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Panasonic Pro AG-DVC30 3-CCD MiniDV Camcorder w/16x Optical Zoom
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| Price: |
Average customer review:
Product Description
Includes: 1.00mA battry, AC adapter/charger, IR remote, strap. The Panasonic AGDVC30 is the world's first professional DV camcorder with an infrared recording mode. With its 3 CCD Camcorder and 16x Leica Dicomar Lens, it can shoot in total darkness. It includes 4 scene files, slow shutter function, Cine-gamma and an Optical Image Stabilizer -- all to deliver superior video. View or preview your tape on the 3.5" LCD screen. Multiple zoom speeds & synchro scan. Best of all, it only weighs 2.4 lbs. Movie Like mode combines frame mode & CineGamma for a cinematic look (+ LumiFlik for that old time movie look) Wide-angle, extraordinarily quiet, 16x high speed optical zoom Leica Dicomar lens with low-dispersion glass reducing chromatic aberration & flare with OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) Slow-shutter function for motion lag effects and increased sensitivity + Synchro Scan 1/60.3 ~ 1/250 second 12 bit A/D converter and RGB gamma processor assure high image quality Date & Time stamp can record in the picture area Enriched Auto Functions - Auto Focus, Auto White Balance and Automatic motorized Neutral Density Focus Ring can be assigned to Zoom or Iris + Gain in Auto Focus mode Removable handle (incl.) and XLR Audio input module (optional) allows for customized shooting style 16 - 9 recording can be set to Letterbox or Squeeze modes FireWire support
Product Details
- Amazon Sales Rank: #5163 in Camera & Photo
- Brand: Panasonic
- Model: AG-DVC30
- Dimensions: 4.40" h x 4.60" w x 10.00" l, 7.20 pounds
- Display size: 3.5
Features
- Professional 3CCD MiniDV camcorder with 60i and 30p movie mode 16x optical, 160x digital zoom
- Optical image stabilization; 3.5-inch color LCD monitor rotates 260 degrees
- 16:9 aspect ratio for widescreen recording
- Selectable shutter speeds; full manual controls
- Powered by lithium ion rechargeable battery pack
Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com Product Description
The AG-DVC30's Leica Dicomar 16x optical zoom lens answers a broad range of shooting needs, delivering superb results from 39.5mm wide angle all the way to 632mm telephoto (both 35mm lens equivalents). In wide-angle performance--critical in broadcast and other professional applications--this lens is top of its class. Behind this outstanding performance are the advanced optical technologies and expertise that have made Leica Camera AG one of the most respected names in the camera world.
 The Leica Dicomar lens is first in its class in wide-angle performance. |
 The advanced OIS system eliminates image blur caused by natural hand-shake. |
The AG-DVC30's advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) compensates for hand shaking that occurs as you shoot. A gyrosensor detects hand-shake and sends signals to a linear motor, which adjusts the lens to compensate. Because this process takes place prior to the CCD image capture (rather than in the downstream electronic processing), it virtually eliminates any effect of hand-shake on resolution and screen angle. The OIS can also be helpful when zooming or shooting in dim lighting.
1/4-Inch, 410,000-Pixel 3CCD Image System: High Sensitivity, Low Noise
To ensure a level of picture quality suitable for professionals, the AG-DVC30 uses a 3CCD image system that delivers the highest sensitivity in its class. Its high S/N ratio and extremely low noise (in darker areas of a picture) combines with high sensitivity to deliver excellent image quality even when shooting indoors under dim lighting. When shooting in sunlight or under bright spotlights, this 3CCD system offers low smear.
 The AG-DVC30's 3CCD image system delivers high signal-to-noise ratio and excellent image quality. |
12-bit A/D and RGB Gamma Processor
The AG-DVC30 features an A/D converter that uses the same 12-bit processing as broadcast-quality camera-recorders. This, combined with an RGB gamma processor that uses Panasonic's unique gamma-curve function, helps assure high image-quality processing. In fact, the AG-DVC30's A/D converter and RGB gamma processor are the same ones used in the popular AG-DVX100A, which has won acclaim as the industry's highest-image-quality DV camera.
