Panasonic Debuts Two Light HD Camcorders

By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 6/15/2009

Secaucus, N.J. — Panasonic introduced last week what it called two of the world's lightest HD camcorders.

Models HDC-SD10 ($550 suggested retail) and HDC-TM10 ($600) are both slated to ship to dealers in September. Each weigh in at half a pound and offer FullHD 1080p resolution and 16-times optical zoom magnification.

Both models also use SDHC/SD memory cards to capture recordings, but the step-up HDC-TM10 adds “Twin Memory,” meaning it also has 8GB of internal flash memory.

Panasonic's Advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) which works in tandem with the zoom function is said to detect and correct for hand shake around 4,000 times per second.

A new Active mode extends the hand-shake correction to compensate for bumps and jumps while walking or moving during shooting.

“We recognize that users are looking for camcorders that capture high-quality, high-definition video, but they also want something lightweight that has advanced, yet easy-to-use functions,” stated Chuck Kirkman, Panasonic imaging senior product manager. “With the SD10 and TM10, we've made it easier to record HD video with features such as Advanced OIS, face detection, intelligent scene selector and the Pre-Rec function, all which maximize shooting results and minimize common issues like blurring.”

Both models include Panasonic's iA (Intelligent Auto) function, which automatically sets the most suitable scene mode for shooting conditions.

These include Advanced OIS; face detection, which adjusts the exposure especially for faces; Intelligent Contrast Control; and Intelligent Scene Selector, which determines the shooting conditions and automatically selects the scene setting for best results.

Both models also include auto focus/auto exposure tracking and a Pre-Rec function that continuously records three seconds of images into an internal buffer memory. Both units also include a built-in video light and flash.

The TM10 will be available in black and silver models, with the SD10 in black only.