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Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder
- Sugg Retail Price: $2,195.00
- Add to cart for more details
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # PAAGHMC80
- Mfr# AGHMC80PJ
Product Highlights
- HD and SD Capture
- 1080i/p, 720p, 480i/p
- 24p, 30p, 60i
- 12x HD Lens
- Records to SDHC Cards
- Waveform Monitor
- Dual XLR Input
- Multipurpose Focus Ring
- Cine-Like Gamma Curves
- 10.6MP Stills
Remember the Essentials
Recording media is required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase recording media for this item.
The Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder adds solid-state DV recording, XLR inputs, and an ENG form factor to the high-definition imaging capability of the popular AG-HMC40. At the same time, it maintains the smaller camera's bang-for-the-buck affordability by offering a laundry list of professional features unmatched in its class. Utilizing a highly efficient AVCHD codec to record stunning images to SD and SDHC memory cards, the AG-HMC80 gives you a wealth of shooting options, formats, and frame rates to give you exactly the look your application needs--whether that means weddings, events, educational, or even indie filmmaking. With this rock-solid unit perched on your shoulder, you'll have the professional stability--and versatility--every working videographer hopes for.
- 3MOS Sensor Technology
- The progressive 3MOS image sensors record full HD images with an effective motion-picture resolution of 2.51MP. This produces full-raster HD images with high resolution and superb image quality. Because each of the three separate image sensors receives one of the three primary colors of light (red, green and blue), they render more precise images and more faithful colors than the single light-receiving 1MOS sensor.
- New HD Lens
- With a lens that features 13 elements in 10 groups, the newly developed lens is ideal for full HD recording. The new lens system uses low-dispersion glass and aspherical lenses to reduce color aberration and boost resolution. Use of a special multi-coating process dramatically reduces flare and ghosts. The result is a sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered picture with vivid colors, delicate nuances, and exceptional shading.
- 12x Optical, 10x Digital Zoom
- Even at the 490mm zoom setting (35mm lens equivalent), this advanced 12x optical zoom lens is free of image degradation. Additionally, the AG-HMC80 is equipped with a digital zoom that instantly magnifies the image by any of three fixed values: 2x, 5x or 10x. Use it together with the 12x optical zoom lens and you get super magnification equivalent to a 120x zoom, without the drop in light intensity that happens when using a lens extender.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- Because the hand-shake correction is done by actually driving the lens, there's none of the image degradation that occurs with electronic stabilization. You can capture beautiful, high-quality shots even in situations where hand shake is typically a big problem such as when zooming, shooting indoors in dim lighting, or shooting outdoors at night.
- Dynamic Range Stretch
- A gamma curve and knee slope are estimated to match the contrast of each pixel and applied in real time. When dark, bright, and intermediate shades are all contained in the same scene, this produces excellent gradation for each shade and minimizes blocked shadows and blown highlights. The images that result are enhanced by a visually wider dynamic range.
- High-quality 10.6MP Digital Stills
- The new 3MOS sensors also combine with Panasonic's proprietary Quad-Density Pixel Distribution technology to achieve a resolution that is equivalent to 4 times the normal level. The AG-HMC80 captures still images with approx. 10.6-megapixel resolution (in still image mode, 3:2 aspect ratio), which approaches the level of a high-performance digital still camera. For example, you can use it to shoot both motion and still images for a website.
- Cine-Like Gamma Curves
- Drawing on technologies developed for the VariCam HD camcorders for digital cinema, Panasonic has equipped the AG-HMC80 with advanced gamma functions that address seven different shooting scenarios and enhance your creative abilities. This includes the cine-like gamma, which produces the characteristic warm tone of film recordings.
- High Bit Rate, Pro-Use PH Mode
- The AG-HMC80 features the image-enhancing PH mode that Panasonic developed exclusively for AVCCAM camera recorders. It delivers a maximum AVCHD bit rate of 24 Mbps (average: 21 Mbps). Designed for professional image production, this mode lets you record 1080/24p and 720 progressive images in addition to 1080/60i from the AG-HMC80's 1920 x 1080 full-raster HD images.
