Panasonic AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder
- Sugg Retail Price: $1,999.00
- Add to cart for more details
- Free Shipping (USA)
- In Stock
- B&H # PAAGAC90
- Mfr# AG-AC90PJ
Product Highlights
- Three 1/4.7" Full HD 2.19MP MOS Sensors
- Fixed Lens with f/1.5 and 12x Zoom Ratio
- Native 1920x1080 60p, 60i, 30p and 24p
- Nano Surface Lens Coating Reduces Flare
- Dual SD Memory Card Slots
- Five-Axis OIS Improves Handheld Shooting
- Pixel Shifting Technology
- Intelligent 25x Digital Zoom Function
- AVCCAM HD Recording Modes
- Two-Channel XLR Audio Inputs
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-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder features 1/4.7" 3MOS sensors, with 2.19MP each, to capture Full HD 1920x1080 resolution video. Variable frame rates record HD video at 60p, 60i, 30p, and 24p. The camera's fixed lens has a 12x zoom ratio, up to f/1.5 brightness, a 35mm equivalent of 29.8-357.6mm and manual control rings for focus, zoom and iris. In addition, Nano Surface Coating works to reduce ghosting and flare.
The AG-AC90 has two SD card slots for expanded memory or simultaneous recording to both cards for an instant back-up. A five-axis image stabilizer improves stabilization for handheld shooting, and 4x pixel shifting technology helps to create a sharper image. An Intelligent 25x digital zoom function makes automatic adjustments of edge, gradation and detail.
Professional AVCCAM HD recording modes include PS mode, which records 1080/60p at 28 Mbps. Additionally, PH mode averages 21-24 Mbps, and HA mode clocks in at approximately 17 Mbps. Finally, for extended recording times, HE mode uses approximately 6 Mbps. The AG-AC90 is compatible with Panasonic's ultra high-speed UHS-1 series of memory cards, as well as SDXC and SDHC cards.
In addition to the built-in microphone, two XLR audio inputs provide an interface for professional grade, external microphones. Audio Channel 1 and Channel 2 feature individual level controls and input selection.
- 1/4.7" Full HD 2.19MP MOS Sensors
- Three 1/4.7" sized MOS sensors - a configuration Panasonic calls 3MOS - featuring 2.19MP each. These sensors capture native Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution video.
- Fixed Lens with 12x Zoom Ratio
- The camera's fixed lens features up to f/1.5 brightness and produces an angle-of-view equal to 29.8-357.6mm on 35mm format. Nano Surface lens coating reduces ghosting and flare, and three manual control rings facilitate adjustments for focus, zoom and iris.
- Variable Frame Rates
- The AG-AC90 can record 1080 resolution at 60p, 60i, 30p and 24p; in addition to standard definition 480/60i in 60 Hz.
- Dual SD Memory Card Slots
- Two media card slots accept SD memory cards for expanded memory or simultaneous recording to both cards for an instant back-up. The AG-AC90 is compatible with Panasonic's ultra high-speed UHS-1 series of memory cards, as well as SDXC and SDHC cards.
- Five-Axis OIS and Pixel Shifting
- Five-Axis optical image stabilization makes for smoother handheld videos, and pixel shifting helps to create a sharper image.
- Intelligent 25x Digital Zoom Function
- An intelligent digital zoom achieves up to 25x seamless zooming. The digital zoom function is also available in 2, 5, and 10x zoom.
- AVCCAM HD Recording Modes
- The AG-AC90 utilizes the AVCHD format. Professional recording modes include PS mode (1080/60p at 28 Mbps), PH mode (21-24 Mbps), HA mode (approx. 17 Mbps) and HE mode (approx. 6 Mbps).
- 3MP Still Photographs
- 3MP still photographs can also be captured during video recording.
- Versatile Recording Functions
- Interval Recording captures one frame at a time in set intervals (1 sec, 10 sec, 30 sec, 1 min, 2 min). Pre Record prevents missed opportunities by storing about 3 seconds of video and audio data in temporary memory prior to pressing the Rec button. Record Check lets you check the end of the most recently recorded clip with one-touch ease, and Last Clip Delete provides one-touch delete of the most recently recorded clip.
