Smallest 3CCD camera

[VJ]

Just came across this news, and thought is something for you guys here.

http://www.gizmodo.com/gadgets/digital-cameras/index.php#panasonic-nvgs150-worlds-smallest-3-ccd-camcorder-029731

Is the Matsushita/Panasonic Digicam NV-GS150 the world's smallest 3 CCD digital camcorder? That's what they tell me. The new handheld was shown off yesterday in Japan, highlighting its 2.32-megapixel sensor—pretty good for a video recorder, especially one just 123mm long. And the price isn't half bad either: just $777.

Jörg

[Dr Mordrid]

Cool

Dr. Mordrid

[jeff b]

It's not that much smaller than the 3CCD Panasonic DV-GS70D, which I picked up last spring. What makes the small camcorder worth having is that it'll fit into a jacket pocket, making it easy to carry around for any of those "just in case" times.

I've been using a Sony TRV900 for a few years, now, and although there have only been one or two situations where I haven't bothered to take it with me because of its size, the whole idea of a pocket sized 3CCD camcorder just grabbed at me when I saw it!

The quality is the issue, of course, so there was no point in getting a dinky single CCD camcorder, regardless of what size pocket it might fit into. The difference would demand that any project either be shot entirely with the one CCD unit or entirely with the 3CCD unit, because going back and forth would result in noticable quality differences.

The first thing I noticed with the Panasonic was that the Electronic Image Stabilization was (as expected) not that great. Add to that the light weight of the unit, and handheld shots done while walking, driving, or moving around in any way can be problematic.

I made a comparison between the Sony and the Panasonic with image stabilization turned off. I did the same shots from a moving car. The Sony shots were much better, simply due to the camcorder's larger size and greater weight, which allows one to hold the thing steadier to begin with.

The other item about the Panasonic worth mentioning is that it's practically worthless when the humidity goes up. The slightest trace of moisture, and the unit shuts down with a "DEW PRESENT" warning. It ejects the tape, and turns off.

Reviews I've read about this from other sources mentioned one or two units that got "fried" when they turned them back on right after the "DEW PRESENT" situation. Maybe they've made this new model a little safer in that respect...

All in all, though, the model I have has come in very handy, and the stuff I shoot with it looks fine. I've gotten a lot of great shots that I otherwise never would have gotten because it's just so easy to carry around.

Jeff B

[dchip]

CCD

I wonder what size is the CCD system on this? I am guessing no larger than 1/6th inch, like the other small Panasonic(s). It would be nice if it is larger. Maybe Panasonic would finally have a small 3CCD for consumers that is also gets good video in low-light. The picture is probably deceptive due to all the lens housing, but does leave me hopeful that this one has a ¼ inch setup. That would be nice.