- DV Compression Recording Supported
- In addition to AVCHD recording, the AG-HMC80 provides DV recording thanks to the application of a number of P2 HD based technologies to this shoulder-type AVCCAM. This means that you can continue using your present editing system just as it is. Images are recorded onto an SD Memory Card, for greater efficiency than conventional tape-based recording.
- Large-capacity SDHC Memory Card
- Unlike with videotape, there's no need for cueing with the SDHC memory card because recording automatically begins in a blank section of memory. Nor do you have to worry about accidentally recording over important footage. You can delete unwanted clips instantly right on the spot to preserve memory capacity. Editing after shooting is smooth and easy, with no need for digitizing. The tiny SDHC Memory Card is durable, too. Its operating range is from -13-185°F, so you can stop worrying about harsh temperatures or condensation while never having to deal with dropouts or clogged heads.
- Solid-state Recording Functions
-
- Shot Mark: To simplify shot selection, you can add a mark to the thumbnail images of each clip. You can then display and play only the clips that have shot marks.
- Pre-REC: This helps to ensure you always get the shot you want, by letting you continuously store, and subsequently record, images and sounds for three seconds before the REC button is pressed in standby mode.
- REC Check: You can check the end of the most recently recorded clip with one-touch ease.
- Last Clip Delete: Only the most recently recorded clip is deleted with this one-touch function, adding practical convenience to everyday operation. It can be assigned as a User button function if desired.
- Metadata Recording: The date, camera operator, location, title and other information can be added to the video data.
- Three DV Screen Sizes
- The AG-HMC80 has three modes for shooting and recording in DV mode. It can be selected from Side crop, Letter box or Squeeze.
- 2.7" Wide-screen EVF/LCD Monitor
- The 230,000-pixels (approx.) electronic viewfinder (EVF) lets you check even fine details in the image. Raising the viewfinder instantly switches it to a 2.7 inches wide LCD monitor, so you can easily check the result after shooting. Plus, the viewfinder tilts up or down, and slides to the right or left, to provide the optimal position for use.
- LCD Monitor Thumbnail View
- Image data is recorded as a file for each scene. Thumbnail images and file information are automatically attached to each file to enable smooth, easy confirmation and deletion of files displayed on the LCD monitor.
- Manual Focus Ring
- The manual focus ring can be used to control the iris too, by switching the Focus Ring (Focus/Iris) selector. Use it whichever way best fits the shooting situation. For example, you can set the camera to Auto Focus and use the manual focus ring to control the zooming. You can also add backlight correction or spotlight correction to the auto aperture function.
- Waveform Monitor Display
- A horizontal analysis of the input signal's brightness level can be displayed on the monitor. This lets you adjust the standard black and white levels while checking the Waveform Monitor (WFM), making it easy to get highly accurate adjustments.
- HD Focus Assist
- There are multiple focus assist functions on the AG-HMC80, including both the standard center zoom, as well as a focus bar. Additional focus assists include a face detection, which recognizes faces near the center of the screen and focuses on them.
- Interval Recording
- You can make automatic, intermittent recordings at set intervals from one frame per second to one frame every two minutes. For example, use Interval REC to record operations at a construction site, to shoot sunsets, or to capture time-lapse recordings of growing plants.
- Time Stamp
- You can insert time and date information into the video signal. This could be convenient, for example, when observing animals over an extended period, in certain academic uses, in surveillance, court reporting, legal depositions or law enforcement applications.
- Slow Shutter and Syncro Scan
- The slow shutter function uses image accumulation to allow shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. The accumulation method provides bright-color images with less noise than those captured using conventional gain-up, so you get the higher sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination. And the Synchro Scan function is ideal for capturing images on monitors.
- XLR Line/Microphone Input
- The AG-HMC80 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone and with XLR-type audio input terminals (2 channels, mic/line switchable, 48V compatible) on the rear panel. You can switch audio channels 1 and 2 separately to either line or front microphone input, which is especially useful when recording interviews or narration. In addition, an external microphone terminal (3.5mm stereo mini jack) is equipped.
