Reviewed by
Bobby H , Professional

Price Paid
$999.00 at Soundtrack, Colorado

Summary
The Panasonic PV-GS70 breaks new ground by offering a 3CCD video camera for under $1,000. The 3CCD system produces more accurate color quality than most any single chip camcorder at the same price, or even significantly higher. It is amazing so much function and connectivity could be featured in such a small palmcorder. Actually, that is a bit confusing too. It took a bit of searching to find the I*Link and S-Video outputs on the unit (they're not in the same place as the USB 2.0, Remote/Mic and A-V out plugs). The controls on the camera seem pretty easy to understand. When using the USB 2.0 connection, the camera can run as a web-cam.

Strengths
Color fidelity is as good as some cameras that cost over $2000. Good zoom lens. Lots of connectivity options (but you will have to use a Firewire I*Link connection to stream video into a computer).

Weaknesses
Low light performance is not very good. The camera uses some edge enhancement when recording video, which turns into a problem when the Electronic Image Stabilization feature is turned on. Hand held shots can have some haloing problems on edge detail. You're better off by turning off EIS, using a tripod and good lighting. Then your video will look great.

Another issue (although kind of an annoying small one) is the AC adapter. Panasonic needs to rethink this one. It plugs into the battery socket with the other end attaching to the charger. The cable is not durable. I have had my camera less than a month and my AC adapter needs to be replaced.

Similar Products Used
My first MiniDV palmcorder (wouldn't buy one until 3CCD models hit the scene). Previously used professional Sony field cameras.

Customer Service
About to find out when I call about this AC adapter. Hope the warranty covers it.

Reviewed by
davekilpatrick , Intermediate , from North Syracuse, NY, USA

Price Paid
$860.00 at Profeel.com

Summary
A good camera for the price, the major drawback being low light performance. Very good picture outdoors. Easy to use, although you must open the flip out screen to access tape transports. Top loading tape is a plus. Small size is delightful, the only drawback is keeping is steady (use a tripod!).

Strengths
Excellent color and sharpness.

Weaknesses
Low light performance. You can boost the gain manually, but you loose coloration and boost graininess in the process.

Similar Products Used
Sony Digital8, Canon ZR20

Customer Service
Haven't needed it.

Reviewed by
Vip , Intermediate

Price Paid
$0.00

Summary
A very featured camera at a very competitive price.
Extremely easy to use with some nice accessories.

Strengths
Colour reproduction
Sound reproduction - zoom mic
Remote controls
Built-in flash

Weaknesses
Lack of optical image stabilisation

Similar Products Used
Sony Camcorders

Customer Service
Haven't had to use it yet

Reviewed by
Kiyumi Adil , Casual , from Oman

Price Paid
$1062.00 at 1062

Summary
I consider it as one of the best small mini DV camcorder in the market. everthing in small and professional package. 3CCD + 1.7 Miga pixels + etc..

Strengths
Being smallest 3CCD camera.
Excellent video quality (Day light)
excellent sound PCM (digital quality sound)
easy to use
quick start-up (1.5 Second)

Weaknesses
weak night low light vision

Customer Service
I had an International waranty

Reviewed by
erik337_junk , Casual

Price Paid
$999.00 at Circuit City

Summary
This is a very good camera. The color reproduction and saturation are phenomenal. I compared it side, by side w/ the Sonys TRV22 and TRV33. The GS70 won in the color category hands down, with good lighting. The picture resolution was about the same as the TRV22. The TRV33 beat the GS70 slightly in resolution. Low light performance of the GS70 is not too good compared to the TRV22. Also, when you get into the digital zoom, the picture becomes grainy very quickly. If Panasonic could increase the resolution slightly and put a 20X optical zoom on this camera, it would be top dog in all respects. Even w/ the nuances, I LOVE it and would not trade it for any Sony.

Strengths
Color saturation.

Weaknesses
Low light performance

Similar Products Used
Several Sonys.

Customer Service
haven't used it