour) – $171.00 w/$20 gift card at B&H and $170.99 at Amazon

Panasonic

• Panasonic HDC-SD60 – $299.00 at B&H and $299.99 at Amazon

Samsung

• Samsung HMX-H200 – $249.00 at B&H and Amazon

Sanyo

• Sanyo VPC-PD2 Xacti – $99.00 at B&H and Amazon
• Sanyo VPC-CG10 Xacti – $109.00 at B&H and Amazon
• Sanyo VPC-CG4 Xacti – $129.00 at B&H and $129.99 at Amazon

Sony

• Sony HDR-CX110 – $299.00 at B&H and $327.00 at Amazon
• Sony MHS-TS20 8GB Bloggie – $159.99 at Amazon and $167.99 at B&H

]]> http://www.techtilt.com/2010/11/26/high-definition-hd-camcorder-deals/feed/ 0 http://www.techtilt.com/2010/11/25/298-panasonic-plasma-1080p-hdtv-available-on-black-friday/ http://www.techtilt.com/2010/11/25/298-panasonic-plasma-1080p-hdtv-available-on-black-friday/#comments Thu, 25 Nov 2010 11:01:08 +0000 Joe http://www.techtilt.com/?p=3428

According to ZDnet has an inside scoop that Buy.com will have a $298 Panasonic TC-P42U2 Plasma 1080p HDTV deal.  Sean Portnoy says an hour or so after the clock strikes midnight on Thanksgiving and the Black Friday madness begins, Buy.com will list the HDTV deal of the season.

The Panasonic TC-P42U2 is not packed with features, but does boast a 2,000,000:1 native contrast ratio and 600Hz sub-field drive.  For comparison B&H Photo/Video offers it for $529.95 and Amazon has is for $599.98 at time of this post.  Needless to say, that is a great deal.  Typically, a decent 32″ will cost more that $300.

[via ZDnet]

Panasonic’s HDC-HS700 is a great little HDD/SD hybrid AVCHD camcorder that will serve well for most anyone wanting to produce rock solid HD video and the integrated 5.1 channel built in mic can make for fun, surround sound home movies.The HDC-HS700′s three, 3.05 megapixel CMOS sensors provide crisp clean images with vivid color and the image stabilization makes for video that anyone can be proud of.  Really, with a little practice, most anyone can produce great footage.

The controls are laid out well with the main functions easy to access and comfortable to reach.  The slight upward slope toward the viewfinder makes reaching the zoom switch and photo button more comfortable.  The high ridge of the grip gives a stable feel and also aids in comfort.   Menu controls are a blend of push buttons and touch-screen buttons making navigation quite simple.  I actually prefer at least some push buttons since they are generally more responsive.  Before diving into the menu I had in my mind there would be scads of options, but really that is not the case.  Menus are easy to navigate and the touch screen has just the right amount of sensitivity.  Keep a soft cloth handy though. Finger prints are inevitable as with all the touch screen cameras I’ve used.  The screen on the HDC-HS700 is on the low resolution side and is a bit small for this level of camcorder.  While the screen is important, I put more emphasis on the quality of video which is very good as you can see in the video below.

This clip was shot at 1080/60p.  There is also a sample still image a little further down in this post.

The HDC-HS700 is quite compact, so taking this camera out for a day of shooting video wouldn’t be a big chore.  In fact, this camera is on of the most compact available with a full set of features and digital viewfinder.  However, because of the hard disk the HDC-HS700 is a bit heavy compared to the size.  Battery life for the HDC-HS700 is very good; above average I would say, but for extended periods of shooting a spare battery is a must.  Panasonic offers the standard VW-VB130 as a reasonably priced option that should serve well.  Panasonic went with the old fashioned dial selector for still/record/playback mode selection, which works well, making choosing between the modes quick and easy.  The digital view finder is a welcome option for filming in direct sunlight, for example.  Simply slide the viewfinder out to enable it.  The record button is in the traditional location for palm camcorders, allowing for easy thumb operation.

The camera function button located on the left side of the lens barrel allows for making quick adjustment of things like focus, white balance, shutter and iris.  Simply select an option via the LCD touch-screen and the rotating ring toggles between the options, which also doubles as a fine zoom control for precise zooming while filming.  When open, the LCD screen will rotate 180 degrees while flipping the image to make viewing from almost any angle possible.