- XLR Input and Other Professional Audio Features
- In addition to a built-in 5.1-channel surround sound mic, the AG-AC90 features 2-channel XLR audio input terminals for external mic use. Input (Mic/Line) can be selected for CH1/CH2 independently, and a 48 V phantom power supply (ON/OFF) and level control are provided.
- Professional Interfaces and Design
- An HDMI output supports digital output of video and audio signals to a wide variety of HD devices. Other connections include an AV Multi output for analog video and audio, an analog component video (component terminal), analog composite video (pin jack), and analog audio (L/R pin jacks) through the bundled cable. USB 2.0 connectivity aids users in transferring files to a PC, and remote terminals enable remote operation of iris, focus, zoom and Rec Start/Stop functions.
| Sensor | |
|---|---|
| Sensor Type | MOS (x3, with backside illumination) |
| Sensor Size | 1/4.7" |
| Sensor Resolution | 2.19 MP (2,190,00 effective pixels) |
| Minimum Illumination | Approx. 3 lx (iA mode, auto slow shutter ON) |
| Lens | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 2.84 - 34.1 mm |
| 35mm Equivalent Focal Length | 29.8 - 357.6 mm |
| Zoom Ratio |
12x optical 25x i.Zoom 2x,5x,10x digital zoom |
| Aperture | Max: f/1.5 |
| Optical Image Stabilization | 5-Axis Hybrid OIS |
| Lens Coating | Nano Surface Coating |
| Control Rings | x3 (focus, zoom, iris) |
| Filter Thread | 49 mm |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (hybrid optical image stabilizer, active mode) |
| Recording Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Signal System | NTSC (60 Hz) |
| Video Format | AVCHD version 2.0 compliant, AVCHD Progressive |
| Compression |
Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Audio: Dolby Digital (5.1ch/2 ch) Still Picture: JPEG (based on Exif 2.2 standard) |
| Frame Rates |
HD 1080: 60p, 60i, 30p, 24p SD 480: 60i |
| Recording Modes |
PS mode: approx. 28 Mbps (60p only) PH mode: approx. 21-24 Mbps HA mode: approx. 17 Mbps HE mode: approx. 6 Mbps |
| Shutter Speed |
60i/60p/30p: 1/30 to 1/2000 (auto slow shutter ON), 1/60 to 1/2000 (auto slow shutter OFF) Note: at motion picture recording, manual mode |
| Audio Channels | CH1, CH2 |
| Audio Format | Dolby Digital |
| Still Capture | 3 MP still photographs (can be captured during video recording) |
| Interface | |
|---|---|
| Recording Media | SD Card Slot (x2, compatible with UHS-1 and SDXC/SDHC/SD memory cards) |
| Input/Outputs |
HDMI output (1080p/1080i/480p) AV Multi output (D-connector, composite video and audio 2 channel) USB connector 2.5mm remote terminal for zoom and REC START/STOP 3.5mm remote terminal for iris and focus XLR audio input (x2, MIC/LINE/+48V selectable) |
| General Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Displays |
Monitor: 3.5" LCD with 1,152 K dot resolution (rotates 270°)
Viewfinder: 0.24" LCOS color EVF with 263 K dot resolution Functions: focus assist, zebra, color bar |
| Supply Voltage |
DC 12V (when the AC adaptor is used) DC 7.2V (when the battery is used) |
| Power Consumption | 12.9 W |
| Operating Temperature | 32 ~ 104° F (0 ~ 40° C) |
| Operating Humidity | 10 - 80% (no condensation) |
| Dimensions | 6.31 x 7.69 x 13.06" (160 x 195 x 350 mm) |
| Weight |
Main unit only: approx. 3.3 lb (1.50 kg) With battery and an SD card: approx. 3.9 lb (1.78 kg) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 38 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
92%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Ease of use (4)
- Easy to use (3)
- OIS (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (13)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Beginner Budget Camera
This is a camera I was given after my Canon Vixia HF S100 was stolen out of a friend's car while visiting them out of my home state. I was very happy to see this...Read complete review
This is a camera I was given after my Canon Vixia HF S100 was stolen out of a friend's car while visiting them out of my home state. I was very happy to see this product on the market as it's one with 3 ring lens controls for the price range. I love the features of this camera and the image quality however there are some annoying flaws such as the following. The shotgun mic mount only fits the larger diameter shotgun mics which cost a lot. I find the lens control rings are quite stiff making it hard to use them. I'm hoping they loosen up a little with use. The LCD pulls out but you really have to pull hard on it to lock it in the out position making me feel like I would break it... The buttons on the side offer great features but all are similar in size and shape so it's easy to mix them up to operate in dark places and such. Lastly, the upper zoom control can be set to 3 speeds but only through the on screen touch menu which is laid out well but still slow and annoying. A switch up on the top handle would have been a better choice. I think a faster zoom servo would have been nice too however it's not as slow as my other cameras and so I'm not marking it down on that.
