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Written by Kevin Hnatiuk
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Thursday, 13 July 2006 |
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 On today's show we looked at four different camcorders and some video-editing software from Apple.
• The Panasonic PV-GS300 3CCD MiniDV Camcorder is a good all round camcorder with pleasing colour and very good low-light performance. It's an excellent choice for the budget conscious consumer who wants a well-tested platform and reliability.
• Panasonic's SDR-S100 3CCD SD Camcorder is great to fit in your purse or jacket pocket. The S100 also does quite well in low-light scenarios but I'm not thrilled with the proprietary component of writing MPEG2 to the SD Card. Mac users beware, this camcorder will not work with your computer. Windows users will have no problem editing and accessing footage using the bundled software.
• Sony's HDR-HC3
HDV 1080i is a beautiful Hi-Definition Handycam with loads of bonus
features including a 24fps cinematic mode. Unfortunately, this camera
struggles in med-low light conditions. With the right amount of
lighting (ie. outside) you'll change religion and start praying at the
alter of Sony. Images are razor sharp and you won't be able to tear
your eyes away from it's pristine 1080i detail.
• The Sony DCR-SR100
30GB Handycam is an excellent choice if you're hunting for your next
Camcorder. It's low-light performance is surprising good for a one chip
camera and it can record for over 7-hours on the 30GB hard drive in HQ
mode. Transferring files via the USB 2.0 port is faster than capturing
them via firewire and the images look amazing for standard definition.
The built-in mic records in 5.1 surround sound so be careful what you
say when your kid gets his next off-side.
Sony products can be purchased directly from your local Sony Store or online. Panasonic Camcorders can be purchased from most local electronics stores or from Panasonic's website.
 View Segment 1 (6.72 megs) Panasonic PV-GS300, Panasonic SDR-S100, Sony DCR-SR100
View Segment 2 (7.34 megs) Sony HDR-HC3, Apple iMovie editing software, Composition Tips
Kevin
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