Panasonic HDC-TM10 Camcorder

The HDC-TM10 ($599 MSRP), along with the HDC-SD10, represent the newest additions to Panasonic's consumer HD camcorder line. The camcorders are essentially more compact, repackaged versions of Panasonic's previous mid-range HD camcorders (the HDC-TM20, SD20, and HS20). The HDC-TM10 has the same sensor, pixel count, and optical zoom as these larger, cousin models—and it also captures Full HD video at 1920 x 1080. Panasonic didn't change many features or controls on the HDC-TM10 either. It still has the iA modes, a 24p Digital Cinema option, and a touchscreen interface. The TM10 does include less internal memory than the TM20 (8GB vs. 16GB), as well as a slightly smaller lens, an extra optical image stabilization setting, and updated editing software.

Since the HDC-TM10 is expected to retail for the same amount as the HDC-TM20, the decision between the two camcorders comes down to size and design. The TM10 is more compact and portable, while the TM20 is larger but has double the internal memory. The HDC-TM10 comes in black or silver and is due to be available in September 2009.

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Canon Vixia HF S10 Camcorder

The Vixia HF S10 is one of three "flagship" camcorders released by Canon this year. It doesn't have the updated stabilization or the increased capacity of the recently released HF S11. However, it offers the same excellent performance, while giving consumers more convenience than the card-only HF S100. And since we're not really sure the HF S11 is worth the extra money, the HF S10 may be the best buy Canon has to offer this holiday season.

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Sony Handycam HDR-XR520V

The Sony HDR-XR520V (MSRP $1499.99) packs a lot of punch—and a lot of hard drive capacity—into a relatively small consumer camcorder. The retractable viewfinder and the return of last year's excellent manual control dial are just a couple of the features that will intrigue proficient camcorder users. Also intriguing? The incredibly low noise levels, clear and smooth motion, built-in GPS, and 240GB internal hard drive.

There are some downsides that consumers of every ilk will have to weigh for themselves: no manual aperture/shutter control, mediocre low light performance, the lack of 24p or 30p frame rates, and an intimidating array of buttons, switches, and layered menus. It's not the ideal camcorder for a first-time user, nor does it offer every bell and whistle that the experienced videographer could want. It does have some intuitive features and excellent video performance: a combination that might be just what some consumers are looking for.

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JVC Everio GZ-HM400

The GZ-HM400 ($999 MSRP) is the larger, more sophisticated cousin model to the JVC GZ-X900. While both camcorders have similar imaging specifications, the GZ-HM400 is packed with extra controls, 32GB of internal memory, and a splendid adjustment dial that puts JVC's Laser Touch system to shame.

Unfortunately, the GZ-HM400 suffered from the same low light difficulties that plagued the GZ-X900, although it did represent a significant improvement in that category.

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Canon FS200

The FS200 is a stylish little standard definition camcorder from Canon that costs around $299 MSRP. The FS200 records to SD/SDHC memory cards, offers a 37x optical zoom, and is one of the best all-around standard definition cams we've tested this year.

The Canon FS200 is available in three colors: Misty Silver, Sunrise Red, and Evening Blue.

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JVC Announces New GZ-HD620

Victor Company of Japan (the Japanese brand for JVC) announced today the release of the new Everio GZ-HD620, a high definition camcorder with a 1/4.1-inch, 3.32MP CMOS sensor and 30x optical zoom. The camcorder features a light body—weighing only 270g despite its 120GB internal hard drive. The HD620 announcement follows closely on the heels of three new standard definition camcorders announced by JVC last week: the GZ-MG980, GZ-MS230, and GZ-MS210.


JVC is touting the HD620 as the smallest and lightest high definition camcorder with a built-in hard drive. Weighing just 270g (310, with included battery) and measuring 53 x 63 x 115mm, the HD620 may, in fact, fit that bill. The new compact form factor seems to be the biggest upgrade over last year's GZ-HD320, though the 2010 model also boasts an impressive 30x optical zoom. The AVCHD codec, 24Mbps bitrate, digital image stabilization, Konica Minolta lens, and CMOS sensor all appear to be unchanged from the 2009 HD Everio lineup.