Movie-Simulation Mode
The AG-DVC30 can capture and reproduce images that are strikingly similar in tone to film images, thanks to Panasonic's unique Cine-Like gamma curve and a 30-frames-per-second recording function that electronically interpolates interlaced images to create frames with no time differences between fields. Settings for this mode are preset in the Movie-Like scene file.
High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter
The slow shutter function uses image accumulation to allow shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. The accumulation method provides bright-color images with less noise than those captured using conventional gain-up, so you get the higher sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination. The slow shutter function can also be used to obtain movie-like effects.
16:9 Widescreen Recording
The aspect ratio can be set to either 4:3 or 16:9 to accommodate wide-image recording. In 16:9 recording, you can select either letterbox or squeeze mode, giving you more possibilities in downstream editing and playback.
 An image shot using Zero Lux IR mode and featuring the date/time display. |
Zero Lux IR Mode: Super Nighttime Shooting System
The AG-DVC30 is the world's first 3CCD camcorder to offer black-and-white recording in the dark using infrared light. This featre opens the door to a host of new possibilities in nighttime monitoring, surveillance, and news gathering. The built-in infrared light makes it possible to record at a distance of about 16 feet.
Professional Audio Quality with XLR Mic (Optional)
The AG-DVC30 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone. Adding the optional AG-MYA30G XLR adapter provides you with +48 V phantom mic and line input needed for news gathering. Featuring two XLR audio input terminals and level controls, the adapter lets you independently switch channel 1 or channel 2 to mic or line input, with each having its own "glow in the dark" level adjustment.
Audio Level Meters
Two color audio level meters can be displayed in the viewfinder and LCD monitor, making it easy to check the signal as you record.
Full Auto or Manual Shooting
Use the AG-DVC30 for either full auto or manual shooting. The Auto/Manual switch turns the four auto functions--focus, shutter speed, iris and gain, and white balance--on and off as desired. Manual focusing is controlled by the large focus ring. You can also switch between manual and auto focus by pushing the Focus button. For added convenience, one of the user buttons can be assigned to turn autofocus on and off.
3.5-inch Color LCD Monitor and Tilt-Up Viewfinder
The large 3.5-inch color LCD monitor rotates 270 degrees, making it easy to shoot at difficult angles, and the Mirror mode makes it easy to record yourself. The display is bright, too, so even outdoors you get good visibility when using the LCD to monitor footage or to select settings from the menu. For added ease of use when taking low-angle shots, you also can tilt the viewfinder 70 degrees upward.
Magnesium Alloy Chassis
Designed for professionals, the AG-DVC30 boasts the same tough magnesium alloy diecast chassis as do the DVCPRO broadcast models. This rigid casing protects the high-precision components from bumps and jolts, helps shield out interface, and provides the AG-DVC30 with the reliability and durability needed for active field use.
Automatic Head Cleaning
The AG-DVC30 provides the same head-cleaning function as do the DVCPRO models. The white roller pad positioned to the right of the head cylinder cleans the head each time you load a tape, helping to minimize dropouts and head clogging.
IEEE 1394 Terminal with Synchro Lock
An IEEE 1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal makes it easy to upload data from the AG-DVC30 or to dub footage onto a DV recorder. This terminal also features a new synchro lock function that lets you use the AG-DVC30 to remotely start and stop an external DV device. Three recording modes help protect against mistakes: record onto external recorder only, record onto both AG-DVC30 and external recorder, and begin external recording when the AG-DVC30 tape ends.
Versatile Performance
Total mobility? Easy carrying? Or advanced audio specs? With the multistyle handle, the choice is yours. Designed with the professional in mind, the AG-DVC30 introduces a new detachable handle that adds versatility by letting you use this compact DV camera three different ways.
- Style 1: With handle detached, this super-compact 3CCD camera fits easily into a bag or pack for highest mobility.
- Style 2: With handle in place, the AG-DVC30 is easy to carry and easy to use, even when shooting at difficult angles.
