Panasonic HDC Boston MA

Reader Score: 6.92 (out of 10)

Review (Summary): "Once in a while we get to try out products that aren't just interesting or cool but mark the start of a revolution. The Panasonic HDC-SD1 camcorder is such a device - a camcorder that can capture images at 1080i resolution without the need for tapes. It's not the first consumer level High Definition camcorder on the market, with Sony's HDR-HD3 being its second stab at the market. However, while the HD1 and HD3 record onto MiniDV tapes the Panasonic HDC-SD1 records onto SD card. While HDV is a great format, I've always felt that it almost anachronistic to be using tapes in 2007 when it has been outmoded in every other sphere. ...

The HDC-SD1 is a fantastic cutting edge piece of technology that finally does away with the need for tapes. It's small and light, delightfully easy to use and most of all takes superb high definition images. The AVCHD codec means that few editing applications will handle it, but there are already two packages on the market on the way and more to follow. If you like being at the cutting edge, the HDC-SD1 is highly recommended." ...