The HD620 and all three standard definition camcorders announced last week are so far only announced for the Japanese market, and have not yet been priced. We expect to find out whether these models will be available stateside during the Consumer Electronics Show at the beginning of January.

For complete details (in Japanese only, sorry), see the full product page on the Victor site:
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/dvmain/gz-hd620/index.html

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CANON CAMCORDER FS11 + 2 GB

Dual Flash MemoryGiving you not one, but two ways to record, the FS11 incorporates Canon’s Dual Flash Memory system. With 16Gb of internal memory – enough to store over 10 hours of Standard Definition (SD) movies – you’re always ready to shoot. Easily increase capacity on long days out by recording to removable SD or SDHC memory cards.

A designer style
The FS11 catches the eye with its refreshingly modern style. With no moving parts, flash memory is much smaller than other media types – that means the FS11 also has a stunningly compact design. Plus, flash memory stays safe against occasional bumps and knocks.

45x Advanced Zoom
The FS11 features Canon’s Advanced Zoom. Combining a genuine Canon video lens and powerful DIGIC DV II processing, the camcorder gives you an incredibly long zoom – up to 45x.

Advanced moviemaking
The FS11 showcases a range of powerful moviemaking features, helping to deliver superb movies: a Megapixel CCD, DIGIC DV II and True Wide High Resolution 16:9 recording.

Superior audio quality
Bring your movies to life with a great soundtrack – an input terminal allows an external microphone to be attached, recording the sound you want far more accurately.

Keep on shooting
Storing movies to flash memory has a much lower power requirement than recording to discs, tapes, or a Hard Disk Drive – in fact, you can shoot for up to 3 hours with the supplied battery pack alone. An Intelligent lithium-ion battery system shows you just how much recording time is left, accurate to the minute.

Digital stills
Capture high quality digital photographs. DIGIC DV II drives the camcorder’s photography features, ensuring faithful colour reproduction whether you shoot video or still images.

High speed transfer
A USB2.0 Hi Speed connection provides a super-quick way of getting movies and photos onto a computer – simply connect the camcorder via a single cable, then share.

Easy DVD burning
Easily burn movies to full size DVDs with the optional DW-100 – a one-stop solution for sharing your home videos. Then, simply watch finished discs on a standard DVD player.

Imaging software
Supplied with the camcorder, Pixela ImageMixer(TM) 3 SE allows you to organise, play back and edit your video clips, then convert them to alternative file formats. The software also offers DVD creation features – another easy way to share footage.

Specification:

Digital Video
Power Consumption	1.9w (SP Mode)
Image Sensor	1/6` CCD Sensor
Total Pixels	Approx. 1,070,000 pixels
Effective Pixels	Movies: 16:9 - approx. 550,000 pixels (ADV.Z off) 16:9 - approx. 710,000 pixels (ADV.Z on, wide) 16:9 - approx. 410,000 pixels (ADV.Z on tele) Photos: approx. 800,000 pixels
Maximum recording time	16GB Internal Flash Drive: LP (3 Mbps): 10 hours, 25 minutes SP (6 Mbps): 5 hours, 30 minutes XP (9 Mbps): 3 hours, 40 minutes Greater Capacity is Possible by Adding an SDHC Memory Card.
Lens	Zoom Ratio 48x Advanced Zoom (16:9 mode) 37x Optical/2000x Digital Focal Length f=2.6-96.2mm Zoom Speed Variable/3 Fixed Zoom Speeds Max. F/Stop f/2.0-5.2
Programmed AE	Auto, Program, Tv, Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, Fireworks
Max Shutter Speed	1/2000 1/500 (card)
Minimum Focusing Distance	10 mm (wide)/1m (tele)
White Balance	Daylight, Tungsten, Auto, Manual
Image Stabilization	Electronic
LCD Screen	2.7` Widescreen LCD (Approx. 123,000 pixels)
Recording Media	Internal Flash Memory (16GB) or SD/SDHC Memory Card
Audio	Dolby Digital 2ch (AC-3 2 ch)
Microphone Terminal	3.5 mm Stereo Mini-jack
Dimensions	(WxHxD) 2.3 x 2.4 x 4.9 in/58 x 60 x 124mm
Weight (not including lens and battery pack)	9.2 oz. (260g)