On the HDC-HS700, Panasonic places the shoe accessory mount on top for the body under a door that is easily opened.  The shoe is a cold mount, so accessories such as lights will need their own power source to operate.  The built in 5.1 channel surround mic doubles as a stereo mic as well an actually does a decent job of collecting a warm sound quality rather than the tinny audio of most camcorder mics.  Home movies in 5.1 surround sound… that’s just too cool.  The built in wind cut does a good job as well.

The trio of CMOS sensors are small, so don’t expect DSLR still image quality, but for quick snapshots it does quite well and the built in light doubles as a flash for low light.

The output ports are pretty standard for an HD camcorder.  There is one USB, HDMI, A/V multi and headphone (located on other side, in front of strap).  There is one mic input and a cold shoe mount on top for mics and lights.   The SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot will handle up to a 64GB SDXC card.  A major gripe of mine is camera’s with an HDMI output, but no HDMI cable included and the HDC-HS700 is no different, though Panasonic does include component cables you still need to string a separate cable to connect the audio to a source.

Accessories

Panasonic VW-VBG130 Replacement Battery Pack – The Panasonic HDC-HS700 comes with a good rechargeable lithium-ion battery; however, if you’re going to be away from power for an extended period a spare may come in handy.  For even more capacity Panasonic offers the VW-VBG260 as well.

Manfrotto 190XDB Tripod Kit – To get that smooth movement for more professional looking video a tripod is a must have.  Don’t buy a cheap $15 excuse for a tripod.  I have had those and they just don’t work.  Buy a quality piece like the Manfrotto 190XDB.  At a $150 price the 190XDB kit with ball head is in mot budgets and your video will benefit.

Bescor LED-25 25W LED On-Camera Light – For an inexpensive LED light that will work as continuous light source and not drain the cameras battery, the Bescor LED-25 may be a good option

Extra Memory – While the Panasonic HDC-HS700 comes equipped with 240GB internal memory, you may want the ability to expand that even further.  I’ve used the basic Kingston SDHC cards in the HDC-HS700, which worked just fine. No need to go all out on fast memory cards with the HDC-HS700. You’ll just need to make sure you pick up SD cards that are Class 4 or higher in order to capture Full HD video. The HDC-HS700 is compatible with all SD, SDHC and SDXC cards.

Memory card reader – If you don’t own a memory card reader, they make transferring images to your computer a world faster.  I highly recommend picking one up with the HDC-HS700.  They’re cheap and big time saver.  Lexar makes a good card reader for about $15.

Pearstone Gold Series HDMI Video Cable – It is convenient to be able to play back newly recorded video on a larger screen without loading onto a computer and a HDMI cable makes that task super easy.  At $25 this Pearstone cable is a pretty good deal.

Camera Bag – When making an investment into a high end camcorder make sure it is protected when in storage by keeping is zipped up in a quality case.

Conclusion

The Panasonic HDC-HS700 is a great little camcorder with awesome video quality, 5.1 channel surround audio, 240GB internal hard drive plus SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot for expansion and a user friendly interface.  For a $1,000+ camera you expect to get great quality and a wide range of features and the HDC-HS700 does deliver in most respects, but if you are on a budget the Panasonic HDC-TM700 may be a better option as it has almost identical features without the large hard disk and costs about $400 less.  Panasonic has made the HDC-HS700 able to perform the duties of more experienced videographers, but easy enough to use for the casual endeavor as well.  Hefty computing power is required  to handle 1080/60p video, so the casual videographer be warned.  All-in-all the Panasonic HDC-HS700 is a great little camcorder, on that I’ve enjoyed shooting with and getting to know, but a bit pricey if you don’t really need a large hard disk.

Panasonic HDC-HS700 at B&H Photo/Video

For European standards B&H has the Panasonic HDC-HS700 PAL camcorder as well.

Specifications

Crews.tv has posted some sample footage from their time with the new Panasonic AG-AF100, which features a Micro Four Thirds sensor and interchangeable lenses.

Details about the footage and Crews.tv’s experience below.

We only had the camera for a few hours so we decided to keep it simple.

The camera is capable of 35mm lenses, so we used a PL adapter and Zeiss Ultra Primes , choosing from our set as we saw fit on the day. We chose to record on the on-board SD cards with the AVCHD codec at 24 mbs but we also opted to use the HDSDI output, recording at 100 mbs on the AVC Intra HD codec to P2 cards. We opted to do this rather than recording to Nanoflash simply to keep it all Panasonic native.

We chose this work-flow as we simply wanted to see this camera in the very best light possible.

[Crews.tv]