- SD Downconversion
- The AG-HMC80 is equipped with HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) output, component video outputs and composite output (BNC), allowing HD images to be down-converted and output as Standard Definition images while they are being recorded or played. At the same time, a 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratio can be selected for Side crop, Letter box, or Squeeze images. Audio output (RCA terminal) enables a wide variety of applications, such as viewing on an external monitor or Standard Definition dubbing.
- HDMI Output Terminal
- The AG-HMC80 is equipped with an HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) output terminal for digital transferring of high-quality HD video and audio signals.
- USB 2.0 (Type B)
-
The standard USB terminal (Type B) allows the AG-HMC80 to connect to a Windows PC/Mac in device mode. This lets a Windows PC/Mac installed with the provided AVCCAM Viewer software to upload, copy, and write HD video files, as well as transfer them to AVCHD-compatible editing software for HD production.
DV files can also be transferred via USB 2.0, when the camera recorder is set in AVCHD mode.
- DV Terminal Provided as a Standard Feature
- The AG-HMC80 has an IEEE 1394-compliant DV (6-pin) output terminal. Simply connect it to an existing DV nonlinear editor for transmitting its DV compression stream output.
| Signal System |
1080/60i, 1080/30p (over 60i), 1080/24p (native) 720/60p, 720/30p (over 60p), 720/24p (native) HA, HG and HE mode: 1080/60i only 480/60i, 480/30p (over 60i), 480/24p (over 60i) |
| Recording Format |
AVCHD: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 DV: AVI Type 2
Recording Modes |
| Image Device | 1/4" 3MOS Sensors |
| Lens |
12x zoom, F1.8 to 2.8 (f=4.0 mm to 48 mm) 35mm equivalent (video): 40.8 mm to 490 mm (16:9) 35mm equivalent (still image): 41.3 mm to 496 mm (3:2), 40.8 mm to 490 mm (16:9), 45.0 mm to 540 mm (4:3) |
| Filter Diameter | 43mm |
| Built-in ND Filter | Automatic On/Off Interlock w/Iris |
| Minimum Focus Distance | Approx. 35.4" (0.9m) |
| Gain Selection |
Video: 0 dB to 24 dB (Variable in 1 dB step; USER button allocation; up to 34 dB using the High Gain setting) Still Image: 0 dB to 18 dB (Variable in 1 dB step) |
| White Balance | ATW, ATW LOCK, preset 3200 K, preset 5600 K, Ach or Bch |
| Shutter Speed |
Preset Video: 60i/60p mode: 1/60 sec. to 1/2000 sec. (7 steps) 30p mode: 1/30 sec. to 1/2000 sec. (8 steps) 24p mode: 1/24 sec. to 1/2000 sec. (8 steps) Still Image: 1/2 sec. to 1/2000 sec. (16 steps)
Synchro Scan
Slow |
| Minimum Illumination | 1 lux (Gain +34 dB, Slow Shutter: 1/2 sec.) |
| Digital Zoom |
2x/5x/10x
1
Please Note:Assigned to the USER button, for switching zoom levels. Only available for 1080/60i, 720/60i, 480/60i. close |
| Recording Time |
AVCHD Approx. 180 minutes (in PH mode with 1920 x 1080 pixels and using a 32GB SDHC Memory Card)
DV |
| Viewfinder | 2.7", 230,000 Pixels (Flip-up for LCD) |
| Memory Card Slot | SD, SDHC |
| Scan Matching |
Yes Different Ranges for Different Record Modes |
| Audio Compression |
Dolby Digital (2 ch) Linear PCM (Digital/2 ch) |
| Audio Sampling | 48 kHz |
| Quantization | 16 bit |
| Input and Output Connectors |
Component: BNCx3 (x1 Output) Composite: BNC (x1 Output, shared w/Component) HDMI: HDMI (x1 Output) FireWire: 6-pin IEEE 1394 (x1 Input/Output) Line/Mic: 3-pin XLR (x2 Input) Microphone: 3.5mm Stereo Mini (x1 Input) Audio Out: Pin Jack (x2 Output) Headphone: Stereo Mini Jack USB: USB 2.0 Camera Remote: Super Mini Jack for Zoom, Mini Jack for Focus and Iris |
| Power Requirements |
7.2VDC (with Battery) 7.3VDC (with AC Adapter) |
| Power Consumption | 11W |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 10.5 x 9.2 x 18" (26.7 mm × 23.3 mm × 45.8 cm) |
| Weight |
7.06 lbs (3.2kg) 7.3 lbs (3.3kg) with battery |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 63 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Great picture quality (42)
- Easy to use (38)
- Zoom range/performance (38)
- Image stabilization (32)
- Great sound (24)
Cons
- Poor in low light (24)
- Limited zoom (6)
Best Uses
- Documentaries (34)
- Weddings (34)
- HD shooting (31)
- Movies/short films (22)