Overall, it's a fantastic camera and has great features for the price and I'd recommend it to anyone.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
the price is right.
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
Read complete review
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
But, is cheap, has XLR inputs, record in 2 SD at the same time...
It is not so magic, but the price is right.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 38 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- OIS
Cons
- Zoom
Best Uses
- Videography
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The AG-AC90 delivered everything it promised. I took a chance by not phyically seeing or holding the product, but my research paid off, and it only took 4 days to ship to my home in Canada.
I found the biggest positives are.. 1. Optical image stablization- almost steadycam-esk look. Video quality- even good in low light (lower shutter speed for more light if needed). 3. Manual ease- almost all the highly used manual controls are buttons on the side of the camera with exception to shutter ( which is on the touch screen). White Balace, battary life, digital recording, LCD screen also good.
Bonus! Wasn't expecting Barry Green's book and CD, and they really help explain the small details of the camera.
Be aware of ... 1. Deep depth of field- tough to get background out of focus in relation to your subject due to the small sensor. 2. Sticky zooms- tough to land your zooms softly, and to gradually slow down or speed up your zooms.
Overall though I am very happy with my purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Ease of Use
- Quality Components
Cons
- Manual focus
Best Uses
- Professional Video
- Prosumer
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
We use this product for our church videos.The camera quality is great, and the functions are easy to use......
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I feels good in the hand. All controls are easy to get to with the touch of a finger. Love the way the LED Screen just pops out and hide away. Light weight and clear on recording.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Really like this camera, prefer it over the hmc40 we were using. We use it to stream video in our church
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
But, is cheap, has XLR inputs, record in 2 SD at the same time...
It is not so magic, but the price is right.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Clear image
- Decent Lowlight
- Decent price
- Ease of Use
- Manual Focuszoomiris
- Sensitive Zoom Button
- Uses Sdhc Instead Of Tape
Cons
- Autoexposure Too
- Autofocus Could Improve
Best Uses
- concerts
- Special events
- Weddings
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I spent about 3 months researching a few different cameras in this price range and I narrowed it down to this one from all the reviews, footage and features I saw. I do all kinds of video work but have been only using a dslr. i needed a regular video camera for some of the longer events I have to film since dslr's have some limitations. I've used it for 3 concerts recently and i've liked the ease of use so far. ONe main point that sold me on this camera was the fact that it records on sdhc cards, I had no interests in going back to having to transfer minidv tapes. I also like that it has 3 manual rings for focus, zoom, and iris. I had read a number of reviews where people say their rings were stiff but mines are very smooth so I'm happy about that. In my few times using it i realized I prefer using a mix of autofocus and manual focus. Sometimes autofocus loses it if the lighting suddenly goes dark. As far as exposure, i prefer doing it manual because the autoexposure takes the iris much higher than i'd like it to go which can cause grainy video. Otherwise, its decent in low light and very easy to use. I look forward to continuing to learn more about its features so i can take full advantage of it. I can definitely recommend this camera to anyone doing wedding videography or filming concerts.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- 3 Rings Focus-zoom-iris
- Dual Flash Memory Cards
- Focus Assist
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Videos
- Documentary
- Independent films
- Run and Gun
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
So far this camera has produced excellent results. I have used a Panasonic DVX100 (standard Def.) camcorder for years. I bought this because I needed a HD camcorder. This is the HD equivalent to the DVX100. Some nice features are Focus Assist - red surrounds the object when it's in focus - really helps. Also, you have 3 rings to work with (focus, zoom, iris). The sensors are small but with new technology I don't see it has a huge negative.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I think this camera out performs the price point. The picture quality is great and you will not break the bank. I think this camera will help me take my videography to the next level.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Crisp image
- High Value
- Little noise in low light
- Low Price
- OIS
- Smooth Gain Adjestments
Cons
- Small Sensors
Best Uses
- Documentary
- Live Events
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I bought this camera to film stage performances. When I told the BH staff what I wanted to use this camera for, they said it would not handle low light situations well enough and told me to not buy it and save my money for a larger sensor camera. I decided to go against their advice, and I am glad I did. Even though this camera has tiny sensors, the fact that they are back side illuminated seems to really help low light performance. Even with the gain turned all the way to 30db, the picture is still use able, and their is hardly any noise up until 20db. Manual rings are nice, and I like how the gain in iterated into the iris ring for a smooth gain adjustments. The clarity of picture is also quite stunning.I am happy with my purchase, and feel I will get a lot of good use with this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great image clarity
- Great image quality
- Great Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
- Event video
- Studio Video
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The panasonic AG-AC90PJ I bought went dead on me at an event I was covering. Initially I thought the battery is dead but had the same issue after replacing the battery. The camera won't just power.