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Sanyo VPC-FH1BK Black 8MP HD 10820p Dual Digital Video Camera with 3.0"" LCD

VPC-FH1BK (black)

• Full 1080p HD  Video (60fps)
• 8-Megapixel Digital Photos and High-Speed Sequential Shooting (12fps*)　
• Super Slow Motion Playback Mode (up to 600fps)
• 3-inch wide LCD Display
• 10x Optical Zoom for photos
• 16x advanced zoom for video
• Digital Image Stabilizer (Movies & Stills)
• Face Chaser technology (can detect up to 12 faces for photos and videos)
• Built-in still photo flash
• HDMI Output
• MPEG-4, H.264 Video
• Optional lenses: Tele, Wide, Semi-Fisheye
• SD/SDHC memory compatible
*in 4M mode

Product Description
Take stunning Full 1080p High Definition video at 60fps and amazing 8 megapixel digital photos!   The compact Sanyo Dual Camera Xacti FH1 delivers high performance results with multiple features normally found on much higher priced video and photo cameras.  The FH1 packs tons of features which are sure to please the most discerning user; including 600fps slow motion mode, face chasing technology which automatically read and corrects focus and lighting for up to 12 different subjects, and 16x optical zoom for video.  Its compact design makes the FH1 extremely portable and easy to use.  Videos, still photos and the various settings and menus can be easily accessed with the user’s thumb.  The FH1’s convenient design makes sharing videos and photos via social networking web sites, portable video devices like iPod’s, TV’s and computers, a breeze.
High Performance and Stylish Design Made Simple
The Dual Camera Xacti FH1 packs high performance, cutting edge technology into a small, stylish, easy to use camera.  Designed to fit perfectly in the palm of your hand, the Dual Camera FH1 features an easy to navigate menu which make it a great choice for the beginner and the more advanced user.  It is the perfect blend of style, performance, and ease of use. 
Large, 3-inch Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) The display flips out from the camera and rotates up to 285 degrees on an axis that allows you to take great video or still images from otherwise-difficult-to-view positions, proving to be especially useful when shooting in confined spaces.

8 Megapixel Still Image Quality
In addition to Full 1080P HD Video the FH1 takes amazing 8 megapixel still photos.  With an 8 megapixel (effective) CMOS image sensor the still images can be interpolated to reach 12 megapixel quality.
10x optical zoom (photos)
16x optical zoom (video)
The FH1 features an amazing 16x Advanced Optical Zoom for video. With Sanyo’s 16x Advanced Optical Zoom Technology the field of view is increased to approximately 44 millimeters (vs. 77mm for more conventional zoom). The overall zooming range is F=41.7-666.9mm (35mm equivalent). The photo zoom capability is 10x Optical Zoom with an F=35.7-357mm range (35mm equivalent).
12 Subject Face Chaser Technology
The FH1 recognizes up to 12 faces for videos and still pictures and optimizes focus and aperture settings to ensure all subjects are in focus.

Up to 600 fps Slow Motion
Sanyo's FH1 features increased slow motion capability. Shooting in SHR mode (448x336) the FH1 can reach an amazing 240 frames per second. In UHR mode (192x108) it can reach an astounding 600fps slow motion capability.
Three-Dimensional Noise Reduction (3D-DNR)

Sanyo's 3D-DNR technology offers a significant improvement in video clarity by reducing random signal noise. This improvement in bit rate allocation will result in a highly accurate video image.

    

                Standard                                   3D-DNR (simulated images)

Sophisticated image stabilizer
Using a proprietary Sanyo algorithm, the FH1 automatically compensates for distracting up-and-down or side-to-side camera movement, keeping your subject steady and easy to follow. It accurately distinguishes between unintentional camera shake and deliberate camera movement. This handy feature operates in both wide-angle and telephoto modes!