- Home movies (18)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro videographer (25), Semi-pro (18), Business owner (4)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (48), Yes (3)
Most Liked Positive Review
Beautiful video, great for the price
I am just getting started with this camera and expect to learn much more as I use it. I am trained as a professional cinematographer and video shooter/editor and spent most of the '...Read complete review
I am just getting started with this camera and expect to learn much more as I use it. I am trained as a professional cinematographer and video shooter/editor and spent most of the '80s with an Ikegami on my shoulder, doing mostly news/documentary work. I have always owned at least one pro video camera for the last 30 years and although I'm in a different field (education and computers) now, still want to maintain a quality shooting and editing capability for community projects and the occasional instructional video I am asked to help on. I am considering getting back into the business on a more serious level in the next couple of years and wanted to gain some experience with HD.
For the past few years I've owned a pair of JVC DV5000 cameras and am most comfortable with a shoulder-mount, metal-bodied camera with interchangeable broadcast-type lenses. This review is written from the perspective of moving "down" from that type of camera to this much lighter-duty "prosumer" model. I had considered spending $10K or so on a higher end Panasonic or Sony but was put off by the size, weight and buying the expensive pro-grade P2 or SxS memory cards. As an introduction to solid state and SD shooting, the much cheaper AG-HMC80 seemed like a good way to go without spending a lot of money right at first.
For the most part, I'm satisfied. The shoulder-mount design is a huge plus for my style of shooting, but it looks at home on my Sachtler as well. The XLR audio inputs and manual audio level controls, with meters in the viewfinder, were absolutely essential to me too. The camera does not balance as well on my shoulder as some of my older pro cameras, but it's much lighter overall, so this is not a huge issue. If I can find a way to hang my heavy Anton-Bauer batteries on the back I'm sure it will feel a little better.
The plastic construction doesn't inspire as much confidence as my previous cameras, but it's light and cheap. I knew what I was getting going in and can't complain. I am getting older, and steadily shouldering a 15+ pound pro rig isn't as easy for me as it used to be. The weight, cost and construction will allow me to take risks, go places and get more daring shots with this camera than I would probably attempt with a much more expensive machine.
The lens is a mixed bag. I am disappointed that it is slow and doesn't go very wide, but I like the feel of the zoom and focus controls, and auto-focus works well 99% of the time. I'm planning to try the wide-angle adapter but regret having to hang more glass in front of the lens and possibly degrade the image quality. The image stabilization is slightly helpful but not as effective as in my Canon still camera lenses. And it must definitely be turned off when working on a tripod, which caught me by surprise a few times at first.
The basic video quality is superb. Nothing to complain about, and there are enough modes and controls to keep me experimenting with the look of my work for awhile yet. Maintenance is a far cry from the '80s when I used to spend an hour with the covers off my Ikegamis making adjustments for every hour of footage I could shoot.
Low-light performance is disappointing, clearly the weakest feature of this camera. The combination of small sensors and a slow-ish lens combine to give it almost no advantage over the old 2/3" tube cameras I had back in 1982.
This is my first experience with an LCD viewfinder, which I still find grainy and harsh looking compared to a CRT. I will probably get more used to it but find it difficult to use for tracking small objects at a distance. I would prefer a separate status display screen (as on my JVCs) for metering, exposure, battery condition and the like to get a less cluttered viewfinder display, but I recognize that would cost more.