It was about a day past the return date but B&H was nice enough to replace the camera for me.
The replacement have no issues so far and am loving this camera. The footage is so good am thinking of buying a second panasonic AG-AC90PJ for backup. I also like the image stabilization, its super good.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Professional use.
Good in low light.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Im a videographer,I purchased this camcorder when it first came out, I was not sure about it, but after I got it, I was amazed about the qulity of my videos, it is so sharp and clear, it is almost cero noise in low light, and the 3 rings on the lense makes it so valuable, also the weight is so light and with the factory battery you can shoot for 5 hrs straight Im so pleased with this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Image
- Great In Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
- Low light
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I recently got this to record videos and it is awesome! Love the features that you can use (i.e. 3 ring adjustment for zoom, iris and focus). Also was very surprised (in a good way) with the way the audio came out. The built in camera audio is great. Used it to film a Bar-Mitzvah party and does great in low light. Hope this review helps!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Battery Life
- Ease of Use
- Low light
Cons
Best Uses
- Anything
- Hunting
- Outdoors
- Weddings
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I will be using the camera mostly for filming hunting and other outdoor activities. So far I have only been able to do minimal testing, but it seems to have great low light imagry. Very clear up at 20 db. Great for full manual control and cant beat the price range.
- Recommended:
- Azden SGM PDII Shotgun Mic, Tiffen Filter Kit, Mulitiple SDHC or SDXC Cards
Pros
- Easy to use
- Great image quality
- Light Weight
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports Productions
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I use this camera primarily for sports related video. Easy set-up, great image quality and integrates perfectly with FCP. Extremely lightweight, has many features you would find in a far more expensive camera (XLR inputs!)
Pros
- Battery Life
- Design
- Quality
- value
- Wide lens
Cons
Best Uses
- General shooting
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Out of the box I feel like I made a good investment and saved some cash. The design is much improved over Panasonic's first gen pro AVCCAM's. Really like the fact you can tuck away the LCD screen and that it located at the front end of the camera; it is perfectly located and keeps you from going cross-eyed when using on a shoulder mount support. Still looking forward to seeing how it handles unfavorable lighting situations like weddings in dimly lit churches/chapels. Backup recording when using 2 SD cards will take away fear of card failure I hope; never had a card failure, knock on wood. So that's about it, can't wait to shoot my next event!
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This is a great camera! I chose the AG-AC90 to upgrade my Panasonic HDC-HS100, which I also really love. The two main things I was looking for with the upgrade were 1) better low-light performance, and 2) something a little bigger that would be easier to hold still while shooting (the HS100 is pretty darn small . . .).
The AC90 does very well in low light; when I did a head-to-head test, it completely blew the HS100 out of the water. I shot my kitchen at night lit by only a 40W bulb over the sink. In addition to picking up areas / things that couldn't even be seen with the HS100, the AC90 image was much clearer pretty much everywhere. Yes, they are only 1/4.7" sensors, but whatever image processing, etc. the AC90 is doing more than compensates. The gain on this camera is very clean, and has very good resolution. (The HS100 took kind of huge steps when the gain was adjusted, so you really couldn't adjust gain while recording without it looking completely ridiculous.)
