Panasonic PV-GS39 review

Wondering how Panasonic dropped the price on this year's model? The PV-GS39 skimps on ports. You'll find DV, USB, and composite/audio A/V-out connectors, but the S-Video output and the microphone input found on the previous model are missing.

The PV-GS39 is responsive; focus, exposure, and white balance react quickly when panning to new subjects. The stereo microphone doesn't pick up much separation between left and right channels, but its zoom function, which increases sensitivity as you zoom the lens, works very well.

Unfortunately, video quality has taken a slight downturn since Panasonic's previous generation. Like the PV-GS35, the PV-GS39 captures more detail than many entry-level camcorders, and it offers relatively accurate color reproduction. But even in very bright shooting conditions, the image included noticeable grain. On the upside, the PV-GS39 doesn't suffer from the distracting image shifting caused by the PV-GS35's electronic image stabilization.

Low-light performance is above average for a camera in this price class. Graininess increases and color begins to fade as lighting conditions darken, but the PV-GS39 maintains a good level of detail until things get really dim. A built-in video light boasts two intensity levels and does a good job of illuminating fairly close objects. The camera slows the shutter speed when you activate the light, making for somewhat jerky footage.

If you're in the market for an inexpensive camcorder with a really long zoom lens, Panasonic's PV-GS39 shouldn't disappoint. We just wish the company had maintained the same image quality we enjoyed in last year's model.