Panasonic PV-GS39 Review:

The Panasonic PV-GS39 MiniDV Camcorder with 30x Optical Zoom combines versatility, ergonomic design, a powerful zoom and enhanced PC connection options. With a new, low-height, compact design featuring a convenient side-load mechanism for inserting and removing tapes, the Panasonic PV GS29 offers the ultimate in point-and-shoot ease. The Panasonic PV-GS39 includes a DV output (firewire) for easy digital connection to compatible PCs or digital video editing equipment, a 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD display, built-in LED light, and a 30x optical zoom and 1000x digital zoom. The camcorder also allows you to record in wide-screen format and includes a secure digital memory card slot. Joystick control offers users with easy operation and navigation.

I was looking for a relative inexpensive camera gift for a graduating senior. While looking in a local store this Panasonic PV-GS39 camcorder caught my attention. It’s got a clean, attractive styling, compact size, and the video quality looked good on a nearby TV to which it was hooked up. I’ve had positive experiences with Panasonic camcorders in the past — in fact my current workhorse camcorder is the beloved VDR-D300 3CCD DVD model (see my review on Amazon). The Panasonic PV-GS39 also seems to be user-friendly, and the salesman confirmed to me that it’s got better video quality than some of the more expensive models out there. The 30x optical zoom with image stabilization technology would be a boon to the gift recipient who’s about to embark on a yearlong world “study” tour. (Of course, we all know what young people do on such tours.) Finally, the price was definitely perfect as a graduation gift, so I bought it.

BTW, buy before July 1 and get a free camcorder bag and 3 free blank tapes from Panasonic. You can get the rebate form in store or on Panasonic’s website; e-mail me if you can’t find the rebate link.

In short, this is a terrific value and starter camcorder.

—– by Gadgester

Panasonic PV-GS39 Features

• Features 30x optical zoom and 1000x digital zoom
• Low-height, compact design with a convenient side-load mechanism for tapes
• 2.7-inch 16:9 LCD display
• Joystick control for easy operation and navigation

Panasonic PV-GS39 Specifications

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