The 3 manual rings (focus, zoom, and iris) are great, and I really like having the extra real-estate on the side of the camera for button access without having to open up an LCD screen. Despite what many have said, I don't think the LCD screen (which comes out of the front of the top handle) feels flimsy. Sure, I wouldn't hold the LCD screen and swing the camera around above my head, but under normal use I'm not losing any sleep worrying that the LCD is going to break off.
The battery seems to last forever, but I hate having only one battery, so picked up a spare anyway. I also got a Kata Multipro-120-PL backpack to carry the AC90 around. It's technically made for DSLRs, not video cameras, and so getting the AC90 in there is a little snug. But, I really wanted a backpack that could make it onto an airplane, so went with the 120-PL. I do not have a shotgun mic yet, and so have removed the mic holder from the AC90; once I add those, though, I may need to get a little creative to fit everything in the bag . . .
The only things I don't care for are 1) the top handle zoom lever is a bit noisy, 2) the max zoom speed is only settable for the top handle zoom lever; the speed of the "normal" zoom lever just depends on how hard you press on the rocker (but, the rocker is nice and big, so it's not that difficult to control zoom speed), and 3) I'm pretty sure you cannot copy clips from one SD card to another with the camera. The HS100 let you do that, which was a nice way to back stuff up when traveling without needing a laptop or external HDDs.
Those are really the only "cons" I have, and none of them are that big of a deal. This is a great camera, and I would definitely recommend it!
Pros
- Ease of Use
- Great picture
- Manual Rings Work Well
- Nice Hard Buttons
Cons
- Saves Files In 4gb Files
Best Uses
- Confences All I Do
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This was my first "real" camera for doing conferences at work. Having the XLR inputs really saves time. I no longer have to use a clapper board and synch. The video quality is good but haven't truely tested it in real life low light. The manual rings feel perfect. I haven't used many cameras. Manual white balance is easy to do but I wish there were more adjustments possible. This camera is well balanced to hold and the stabilizer works well. The outside hard buttons are quick to learn and allow you to customize just how manual the camera operates with no surprises. Several programmable on screen buttons are also available. The intelligent auto is nice but I still perfer manual. Lastly the videos are saved in about 4GB size chunks which have to be strung together in post. I really don't like this for my kind of shoot however overall you can't beat this camera in quaility and ease of use at this price. I would highly recommened it and buy another if I needed a B cam
Pros
- 1080 60p
- Dual Sd Recording
- Great Image Stabilization
- Nice image
- Three Control Rings
Cons
- Fragile Lcd
- Small Chips
- Uneven Weight Balance
Best Uses
- Professional Video
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This camera really stands out in its price category. The main thing that differentiates it from the others in the same price range is that it has three control rings (focus, zoom, iris). The second thing that is outstanding about it is the image stabilization. As for cons compared to other cameras in the price range, I wish it used slightly bigger chips. Panasonic could have given us at least 1/4" chips. Also, I'm not entirely confident in the durability of the flip out LCD. You have to pull it out and push it back into its housing, and it only rotates around one axis, so it just generally feels fragile as if it needs to be babied. Lastly, the weight distribution feels a bit weird - it seems front-heavy and made my hand start to hurt after a while of handholding it. Still, I think the pros outweigh the cons, especially if the pros are features that you're looking for that like I mentioned cannot be found in other similarly-priced cameras.
Pros
- Easy menu
- Light wieght
- Totall Manual Control
Cons
- Cold Shoe Is In Bad Spot
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
got this about 2 weeks ago been filming a lot of skateing with it and i love it. picture is way better than i expected. and the control is awesome. the only complaint is that its a little from heavy with a fisheye but i think if i get the biggest battery you offer it will balance it out. i cant fit my light on the cold shoe either the xlr port is too tall and blocks it so i need a extenter
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 38 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
92%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Ease of use (4)
- Easy to use (3)
- OIS (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Weddings (5)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (13)
Most Liked Positive Review
Great Beginner Budget Camera
This is a camera I was given after my Canon Vixia HF S100 was stolen out of a friend's car while visiting them out of my home state. I was very happy to see this...Read complete review
This is a camera I was given after my Canon Vixia HF S100 was stolen out of a friend's car while visiting them out of my home state. I was very happy to see this product on the market as it's one with 3 ring lens controls for the price range. I love the features of this camera and the image quality however there are some annoying flaws such as the following. The shotgun mic mount only fits the larger diameter shotgun mics which cost a lot. I find the lens control rings are quite stiff making it hard to use them. I'm hoping they loosen up a little with use. The LCD pulls out but you really have to pull hard on it to lock it in the out position making me feel like I would break it... The buttons on the side offer great features but all are similar in size and shape so it's easy to mix them up to operate in dark places and such. Lastly, the upper zoom control can be set to 3 speeds but only through the on screen touch menu which is laid out well but still slow and annoying. A switch up on the top handle would have been a better choice. I think a faster zoom servo would have been nice too however it's not as slow as my other cameras and so I'm not marking it down on that.
