HD Camcorders

Panasonic is offering a full line of new high-definition camcorders. Most of these new models employ the familiar compact, palm-held form factor (with a flip-out LCD screen) that video shooters have come to know and love. Most capture full HD video at 1920 x 1080 frame sizes as MPEG-4 AVC / H.264, and some models are even able to capture 1080p at 60 frames per second.

Capitalizing on home video trends of 2012—local network and Internet connectivity, high-definition recording and solid-state storage—Canon is introducing six easy-to-use VIXIA camcorders. All accept the high-capacity SDXC card, as well as SD and SDHC memory cards; and four of the models contain internal flash memory, too.

People see in 3D because they have two eyes, each relaying a slightly different perspective to the brain, which then combines the two images to create a sense of depth. Traditional cameras and camcorders can never capture 3D because they have only one lens.

Panasonic has introduced a slew of new pocket-size camcorders. The format seems to have taken hold and is getting to be more popular, not less. One has to wonder why the Flip was discontinued, but at least vendors such as Panasonic can continue to fill this niche market with these small, fun camcorders.

The new HD170 Stealth shares many features and similarities with the original HD170 model, but there's a lot more to it besides its new, black "stealthy" color. The Stealth comes with a new chip that enables you to shoot 60 fps video (which is ideal for slow motion), as well as 25 and 50 fps for European thrill seekers. It's a sweet, low-profile HD camera that you can strap on to capture the ride of your life.

Easy to operate ultra-compact camcorders are really stealing the show these days, and Sony's new higher end HDR-TG5V high definition Handycam is an impressive little performer for those interested in the concentrated form factor but wanting a little more oomph. Marketed for the chic traveler, its lightweight design and clean look combined with enhanced features such as Geotagging and 16GB embedded flash memory make it a great option. 

But let's review the similarities. In our hands-on look at the HDR-FX1000, we noted all the great new features and improvements Sony brought to its replacement of the prosumer HDR-FX1. Those same upgrades apply to the HVR-Z5U, which we were also lucky enough to spend some face-time with prior to its official December release.

Combining signature Canon image quality, professional audio features, and a wide selection of manual controls (frame rates, zooming speed, focus, white balance and gain), the ultra compact XA10 is ideal for independent operators who shoot on location— online news, reality TV, celebrity reporting, extreme sports, etc., or for owners of large professional models looking for a compact addition to their existing set-up.

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