Seven New Panasonic Camcorders

February 24, 2008: Panasonic has announced a range of seven new standard definition camcorders that give users a choice of recording media.
The SDR-H280/H60/H40 are hybrid models that can record onto either SD Memory Cards, or their built-in hard disks. The VDR-D50 records onto DVD discs, and the NV-GS330 records onto miniDV tape. The SDR-H280 (SD/HDD) and NV-GS330 (MiniDV) are 3CCD models that deliver broadcast quality video. They feature Leica Dicomar lenses and optical image stabilisation. The SDR-H60 boasts a super-powerful 50x optical zoom, while the SDRH40 and VDR-D50 offer a 42x optical zoom.

The SDR-H280 is a 3CCD model that records to SD card or a built-in hard disk drive.
The SDR-H60 (RRP $989) has a high-capacity 60GB hard disk with up to 54 hours recording capacity. The SDR-H40 (RRP $879) offers 40GB (36 hours recording), and the SDR-H280’s 30GB hard disk holds up to 27 hours of recording. RRP for this model is $1,209. An Anti-Shock Shield helps protect the built-in hard disk from the effects of external impact. The ‘drop detect’ function detects if the camera is falling and automatically moves the head away from the hard drive to protect it from damage.
Recording onto DVD disks, the VDR-D50 (RRP $659) features a 42x optical zoom lens and advanced optical image stabilisation. The NV-GS330 (RRP $989) is a MiniDV model with 3CCD imaging technology and an optically-stabilised Leica Dicomar lens. Features include a 1.7 second Quick start setting, anti-ground shooting protection and webcam capability.

The VDR-D50 model records to DVD disks.

The NV-GS330 is a MiniDV model with 3CCD imaging technology.
Panasonic has also created two new Secure Digital (SD) camcorders: the waterproof, dust-proof and shock-proof SDR-SW20, and the ultra-compact SDR-S7. The waterproof, shockproof and sandproof SDR-SW20 (RRP $769) is for the ‘active adventurer’. It can be used in seawater to a depth of 1.5 metres and will withstand a drop of up to 1.2 metres. Its brushed metal case fits in the palm of the hand and protects the internal mechanisms against dust and grease.

The SDR-SW20 model is waterproof, shockproof and dustproof and records to SD or SDHC memory cards.
The SDR-S7 (RRP $549) is due for release in April and is ideal for users who want ultra-portability. Both models feature Panasonic’s Pure Colour Engine, which converts the CCD output signal from a complementary colour signal into an RGB signal at an early stage and extracts the low-frequency luminance component from the RGB signal for optimal colour reproduction. Both models are supplied with 4GB SHDC cards. For more information, visit www.panasonic.com.au.