Overall, it's a fantastic camera and has great features for the price and I'd recommend it to anyone.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
the price is right.
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
Read complete review
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
But, is cheap, has XLR inputs, record in 2 SD at the same time...
It is not so magic, but the price is right.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 38 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- OIS
Cons
- Zoom
Best Uses
- Videography
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The AG-AC90 delivered everything it promised. I took a chance by not phyically seeing or holding the product, but my research paid off, and it only took 4 days to ship to my home in Canada.
I found the biggest positives are.. 1. Optical image stablization- almost steadycam-esk look. Video quality- even good in low light (lower shutter speed for more light if needed). 3. Manual ease- almost all the highly used manual controls are buttons on the side of the camera with exception to shutter ( which is on the touch screen). White Balace, battary life, digital recording, LCD screen also good.
Bonus! Wasn't expecting Barry Green's book and CD, and they really help explain the small details of the camera.
Be aware of ... 1. Deep depth of field- tough to get background out of focus in relation to your subject due to the small sensor. 2. Sticky zooms- tough to land your zooms softly, and to gradually slow down or speed up your zooms.
Overall though I am very happy with my purchase.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Ease of Use
- Quality Components
Cons
- Manual focus
Best Uses
- Professional Video
- Prosumer
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
We use this product for our church videos.The camera quality is great, and the functions are easy to use......
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I feels good in the hand. All controls are easy to get to with the touch of a finger. Love the way the LED Screen just pops out and hide away. Light weight and clear on recording.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Really like this camera, prefer it over the hmc40 we were using. We use it to stream video in our church
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The camera has some problems with high contrast images, with skin tone, with low lights, tends go green in tungsten.
The touch screen is a little fragile.
But, is cheap, has XLR inputs, record in 2 SD at the same time...
It is not so magic, but the price is right.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Clear image
- Decent Lowlight
- Decent price
- Ease of Use
- Manual Focuszoomiris
- Sensitive Zoom Button
- Uses Sdhc Instead Of Tape
Cons
- Autoexposure Too
- Autofocus Could Improve
Best Uses
- concerts
- Special events
- Weddings
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I spent about 3 months researching a few different cameras in this price range and I narrowed it down to this one from all the reviews, footage and features I saw. I do all kinds of video work but have been only using a dslr. i needed a regular video camera for some of the longer events I have to film since dslr's have some limitations. I've used it for 3 concerts recently and i've liked the ease of use so far. ONe main point that sold me on this camera was the fact that it records on sdhc cards, I had no interests in going back to having to transfer minidv tapes. I also like that it has 3 manual rings for focus, zoom, and iris. I had read a number of reviews where people say their rings were stiff but mines are very smooth so I'm happy about that. In my few times using it i realized I prefer using a mix of autofocus and manual focus. Sometimes autofocus loses it if the lighting suddenly goes dark. As far as exposure, i prefer doing it manual because the autoexposure takes the iris much higher than i'd like it to go which can cause grainy video. Otherwise, its decent in low light and very easy to use. I look forward to continuing to learn more about its features so i can take full advantage of it. I can definitely recommend this camera to anyone doing wedding videography or filming concerts.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- 3 Rings Focus-zoom-iris
- Dual Flash Memory Cards
- Focus Assist
Cons
Best Uses
- Business Videos
- Documentary
- Independent films
- Run and Gun
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
So far this camera has produced excellent results. I have used a Panasonic DVX100 (standard Def.) camcorder for years. I bought this because I needed a HD camcorder. This is the HD equivalent to the DVX100. Some nice features are Focus Assist - red surrounds the object when it's in focus - really helps. Also, you have 3 rings to work with (focus, zoom, iris). The sensors are small but with new technology I don't see it has a huge negative.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I think this camera out performs the price point. The picture quality is great and you will not break the bank. I think this camera will help me take my videography to the next level.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Crisp image