- Style 3: With the optional XLR adapter mounted on the handle, the AG-DVC30 has outstanding audio specs, plus the ability to add two external phantom mics or line inputs with "glow in the dark" level controls.
MiniDV Format
The MiniDV format offers more precise image detail and color accuracy than was previously possible with analog camcorders. The superior quality of digital video results from:
- Higher resolution: Up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution on select models for sharper picture detail
- Component color sampling: Preserves three times more color information than does analog VHS or S-VHS video, for brighter and truer colors
- Time base correction: Stabilizes the picture, eliminating video jitters
- Error correction: Fills in missing video data, providing seamless, professional-looking video
What's in the Box
Camera, handle, lens hood, lens cap, shoulder strap, AC cord, AV cables, DC cord, battery, AC adapter, large eye cup, wireless remote control unit, Master Series tape.
 Accessories included with the AG-DVC30. |
From the Manufacturer
The AG-DVC30's Leica Dicomar 16x optical zoom lens answers a broad range of shooting needs, delivering superb results from 39.5mm wide angle all the way to 632mm telephoto (both 35mm lens equivalents). In wide-angle performance — critical in broadcast and other professional applications — this lens is tops in its class. Behind this outstanding performance are the advanced optical technologies and expertise that have made Leica Camera AG one of the most respected names in the camera world. This new 16x optical zoom lens system uses low-dispersion glass and aspherical lenses to reduce color aberration and boost resolution. Use of a special multi-coating process dramatically reduces flare and ghosts. The result: sharp, crisp, beautifully rendered pictures with vivid colors, delicate nuances, and exceptional shading.
Optical Image Stabilizer Compensates for Hand Shaking
The AG-DVC30's advanced Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS) compensates for hand shaking that occurs as you shoot. A gyrosensor detects hand-shake and sends signals to a linear motor, which adjusts the lens to compensate. Because this process takes place prior to the CCD image capture (rather than in the downstream electronic processing), it virtually eliminates any effect of hand-shake on resolution and screen angle. The OIS can also be helpful when zooming or shooting in dim lighting.
1/4-Inch, 410,000-Pixel 3CCD Image System: High Sensitivity, Low Noise
To assure a level of picture quality suitable for professionals, the AG-DVC30 uses a 3CCD image system that delivers the highest sensitivity in its class. Its high S/N ratio and extremely low noise (in darker areas of a picture) combines with high sensitivity to deliver excellent image quality even when shooting indoors under dim lighting. When shooting in sunlight or under bright spotlights, this 3CCD system offers low smear.
12-bit A/D and RGB Gamma Processor
The AG-DVC30 features an A/D converter that uses the same 12-bit processing as broadcast-quality camera-recorders. This, combined with an RGB gamma processor that uses Panasonic's unique gamma curve function, helps assure high image-quality processing. In fact, the AG-DVC30's A/D converter and RGB gamma processor are the same ones used in our popular AG-DVX100A, which has won acclaim as the industry's highest image quality DV camera.
Movie Simulation Mode
The AG-DVC30 can capture and reproduce images that are strikingly similar in tone to film images, thanks to Panasonic's unique Cine-Like gamma curve and a 30-fps frame recording function that electronically interpolates interlaced images to create frames with no time differences between fields. Settings for this mode are preset in the Movie-Like scene file.
High-Sensitivity Slow Shutter
The slow shutter function uses image accumulation to allow shutter speeds with frame rates reduced by half or more. The accumulation method provides bright-color images with less noise than those captured using conventional gain-up, so you get the higher sensitivity needed for nighttime shooting without illumination. The slow shutter function can also be used to obtain movie-like effects.
16:9 Wide Recording
The aspect ratio can be set to either 4:3 or 16:9 to accommodate wide-image recording. In 16:9 recording, you can select either letterbox or squeeze mode, giving you more possibilities in downstream editing and playback.