                       Input Image                                                 Output Images
Sequential photo mode shoots up to 12 frames per second
Take pictures like the pros with sequential shooting up to 12 frames per second.  The perfect solution for action photography.

Highly advanced MPEG4 AVC/H.264 video compression
This feature optimizes the file size and makes sharing movies on social networking sites, or e-mailing them to friends and family, even easier.  In fact, the file size can be up to 25 percent smaller than that of typical MPEG-4 cameras.
To accomplish the complexity of encoding AVC/H.264 in real-time on the FH1, a dedicated H.264 video compression IC was incorporated into the camera that was designed specifically for portable consumer devices.  This achieves high video quality while simultaneously reducing the system power consumption.
Easily transfer video and still images to your video capable iPod
Import video and still image files directly into iTunes software and then port them to your video-capable iPod.  Share your latest masterpiece with friends and family.

Record over 5 hours of full motion video
Using a 16GB SDHC memory card users can capture over 11 hours and 6 minutes worth of video in standard definition or approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes in full HD video mode. 
Capture still images while you’re shooting video
The FH1 enables simultaneous shooting of video clips and still images with a simple press of the shutter button during the shooting of a movie clip. You will never need to miss another precious photo opportunity. (Depending on the mode used to take still images, simultaneous video clip shooting may be interrupted. While shooting video clips, using the digital image stabilizer may change the angle of view for still images.)
Super-fast start-up
Reduce your chance of missing the perfect shot. The Dual Camera Xacti FH1 is designed for super fast start-up and shooting. With its tapeless design, the FH1 eliminates the need to queue up a video tape, allowing it to begin shooting in as little as 1.7 seconds! When the FH1 is powered on, closing the LCD display puts it in standby mode. Simply open the display and the FH1 automatically powers up and can begin immediately recording in as little as 1.7 seconds.  

Includes a high-capacity Sanyo brand lithium-ion battery
The DB-L50 is a high capacity battery designed to work with the Sanyo Xacti FH1 camera and delivers approximately 135 minutes of video record time.  High-energy density design minimizes the battery size and weight, making it perfect for use in the Sanyo Dual Camera Xacti FH1. The DB-L50 is designed to resist memory accumulation so it provides a full charge every time.
Easy playback of recorded video directly on a TV
The FH1 camera features a HDMI output which makes connecting it to a Digital TV or DVD Recorder a breeze.  The FH1 can also easily be connected to a computer to back-up copies of recorded content. Still images and video clips are played back continuously and in chronological order.  When connected to a PC, simple drag-and-drop operation makes it easy to save recorded video clips and still images onto a computer's hard disk for emailing, editing or archiving.

Galvanometer method structure, Auto focus: 9 groups, 12 elements (4 aspheric elements, 8 aspheric surfaces), Built-in neutral density filter, Photos: f=35.7-357mm(=35mm), Optical 10x zoom, Videos: f=41.7-666.9mm(=35mm) 16x Adv. zoom, Low-light sensitivity - 6 lux (AUTO mode, 1/30 seconds) 2 lux (Lamp mode 1/15) Sensitivity - Auto (ISO 50-200), Manual (ISO 50/100/200/400/800/1600/3200) AV output (HDMI / S-video / Composite video, NTSC/PAL, Audio - Stereo sound) USB 2.0 (high-speed mode) Dimensions - Width 2.1” x Depth 4.13” x Height 2.25” Weight, approximately 12.1 ounces including battery and SD card.

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Sony Webbie HD MHS-CM1 Camcorder

Introduction
With the instability of today's economy, it's perhaps fortuitous that Sony decided to push more heavily into the ultra-budget camcorder market in 2009. This year's Consumer Electronics Show saw the introduction of the Sony Webbie HD MHS-CM1, a traditional horizontal camcorder with a low price tag, easy high definition recording, and simple uploading to sites like YouTube.