- High Value
- Little noise in low light
- Low Price
- OIS
- Smooth Gain Adjestments
Cons
- Small Sensors
Best Uses
- Documentary
- Live Events
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I bought this camera to film stage performances. When I told the BH staff what I wanted to use this camera for, they said it would not handle low light situations well enough and told me to not buy it and save my money for a larger sensor camera. I decided to go against their advice, and I am glad I did. Even though this camera has tiny sensors, the fact that they are back side illuminated seems to really help low light performance. Even with the gain turned all the way to 30db, the picture is still use able, and their is hardly any noise up until 20db. Manual rings are nice, and I like how the gain in iterated into the iris ring for a smooth gain adjustments. The clarity of picture is also quite stunning.I am happy with my purchase, and feel I will get a lot of good use with this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great image clarity
- Great image quality
- Great Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
- Event video
- Studio Video
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
The panasonic AG-AC90PJ I bought went dead on me at an event I was covering. Initially I thought the battery is dead but had the same issue after replacing the battery. The camera won't just power.
It was about a day past the return date but B&H was nice enough to replace the camera for me.
The replacement have no issues so far and am loving this camera. The footage is so good am thinking of buying a second panasonic AG-AC90PJ for backup. I also like the image stabilization, its super good.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Professional use.
Good in low light.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
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Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Im a videographer,I purchased this camcorder when it first came out, I was not sure about it, but after I got it, I was amazed about the qulity of my videos, it is so sharp and clear, it is almost cero noise in low light, and the 3 rings on the lense makes it so valuable, also the weight is so light and with the factory battery you can shoot for 5 hrs straight Im so pleased with this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Great Image
- Great In Low Light
Cons
Best Uses
- Low light
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I recently got this to record videos and it is awesome! Love the features that you can use (i.e. 3 ring adjustment for zoom, iris and focus). Also was very surprised (in a good way) with the way the audio came out. The built in camera audio is great. Used it to film a Bar-Mitzvah party and does great in low light. Hope this review helps!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Battery Life
- Ease of Use
- Low light
Cons
Best Uses
- Anything
- Hunting
- Outdoors
- Weddings
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I will be using the camera mostly for filming hunting and other outdoor activities. So far I have only been able to do minimal testing, but it seems to have great low light imagry. Very clear up at 20 db. Great for full manual control and cant beat the price range.
- Recommended:
- Azden SGM PDII Shotgun Mic, Tiffen Filter Kit, Mulitiple SDHC or SDXC Cards
Pros
- Easy to use
- Great image quality
- Light Weight
Cons
Best Uses
- Sports Productions
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
I use this camera primarily for sports related video. Easy set-up, great image quality and integrates perfectly with FCP. Extremely lightweight, has many features you would find in a far more expensive camera (XLR inputs!)
Pros
- Battery Life
- Design
- Quality
- value
- Wide lens
Cons
Best Uses
- General shooting
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
Out of the box I feel like I made a good investment and saved some cash. The design is much improved over Panasonic's first gen pro AVCCAM's. Really like the fact you can tuck away the LCD screen and that it located at the front end of the camera; it is perfectly located and keeps you from going cross-eyed when using on a shoulder mount support. Still looking forward to seeing how it handles unfavorable lighting situations like weddings in dimly lit churches/chapels. Backup recording when using 2 SD cards will take away fear of card failure I hope; never had a card failure, knock on wood. So that's about it, can't wait to shoot my next event!
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This is a great camera! I chose the AG-AC90 to upgrade my Panasonic HDC-HS100, which I also really love. The two main things I was looking for with the upgrade were 1) better low-light performance, and 2) something a little bigger that would be easier to hold still while shooting (the HS100 is pretty darn small . . .).