The input and output options are excellent. Audio is just fine (I do a lot of live music recording), but it would be nice to have an XLR up front for a top-mounted microphone. I appreciate the two accessory shoes for use with wireless receivers, lights, etc. For my money they could have left off the built-in mics which just take up space for me. I would never consider using them.
One oddity is that due to the big LCD viewfinder, the camera is a lot wider than others in its class, and therefore an uncomfortable fit for the standard camera bags I have from Kata and Porta-Brace. I'm still looking for the perfect case to carry it in.
Don't take these minor criticisms as anything too harsh. I think this camera is a game-changer for event videographers, small cable and educational stations, and low-end commercial shooters. I have been watching the market for several years waiting for a camera that records good quality HD on consumer-type memory cards, has a shoulder-mount configuration, and could work with pro sound gear. The HMC80 is the first I've seen (Sony has nothing close yet) that satisfied all my basic requirements and was still half or a third of the price I expected. It's a great way to get started in HD and solid-state workflow, and I'm sure they'll sell a boatload.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Decent Entry Level Camera w/ Caveats
I may currently work within a narrow usage band, legal videography, but I have been shooting and editing video since 1992. I love all the new HD digital features especially the spectre of solid...Read complete review
I may currently work within a narrow usage band, legal videography, but I have been shooting and editing video since 1992. I love all the new HD digital features especially the spectre of solid state recording and the HMC-80 might be a good camera to learn shooting techniques due to its long list of features. The AVCHD codec is definitely a breakthrough compared with older schemes.
The connectivity of this camera is impressive: the component/composite BNC connectors are great, XLR audio a must, HDMI output is handy and the built in cable holds are thoughtful. I appreciate the availability of all the gamma curves, automatic white balance tracking and knee adjustments. Also the camera is light weight and should provide for less arm/wrist strain. Some may consider this "cheap" but the lack of moving parts (save lens elements) promotes less mass.
So far, though, my legacy SVHS 3 chip CCDs camera still outperforms the HMC-80! Granted I still shoot in SD, but I am decidedly not impressed with the low-light performance! This has been my biggest concern to date. With external lights and a reasonably bright conference room I still have to use at least 12 dB of gain to get a decent image (the iris is wide open). The smallish CMOS sensor is probably to blame for this. I do not have the option to bring in 2000 watt theatre lights into the conference rooms in which I work. If you do have access to such lights, then you might like this camera.
I also do not like the automatic neutral density filter (I may have my reasons to enable the filter or limit its effect).
Also I have been having errors with my 32 GB SDHC cards (a clicking audio sound is heard on the audio channels after a "check card" error). I blame the cheap SDHC cards that my company bought (not Panasonic, necessarily) and this issue is exacerbated by the HMC-80's single SDHC slot. I won't name names but do not skimp on memory cards! Do your research! P2 cards may be expense but they are close to military grade as far as durability goes. Losing a deposition due to memory card failure is purely unacceptable. Thankfully the HMC-80 has numerous output connectors facilitating easy recording to an external device as a backup/primary media.
Again the price point is attractive in some ways but you get what you pay for and will be limited by the the sensor. Also AVCHD editing can be tricky -- you need some horsepower to push through these files. I am tempted that if I were to do it over -- I would shell out another 1000 bucks and a get a bigger sensor with better low light processing and a second SDHC (or SDXC) slot.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 63 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
Love the camera. Out of the box straight to the shoulder. It feels great and has a great quality image. But, be prepared to get some lights. The camera will need extra light for indoor shooting.
