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General discussion

Panasonic PVGS300 or 500 or Sony HDR HC3?

May 22, 2006 6:17AM PDT

I'm moving up from a Sony TRV19. I want something that takes super video (HD video is not really important at this stage) Quality video is the most important, also lens quality & optical stablizer. Still images not very important as I have a really good Digital SLR. I'm confused with which to buy - 3 CCDs or CMOS... the HC3 is expensive but would I be more satisfied with the results.

Discussion is locked

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HDV
May 22, 2006 7:08AM PDT

Go with the GS500.
The HC3 is overpriced for what it offers.
Yes, it is HDV, but it lacks a focus ring, mic jack, manual controls, etc.
The 3ccds on the GS500 probably offer better color reproduction anyway.

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HDV
May 22, 2006 9:29AM PDT

Thank you for your advice - I'll do just that!

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(NT) (NT) I've heard good things about the HDR-HC3
May 25, 2006 3:00AM PDT
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HC3 is not worth the price - gs500 is
Aug 10, 2006 11:02AM PDT

I purchased the HC3 and am very dissapointed, it is not worth the price. Both cameras are at around the same level of video quality but the gs500 has more control and the price matches the camera, the HC3 is priced way too high. HDV is a joke in my opinion, the picture quality of the HC3 High Def is just OK at best. I was not impressed by the High Definition at all.The Hc3 is either overexposed(outside) or underexposed (indoors), there is no middle with the HC3 .The HC3 has horrible blocky distortion in low light, the gs500 has a much finer grain distortion in low light, the HC3's distortion is just unbareable.
I would go with the gs500 anyday, it is worth the price with. You don't need high definition to get good video quality.
I hope this helps