April will see the release by Panasonic Australia of two new Full High Definition (FHD) camcorders featuring an advanced, high-sensitivity 3MOS imaging system.

 

February 10, 2010: April will see the release by Panasonic Australia of two new Full High Definition (FHD) camcorders featuring an advanced, high-sensitivity 3MOS imaging system.
Both the HDC-HS700 (RRP $2499) and HDC-SD700 (RRP $1699) record in 1080/50p (Full-HD, 1920 x 1080, 50 frames per second progressive recording) and feature a Leica f/1.5 lens with a 35mm (equivalent) wide angle coverage and 12x optical zoom. An Intelligent Zoom function enables 18x zooming. Panasonic’s 3MOS sensor technology is similar to the technology used in professional camcorders and allows the red, green and blue signals to be processed independently for vivid colour, detail and gradation. The sensor is coupled to a new Crystal Engine Pro processor, which supports increased sensitivity with lower noise.

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Panasonic’s new HDC-HS700 is a hybrid model with a 240-GB HDD and SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot. (Source: Panasonic.)
Both models come in black only and both include Panasonic’s new POWER (Optical Image Stabiliser) O.I.S., which provides approximately five times the corrective power of previous IS systems. It is particularly effective in suppressing low-frequency vibration, such as slow swaying movements, thanks to a new Active mode, that allows users to shoot while moving or walking.

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The HDC-SD700 is a lightweight model that records to SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and is robust enough for travellers. (Source: Panasonic.)
Panasonic’s iA (Intelligent Auto) function, found in both models, now includes a new Face Recognition function, which lets the user register up to six faces. The camcorder will automatically recognise these faces and track them, adjusting focus and exposure accordingly. Both models also have a large manual ring for controlling zoom, focus, aperture, shutter speed and white balance. EVF and microphone terminals further extend control options.
The HDC-HS700 is a hybrid camcorder with a 240-GB HDD for around 102 hours of recording (in HE mode). It also has a memory card slot that accepts SD/SDHC and SDXC cards. The HDC-SD700 is highly resistant to knocks and bumps because it has no drive mechanism. It records onto SDXC, SDHC or SD memory cards and weighs only 375 grams, making it ideal for travellers.
The Panasonic HDC-HS700 and HDC-SD700 will be available through consumer electronics retailers and photographic specialists. For more information, contact Panasonic on 132 600 or visit www.panasonic.com.au