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1300 Review
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Review on πŸ“Ή Panasonic PVDC352 MiniDV Ultra Compact Digital Camcorder with 2.5-inch LCD, SD Slot, MPEG4 & Digital Still Capability – Discontinued by Manufacturer by Joseph Stone

Revainrating 5 out of 5

1st choice after a long research!

I bought this camera in August 2002 and have used it extensively for the past two months. Fiction! About me. I have a digital camera and this is my first digital video camera so I had to do some research to spend the $. You can read technical information here and technical reviews on other websites (zdnet.com, bizrate.com etc.), so my review will be simple: PROS: - Compared to several Sony DV cameras, it is better/more responsive. Zoom, much better focus and better/sharper/clearer LCD - the reviews from JVC and Cannon left a lot to be desired and the practical use from Sony wasn't comparable despite being slightly smaller - very comfortable to hold/use - the Buttons are well placed and easy to understand - very easy to hook up to a TV or computer for viewing (I recently got Windows XP and it works like a dream with FireWire *needs to be purchased separately* and accompanying software) - the battery that comes with the camera is delivered has lasted without incident. First the tape is over! - The MPEG capabilities are great and all you have to do is connect to your computer, download and email. Very simple - Footage captured on film records sound for about 5 seconds, then the camera continues to record. :- The manual is easy to use for basic camera functions but it didn't help with download advice. You will find many reviews of the 252, but the 352 has better resolution, comes with a flash and some other extras (compare carefully). I suggest buying a UV filter for the lens to protect it (the 352 comes with a Leica Dicomar lens). ) a good camera case to protect your investment, FireWire to boot, and if you don't use Windows XP and aren't computer savvy, try connecting and downloading. My desktop is Windows 98 and I (a newbie) couldn't get it to work (too many peripherals etc I think). The last 2 sentences. 1) buy and shop online because there are cheaper prices (I challenged Revain on the price today because I got it for a lot less so keep an eye on the price in the coming days); and 2) first go to an electronics store to touch/feel/examine the device prior to purchase. Many online stores (especially those with cheaper prices) have a shorter return period. Thank you for reading!

Pros
  • Video
Cons
  • Ugly packaging