Other than that I would by it again.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
- Poor Sound
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Low Light With Help
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I was able to get good results from the beginning and with that price it was a very good deal. Manual operations required for best results. Know first the camera, go for manual because in auto is not that good at moving subjects.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
usedv for church functions..its a great product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- There Are No Cons For Us
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
We are using this camera in a professional video atmosphere. It has quickly proven to be more than we expected. Even though our perception was high for the product. It has exceeded all expectations. The salesman proved to be very wise in his recomendation of this product. Judging from our needs and budget. Thanks B&H!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
Easy to use and very argonomic
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I use this camera for corporate and consumer videos. This camera has so many professional features it's unbelievable! It's crazy that this camera is priced around [$]. Ten years ago I shot news for both the local Fox and NBC affiliates. Those cameras were priced around [$] and the image clarity of the AG-HMC80P looks every bit as good as those news cameras. I really like having professional audio inputs and having manuel control of the audio is GREAT! Six white balance settings: Auto... Auto Lock... pre-set 3200k... pre-set 5600k and two manuel white balance settings, A channel and B channel used for mix light situations.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I just finished shooting a program it the studio with this camera it worked great. I shot a music video earlier this week in the feild the footage is fantastic. The client loved it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Panasonic AG-HMC 40
Pros
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I bought this camera from B&H in February and have used it for about 25 weddings so far, I learned quickly that you have to light up the wedding venue like a TV studio to get the proper exposure, So far I have not had any complaints about the two 1000wt Lowel DP's bouncing off silver umbrellas, or the 100 wt camera light with 4 cell battery belt I feel like I'm back in the early 80's (as far as the cameras sensitivity). The rest of the camera is great it delivers great images & great sound, After using tape for years the SDHC cards are a joy.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I bought this camera to get back to making films after 30 years of doing other stuff , so far I'm very impressed , the ability to have a tape less work flow and go directly from camera to my editing system is great. The video produced is clean , the colors fantastic. This is my first Hi Def camera and the hi def pictures are great. Just be sure you got enough light as it's not a low light camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I shoot and edit infomercials and documentaries and even though I've only had this camera for a week I've shot over 10 hours of footage with it and it is great. Good quality both audio and video. The XLR audio inputs, SDHC record and easy to access options make this camera a great option for any pro video project that had a limited budget.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
Terrific images, lots of manual controls to dial in exactly what you are looking for in a video. For the price and features, it's hard to see how you can go wrong with this camera!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Awesome viewfinder
- Balance is OK
- Easy access to controls
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Lens ring feels cheap
- Limited audio controls
- Poor In Low Light
- Viewfinder is hard wired
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I have a small video production company, and also do a lot of local news video for our in town newspaper website. I bought this camera because my Canon XH-A1 neded servicing, and I wanted to move towads solid state, (at least for news videos). I do miss some of the features from my XH-A1, and especially the Canon 20x lens with its individual Focus, Zoom and Iris rings. But I am really learning to like this camera. The best thing I like other than the tapeless work flow is the viewfinder, (HUGE). I like the shoulder mount version as it has most of the manual contols on the outside of the camera body, and not buried within a menu somewhere. Plus, it looks professional.
I covered a local soldier returning home, and was elbow to elbow with the local Big 3 TV news guys. They were all asking me about the camera, which was pretty cool. Of course, they were all yielding camera's costing many times what this one does.
Bottom line, I am still learning the camera, but am happy so far. As always, I do plenty of research before spending my $$$. So the camera is pretty much what I was expecting, (if not more). And there is never a question about the B&H service.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- Extra battery(s), Lens UV protector, External shotgun mic
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
This was my first HD cam and I am really pleased. Functions are well laid out and the downloads to my computer are a snap. The only thing I do not like is the very small screen. It really makes it difficult to track focus, even with the focus assist, which is a great feature. I use a 7" HiDef monitor with the HDMI input and that fixes the problem. Other than the small screen, I like everything about this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I was in the market for another HMC-150 but could not wait until late June of this year for it to become available again so I switched gears and found the HMC-80. I have heard a thousand times that the 3MOS sensor is poor in low light, it is.. However, some make it sound like CCD sensors are better by leaps and bounds... there not. Marginally at best. I have owned the HMC-80 for a little over a month and have been pleasantly surprised by what I would consider a fantastic, easy to use professional camcorder. If your looking for a great camera with all of the bells and whistles that the big boys offer for a great price, you could do far worse than this. I will have a hard time when the time comes deciding on whether or not to go with another 80 or 150. Amazing clarity, great colors and with the ability to capture sound via XLR, good job Panasonic!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Similar:
- Panasonic AG HMC-150
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by Chris33102
(3 of 3 customers found this review helpful)
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Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Single SDHC Card Slot
Best Uses
- Corporate Videos
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
- TV Commercials
- Website Content
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
After spending an entire year reviewing HD video cameras, I finally decided to purchase the AG-HMC80, and I was NOT disappointed! Easy to operate, high quality video and the option to shoot & record in SD. Add the bonus of hard wiring for direct recording for live events and you have a winning combination. The only thing that I have yet to do is test it's performance in low light situations, but since I shoot almost entirely on set or on location, this will not be a problem.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I use this nice camera in weddings videos, and a lot events
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Depositions
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Legal Videography
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I am a paralegal with a video background. As soon as I saw that I could mix both fields together I did. I use this camera for Day In The Life documentary video, testimonials and weddings, and it is very comfortable to use.