The AC90 does very well in low light; when I did a head-to-head test, it completely blew the HS100 out of the water. I shot my kitchen at night lit by only a 40W bulb over the sink. In addition to picking up areas / things that couldn't even be seen with the HS100, the AC90 image was much clearer pretty much everywhere. Yes, they are only 1/4.7" sensors, but whatever image processing, etc. the AC90 is doing more than compensates. The gain on this camera is very clean, and has very good resolution. (The HS100 took kind of huge steps when the gain was adjusted, so you really couldn't adjust gain while recording without it looking completely ridiculous.)
The 3 manual rings (focus, zoom, and iris) are great, and I really like having the extra real-estate on the side of the camera for button access without having to open up an LCD screen. Despite what many have said, I don't think the LCD screen (which comes out of the front of the top handle) feels flimsy. Sure, I wouldn't hold the LCD screen and swing the camera around above my head, but under normal use I'm not losing any sleep worrying that the LCD is going to break off.
The battery seems to last forever, but I hate having only one battery, so picked up a spare anyway. I also got a Kata Multipro-120-PL backpack to carry the AC90 around. It's technically made for DSLRs, not video cameras, and so getting the AC90 in there is a little snug. But, I really wanted a backpack that could make it onto an airplane, so went with the 120-PL. I do not have a shotgun mic yet, and so have removed the mic holder from the AC90; once I add those, though, I may need to get a little creative to fit everything in the bag . . .
The only things I don't care for are 1) the top handle zoom lever is a bit noisy, 2) the max zoom speed is only settable for the top handle zoom lever; the speed of the "normal" zoom lever just depends on how hard you press on the rocker (but, the rocker is nice and big, so it's not that difficult to control zoom speed), and 3) I'm pretty sure you cannot copy clips from one SD card to another with the camera. The HS100 let you do that, which was a nice way to back stuff up when traveling without needing a laptop or external HDDs.
Those are really the only "cons" I have, and none of them are that big of a deal. This is a great camera, and I would definitely recommend it!
Pros
- Ease of Use
- Great picture
- Manual Rings Work Well
- Nice Hard Buttons
Cons
- Saves Files In 4gb Files
Best Uses
- Confences All I Do
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This was my first "real" camera for doing conferences at work. Having the XLR inputs really saves time. I no longer have to use a clapper board and synch. The video quality is good but haven't truely tested it in real life low light. The manual rings feel perfect. I haven't used many cameras. Manual white balance is easy to do but I wish there were more adjustments possible. This camera is well balanced to hold and the stabilizer works well. The outside hard buttons are quick to learn and allow you to customize just how manual the camera operates with no surprises. Several programmable on screen buttons are also available. The intelligent auto is nice but I still perfer manual. Lastly the videos are saved in about 4GB size chunks which have to be strung together in post. I really don't like this for my kind of shoot however overall you can't beat this camera in quaility and ease of use at this price. I would highly recommened it and buy another if I needed a B cam
Pros
- 1080 60p
- Dual Sd Recording
- Great Image Stabilization
- Nice image
- Three Control Rings
Cons
- Fragile Lcd
- Small Chips
- Uneven Weight Balance
Best Uses
- Professional Video
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
This camera really stands out in its price category. The main thing that differentiates it from the others in the same price range is that it has three control rings (focus, zoom, iris). The second thing that is outstanding about it is the image stabilization. As for cons compared to other cameras in the price range, I wish it used slightly bigger chips. Panasonic could have given us at least 1/4" chips. Also, I'm not entirely confident in the durability of the flip out LCD. You have to pull it out and push it back into its housing, and it only rotates around one axis, so it just generally feels fragile as if it needs to be babied. Lastly, the weight distribution feels a bit weird - it seems front-heavy and made my hand start to hurt after a while of handholding it. Still, I think the pros outweigh the cons, especially if the pros are features that you're looking for that like I mentioned cannot be found in other similarly-priced cameras.
Pros
- Easy menu
- Light wieght
- Totall Manual Control
Cons
- Cold Shoe Is In Bad Spot
Best Uses
Comments about AG-AC90 AVCCAM Handheld Camcorder:
got this about 2 weeks ago been filming a lot of skateing with it and i love it. picture is way better than i expected. and the control is awesome. the only complaint is that its a little from heavy with a fisheye but i think if i get the biggest battery you offer it will balance it out. i cant fit my light on the cold shoe either the xlr port is too tall and blocks it so i need a extenter
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Show more >Required item: Recording media is not included. A memory card is required to record your footage.
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