Illustration of 3CCD imaging device inside the PV-GS250

These top-of-the-line camcorders incorporate the same type of 3CCD imaging system used in Panasonic's celebrated professional camcorders. Individual CCDs are used to reproduce the red, green, and blue colors that compose an image for vivid, true-to-life pictures with remarkable depth and presence. The PV-GS150 and PV-GS250 also feature the sophisticated Leica Dicomar lens, which has become known for its ability to capture and finely render the most delicate nuances of light and shade.

High-resolution digital still images can be captured via the models' built-in digital still camera feature, which records to a stamp-sized SD memory card. The 1.2-megapixel PV-GS65, 2.3-megapixel PV-GS150, and 3.1-megapixel PV-GS250 feature a 10x telescopic optical zoom lens; a 700x digital zoom that allows for amazing 700:1 clear close-ups from wide angle to full telephoto zoom; and a macro zoom feature, which lets users shoot extreme close-ups at distances as near as 40 centimeters.

Transferring recorded video to a PC is also quick and easy via the USB port included on each model. All three models incorporate USB 2.0; however, the PV-GS150 and PV-GS250 support USB 2.0 high speed, enabling real-time video transfers. All three models have miniDV outputs to maximize compatibility with the PC.

10x optical zoom of the PV-GS250

The PV-GS250 also includes a manual focus ring giving the user more creative control over the video being captured. Additionally, all models include a Soft Skin Detail function that detects skin's different tones and softens the focus to create a realistic blend.

Features of the Panasonic PV-GS250

• 3CCD digital video camera
• 10x optical zoom; 700x digital zoom
• Optical image stabilization
• 3.1 megapixel still picture capability
• Leica lens; manual focus ring
• SD slot
• USB 2.0