But with the market already inundated by similar products, including the extremely successful Pure Digital Flip Mino HD, Sony needs to create a stellar product in order to carve out its own niche. While the MHS-CM1 had overall video performance to rival the competition, it couldn't stand up to low light conditions and, perhaps more importantly in this category, it wasn't nearly as easy to use as models from Pure Digital or RCA. Plagued with complicated software installation, inconsistent menu operation, and a bland aesthetic, the Sony MHS-CM1 won't be enough to dethrone the Flip king.

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Sony HDR-XR520V Handycam First Impressions Camcorder

The HDR-XR520V is the new top-dog HD camcorder from Sony. It packs a 240GB internal hard drive into a fairly compact frame and offers new Exmor R technology on a 1/2.88-inch CMOS sensor. The new sensor as well as improved processing is designed to boost low light performance, reduce noise, and offer a clearer picture than previous Sony models. The HDR-XR520V also has a built-in GPS mapping system, a special Active Mode image stabilization enhancement feature, and a Sony G lens designed to work specifically with the new image sensor and processor system. Sony is expected to make the HDR-XR520V available to consumers in March for roughly $1500.


Lens & Sensor
The HDR-XR520V has a 1/2.88-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor and an effective pixel count of 4,150,000. This new sensor is being touted by Sony as having better low light capabilities than last year's models and the improved BIONZ processor supposedly offers a cleaner image with less noise.

Lens		Sensor
Filter Diameter	37mm	Type	CMOS
Focal Range	5.5 - 60.0mm	Size	1/2.88-inches
Focal Range (35mm equiv.)	43 - 516mm (16:9) 52 - 624mm (4:3)	Pixel Count (gross)	6,631,000 Pixels
Aperture	f/1.8 - 3.4	Pixel Count (Effective)	4,150,000 Pixels (16:9) 3,110,000 Pixels (4:3)

Front
The front of the HDR-XR520V is mostly lens barrel. Hanging out on the left side of the lens is the flash, which can be turned on and off in the menu. Underneath the lens is a small, assignable dial (referred to as the Cam Control dial on last year's models) that can be used to make manual adjustments. We raved about this dial last year and we're happy to see it here again on the HDR-XR520V.

The front of the HDR-XR520V

Right
The right side of the HDR-XR520V doesn't look much different than last year's models. The large 240GB hard drive bulks up this side, but it doesn't make the camcorder too big and it still fits in your hand comfortably. The camcorder has a traditional Sony hand strap that is adjustable and sturdy. There are two sections of ports on the right of the HDR-XR520V—a headphone jack and microphone jack are behind a pop-out port cover near the back, and a port cover near the front slides open to reveal an AV-output, USB port, and an HDMI output.

The right side of the HDR-XR520V

Back
From the back, the first thing we noticed is how much thinner the XR520V is compared to last year's Sony HDR-SR12. The fact that Sony managed to produce a slimmer camcorder while still doubling the size of the internal hard drive is rather impressive. The button layout and design is also different on the HDR-XR520V compared to last year's models. Instead of a mode dial to switch between still and video mode, the XR520V features a small mode button. The record button, which is still located in the same place, has been granted a tall, slim design. Beneath the record button is the camcorder's DC input.
The HDR-XR520V does have an electronic viewfinder as well as a battery compartment here on the back of the camcorder.

The back of the HDR-XR520V

Left
The left side of the HDR-XR520V doesn't have much going on—until you look inside the LCD cavity. Hiding inside the cavity are a number of buttons: power, playback, display, easy, and DVD burn. There are also two sliding switches: one turns GPS on and off and the other chooses low light modes (standard, low lux, and NightShot). The Memory Stick slot is located next to this collection of buttons, behind a little door.

The left side of the HDR-XR520V with LCD closed...	...and the left side with the LCD open

Top
On the top of the camcorder is a door that slides open to reveal the Sony accessory shoe, which is only compatible with Sony brand products. The zoom toggle and shutter button are also on the top of the camcorder, but are placed back where your index finger has easy access to them.

