Digital Trends

It’s the end of an era. No it’s not a watershed like the end of the standalone VCR after 30 years. This is likely the last review I’ll do of a tape-based standard definition (SD) camcorder. Technology is passing SD by with a new wave of high-definition home video-makers. SD just doesn’t cut it—especially having just used prototypes of Panasonic’s new AVCHD camcorders due in March and the reviewed Canon HV10 HDV camcorder. And tape technology seems really ancient in this age of ubiquitous hard drives. Still, SD tape has a major advantage over HDD and new high-def models—and it’s an important one—price. You can easily buy an entry-level Mini DV camcorder for around $250; a HD cam will set you back close to a $1,000 and the most affordable HDD camcorder is around $500. So think of this review as a farewell gift to the SD Mini DV shoppers out there. As a matter of fact, the Panasonic PV-GS300 is a pretty neat camcorder with its three-CCD imaging system, 10x Leica zoom lens, optical image stabilization and compact size. Even though it uses tape, we won’t hold that against it.