Panasonic PV-D301 VHS-C Camcorder

The PV-D301 is successor to Panasonic's PV-D300. The upgraded lens boosts the optical zoom to 20x, and can move from wide-angle to telephoto in under two seconds. The PV-D301 also improves upon the fader system, with color digital fades. Unbelievable low-light sensitivity allows recording down to 0.8 lux, to catch those evening games or parties with clarity. The camera can be programmed to record at lengths of 10, 20, or 30 minutes at a time, or until the tape is exhausted. The camera also integrates the EIS system, or electronic image stabilization, to help compensate for unwanted shaking when the camera is fully zoomed.

Handy editing features like the titler allow the photographer to add a personal touch to home movies. The built-in fader offers seven variations in your choice of eight colors. Variations include soft or sharp diamond and square patterns. A motion sensor lets the PV-D301 act as a home security camera. The camcorder uses the VHS-C tape format, so there are no cables to connect if you want to view your movies on a television--just pop the tape into the included VHS adapter, insert into VCR, and press Play. The PV-D301 also comes with an AC adapter, battery pack, AV cable, and shoulder strap.