The top of the HDR-XR520V

Bottom
Not much is going on at the bottom of the HDR-XR520V. The battery release button and tripod mount are located here, but that's it.

The bottom of the HDR-XR520V

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JVC Everio GZ-HD300 Camcorder

Introduction
This year, JVC is focusing more on mid-range HD models than other manufacturers. While Sony, Panasonic, and Canon all introduced new top-of-the-line products, JVC spent most of its marketing attention on the Everio GZ-HD300 and GZ-HD320—two camcorders that both cost under $800. The demand for affordable high definition video is on the rise and the GZ-HD300 seems to be JVC's answer. It's incredibly compact and easy to use, but lacks all the bells and whistles of the $1000+ competition. In the testing labs, the HD300 outperformed the competition in some areas, but fell behind in others.

At a price of only $700, the JVC GZ-HD300 is a decent little high definition camcorder. It can't come close to the performance offered by more expensive models from other manufacturers, but it's a simple—and adequate—entry-level model. By forgoing the powerhouse performance, alternate frame rates, robust manual controls, and extra connectivity, you can save yourself some valuable money. The HD300 also has one thing that many other similarly priced camcorders lack: a 60GB internal hard drive. If you're shopping for a camcorder in this price range, you'll simply have to decide whether simplicity and affordability outweigh the few sacrifices you'll need to make.

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Panasonic HDC-TM300 Camcorder

Introduction
The Panasonic HDC-TM300 (MSRP $1299.99) is the flash memory equivalent of the HDC-HS300, which we reviewed earlier this year. Without the bulky hard drive, the TM300 has a slimmer profile that's more comfortable to hold and easier on the eyes. However, it still has the impressive video performance that drew our approval when we reviewed its hard-drive-based sister model.

The TM300 records excellent video in all lighting conditions, captures surprisingly good still photos, and has just about every feature you could want in a consumer camcorder. Combine that with some user-friendly automatic controls and you have a recipe for one of the best camcorders of 2009.

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Canon Vixia HF S11 Camcorder Review

Introduction
The Canon HF S11 is the latest flagship camcorder from Canon. The market is always interested to see what Canon has up its sleeve, but the HF S11 offers very few advantages over the HF S10, released earlier this year. Sure, you have the same solid video performance, but nothing has changed to improve the camcorder's low light sensitivity or the peculiar design elements that make this series intimidating for beginners. What you do get is 64GB of internal flash memory (twice that of its predecessor), an extra level of image stabilization, and compatibility with Canon's RA-V1 LANC adapter (see Connectivity section). These are certainly useful features, but they might not warrant a race to the stores for the HF S11.

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JVC Everio GZ-HM200 Camcorder Review

Introduction
As far as mid-range HD camcorders go, the JVC GZ-HM200 ($579 MSRP) is a solid product. The sister-model to the GZ-HD300, the HM200 includes dual SD/SDHC memory card slots and offers a fairly straightforward shooting experience. The camcorder has some handling issues—marred by cheap construction and a flimsy hand strap—but, overall, it's a good mid-range model from JVC.

The GZ-HM200 is available in blue, black, or red.

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Sony Announces Two New Pro Camcorders: The PMW-EX1R and PMW-350

Sony announced today the release of two new models to their XDCAM EX line of professional camcorders—the PMW-350 and the PMW-EX1R. The PMW-350 is an entirely new camcorder from Sony and it is the company's first memory-based camcorder to include a 2/3-inch CMOS chip.

The shoulder-mounted PMW-350 offers full 1920 x 1080 HD recording, includes professional connectivity options (including Timecode-in/out, Genlock-in/out, HD-SDI, and HDMI-output). The PMW-350 features a 2/3-inch bayonet lens mounting system, and the camcorder can be packaged with a 16x optical zoom kit lens for a total cost of $22,000. The kit lens offers automatic lens aberration compensation, three independent control rings, and a focal length of 8 - 128mm. The camcorder will also be available without the kit lens for $20,500. The PMW-350 is expected to be available in January 2010.

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