Panasonic AG-DVX100B 3-CCD MiniDV Proline Camcorder

The AG-DVX100B is the most recent version of the Panasonic 24-frame standard definition video camera. When initially introduced, the AG-DVX100 (pre-A model) was the first small video camcorder to offer film-like 24-frame per second recording. High-end shoulder mount cameras offer film-speed recording, but operating these cameras requires a large production crew and oodles of money. The next model, the AG-DVX100A added more gamma correction and other cine' picture-look settings than the first model. The AG-DVX100B is the improved version of the "A" camera with some 20 new features like a higher resolution viewfinder, Scene Files and Time Code transfer through the FireWire cable, greater power efficiency with newly developed battery pack, more delicate zoom control and more. An all-black paint job on the new DVX-100B camera actually hides finger marks and smears and reduces reflection compared with the older silver bodied "A" model. This latest version also comes standard with Magic Bullet edit software and an instructional DVD production book. Superior Image Rendering with the Leica Lens and OISThe Leica Dicomar lens featured in the AG-DVX100B incorporates Leica optical technology and real-world professional experience. Use of low-dispersion glass reduces color aberration and increases resolution, while a multi-coating process minimizes flare and ghosting. The results are sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered images with delicate nuances and exceptional shading. The lens system features 15 lens elements in 11 groups, including three aspherical lenses. Panasonic's advanced OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) drastically cuts the blurring caused by hand shake. Optical processing with an automatic correction function helps assure consistently clear, sharp images.High Sensitivity and Superior Image QualityPanasonic designed the AG-DVX100B to deliver the high sensitivity and picture quality professional require. At its heart is a 3-CCD RGB system comprising three 1/3", 410,000-pixel progressive CCDs developed especially for broadcast and professional applications. The new "on chip lens" design achieves high f/11 sensitivity, allowing the camcorder to record in light as dim as 3 lux, for example, in nighttime news gathering. Its high Signal to Noise ratio means less noise in darker parts of the image and low smear that allows shooting in sunlight or under bright spotlights.High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter (Cumulative) FunctionThe slow shutter function uses image accumulation to enable shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. You get the ultra-high sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination, as well as dramatic frame-by-frame or soft focus effects.High Image Quality with 12-Bit A/D ConversionThe AG-DVX100B features an A/D converter that uses the same 12-bit processing as broadcast cameras. Precisely digitizing the gradation and colors captured by the progressive CCD, this A/D converter supports gamma switching and other fine downstream image adjustments.RGB Gamma Processor Provides Rich, Film-Like TonesPanasonic has greatly expanded the expressive capability of the DV camera by creating unique gamma functions such as Cine-Like gamma curves, which produce images strikingly similar in tone to film images. For each of the RGB signals, the gamma curve settings are processed immediately upstream from the digital signal processing circuit. This helps achieve outstanding image quality. The AG-DVX100B continues with the tradition of the seven gamma curves pioneered with the DVX100A.High-Quality, Native Progressive 24p/30p ModeThanks to its progressive 3-CCD chip-set, the AG-DVX100B creates native progressive images with outstanding vertical resolution unlike images produced using conventional electronic interpolation. With its high mobility and low costs, the AG-DVX100B is the ideal tool for producing independent films, shorts, or streaming video. You may choose from three shooting modes: 24p (24 fps, progressive) for images with the look and motion of film movies, 30p (30 fps, progressive), or standard 60i (60 fps, interlace).24p Advance Mode For 24p Non-Linear EditingIn 24p mode, images from the CCD can be 2:3 pulldown-converted (24p Mode) or 2:3:3:2 pulldown-converted (24p Advance Mode) and recorded onto tape in the standard 60i TV format. The tape can then be played back or edited using an ordinary DV system. True 24p editing can be achieved by uploading 2:3:3:2 pulldown-converted images via an IEEE 1394 DV interface to a compatible non-linear editing system. The 24p Advance Mode allows 60i/24p conversion with minimal picture degradation and on the fly 24 frame extraction.Improved Color Reproduction and Advanced Image Adjustments Built-In Optimized color separation optics help provide true-to-life colors Enriched Matrix setting offers more saturated colors Adjustable V detail level (edge correction in vertical direction), H/V detail balance, and detail coring (detail noise