First time using a Shouler-Mount and it was wonderful, it provided more stability to my footage. In the past I used was a Canon GL2, which is a good camera, but I am glad I made the switch to Panasonic.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
Cons
- Limited Zoom
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
This camera is right on par with the price. I am a professional news videographer who is used to a sturdy quality camera. This camera has a few of the perks I am used to as far as manual controls although I wouldn't mind a few more. I haven't had it long so I need to see the full capability of the iris and the gain. As many prosumer cameras of the time be prepared to equip the cam with a good light. If you spend the money on an HD camera spend a little more on a light or light kit to make sure the video looks good. Very grainy without good lighting conditions. I also wish there was a seperate control for the macro. This camera uses the focus ring and you need to spin it quite far before the macro feature kicks in. I will be using this camera to shoot everything from commercials to sports and so far it is user friendly ( if in auto mode) And works flawlessly with Adobe CS4 on my 2009 MacBook Pro. The construction could also be a little more durable. I feel I need to be very delicate when using this product. I will post another review after using the camera more and utilizing more of the features. So far I am pleased with what I got straight out of the box and would recommend this camera for anyone who is good at taking care of thier gear. It doesn't seem to be designed to be banged around. Get a good bag and a jacket for it. Overall very pleased but mostly because I knew what I would get for the price. Nothing outstanding but so far a good reliable camera with only one problem to troubleshoot. I had an error on the viewfinder with a problem regarding a clip being written to the SDHC card. I pushed record and the error popped up. If it was something important I would have totally missed it and anything for 3 mins after that as I had to pop the card and regroup.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
- Recommended:
- External Mic
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
I own a video production company and we just started using the HMC80.
It's light enough to where you can use it for a while without getting sore. The controls are pretty simple. It come with a nice remote that helps when I do solo projects. Great picture, good sound quality, and again great picture!! I love this camera!! Wish the camera handled better in the dark bit I hardly ever shoot things that stents well lit.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Panasonic AG-HMC80 3MOS AVCCAM HD Shoulder-Mount Camcorder:
Love it. It is as close to a Sony DSR-570 your going to get, without having to pay thousands to get it. All the "bells" and "whistles" are just like the Sony DSR-570; with just some of them not added. But over all a second best thing.
Low light usage is o.k., nothing to bad. Would not recommend to someone just starting out in using cameras due to the complexities of use. Bought this camera for the manual focus ring abilities and 24p HD as well. Built in microphone works really good for ambient sound, so I suggest lapels a must for interviews and such.
Bottom Line Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
Images shared by TriSpirit Productions
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
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Media
Show more >Required item: Recording media is not included. A memory card is required to record your footage.
- Price: $43.74
- Instant Savings: -$3.79 Offer ends MAY 25 '13
- You Pay: $39.95
Batteries & Power Adapters
Show more >Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $129.95
- Price: $69.95
Lenses & Lens Adapters
Show more >Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.
- Price: $159.95
- Price: $92.50
Microphones & Audio Adapters
Show more >Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.
- Price: $199.00
Bags & Cases
Show more >Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.
- Price: $159.95
Tripod, Sliders, Dollies, & Cranes
Show more >Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.
- Price: $539.95
Matte Boxes & Shades
Control the light entering your camcorder.
- Price: $435.95
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