DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY NEWS

Panasonic Introduces Four New DVD Camcorders for 2006

New Line Features Multi-Format Compatibility, Powerful 30x Optical Zoom And Includes Two 3CCD Models

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 4, 2006) - Panasonic introduces a new line of innovative DVD camcorders that capture crisp, high-resolution digital video on convenient 8cm DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD-RAM discs.

“The DVD-RAM format allows non-linear editing right in the camcorder, and gives the greatest flexibility in re-recording,” explains Rudy Vitti, national marketing manager, Panasonic Optical Group. “And for added compatibility, consumers can also record onto DVD-R and DVD-RW discs, which will play back in most standard DVD players.”

Panasonic’s 2006 line offers the advantages of DVD recording technology starting with a suggested retail price of $499.95, with model VDR-D100. It features 30x optical zoom, a color viewfinder, 2.5” LCD, joystick control for easy, one-finger navigation, and high-speed USB 2.0 interface.

Model VDR-D200 adds an SD Memory Card slot, a built-in LED color enhancement light and VGA still picture recording.

The new VDR-250 features 3 CCDs, 2.3 mega-pixel still image recording, 10x optical zoom, 2.7” widescreen LCD and 16:9 widescreen format recording.

Finally, the VDR-300 offers 3 CCDs, and adds a Leica lens, Optical Image Stabilization, 3.1 mega-pixel still image recording, and built-in flash.

“This is one of the fastest-growing digital video markets”, said Vitti. “DVD camcorders are a logical choice for consumers who want to capture and preserve their personal memories with the high image quality combined with the convenience of the DVD format.”

2006 Panasonic DVD Camcorders

MODEL	FEATURES	EXPECTED SHIP DATE	SRP*
VDR-D100	2.5” LCD, color viewfinder, 30x optical zoom, high-speed USB 2.0 interface	January	$499.95
VDR-D200	2.5” LCD, color viewfinder, 30x optical zoom, SD Memory Card slot, Built in LED light, . DVD Movie Album, DVD fun Studio and Imx 2 software.	January	$599.95
VDR-D250	3 CCDs, 2.7” 16:9 LCD, 16:9 widescreen format recording, 10x optical zoom, 2.3 mega-pixel still image recording, SD Memory Card slot, high-speed USB 2.0 plus USB cable and video editing software.	May	$899.95
VDR-D300	3 CCDs, Leica lens, OIS, 2.7” 16:9 LCD, 16:9 widescreen format recording, 10x optical zoom, 3.1 mega-pixel still image recording, SD Memory Card slot, high-speed USB 2.0 plus USB cable and video editing software.	March	$999.95