Professional Audio Quality with XLR Mic (Optional)
The AG-DVC30 comes equipped with a built-in stereo microphone. Adding the optional AG-MYA30G XLR adapter provides you with +48 V phantom mic and line input needed for news gathering. Featuring two XLR audio input terminals and level controls, the adapter lets you independently switch channel 1 or channel 2 to mic or line input, with each having its own "glow in the dark" level adjustment.
Audio Level Meters
Two color audio level meters can be displayed in the viewfinder and LCD monitor, making it easy to check the signal as you record.
Full Auto or Manual Shooting
Use the AG-DVC30 for either full auto or manual shooting. The Auto/Manual switch turns the four auto functions — focus, shutter speed, iris & gain, and white balance — on and off as desired. Manual focusing is controlled by the large focus ring. You can also switch between manual and auto focus by pushing the Focus button. For added convenience, one of the user buttons can be assigned to turn auto focus on and off.
3.5" Color LCD Monitor and Tilt-Up Viewfinder
The large 3.5" color LCD monitor rotates 270 degrees, making it easy to shoot at difficult angles and the Mirror mode makes it easy to record yourself. The display is bright too, so even outdoors you get good visibility when using the LCD to monitor footage or select settings from the menu. For added ease of use when taking low-angle shots, you also can tilt the viewfinder 70 degrees upward.
Magnesium Alloy Chassis
Designed for professionals, the AG-DVC30 boasts the same tough magnesium alloy diecast chassis as our DVCPRO broadcast models. This rigid casing protects the high-precision components from bumps and jolts, helps shield out interface and provides the AG-DVC30 with the reliability and durability needed for active field use.
Automatic Head Cleaning
The AG-DVC30 provides the same head cleaning function as our DVCPRO models. The white roller pad positioned to the right of the head cylinder cleans the head each time you load a tape, helping to minimize dropouts and head clogging.
IEEE 1394 Terminal with Synchro Lock
An IEEE 1394-compliant 4-pin DV terminal makes it easy to upload data from the AG-DVC30, or to dub footage onto a DV recorder. This terminal also features a new synchro lock function that lets you use the AG-DVC30 to remotely start and stop an external DV device. Three recording modes help protect against mistakes: record onto external recorder only, record onto both AG-DVC30 and external recorder, begin external recording when the AG-DVC30 tape ends.
Versatile Performance
Total mobility? Easy carrying? Or advanced audio specs? With the multi-style handle, the choice is yours. Designed with the professional in mind, the AG-DVC30 introduces a new detachable handle that adds versatility by letting you use this compact DV camera three different ways.
- Style 1: With handle detached, this super-compact 3CCD camera fits easily into a bag or pack for highest mobility.
- Style 2: With handle in place, the AG-DVC30 is easy to carry and easy to use, even when shooting at difficult angles.
- Style 3: With the optional XLR adapter mounted on the handle, the AG-DVC30 has outstanding audio specs, plus the ability to add two external phantom mics or line inputs with "glow in the dark" level controls.
MiniDV Format
The MiniDV format offers more precise image detail and color accuracy than previously possible with analog camcorders. The superior quality of digital video results from:
- Higher Resolution -- up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution, on select models for sharper picture detail
- Component Color Sampling -- preserves three times more color information than analog VHS and S-VHS video, for brighter and truer colors
- Time Base Correction -- stabilizes the picture, eliminating video jitters
- Error Correction -- fills in missing video data, providing seamless, professional-looking video
What's in the Box
Camera, handle, lens hood, lens cap, shoulder strap, AC cord, AV cables, DC cord, battery, AC adapter, large eye cup, wireless remote control unit, Master Series tape.
Customer Reviews
Small, but sturdy - excellent low-light capability
This is a great camera for the wedding videographer or other serious amateur or semi-professional. It's well built, has great manual control, and takes super video including good low-light performance. You will probably want the external mic attachment, which lets you use professional microphones without additional adapters and signal processors. Now that the price is well below $2000, it's a great deal. One caveat: If you plan to shoot 16:9 format, this is not the best choice. The Panasonic GS400 handles that much better, and at a lower price. (But the GS400 doesn't have the low-light chops that the DVC-30 has - so you have to set your priorities.)
Plusses:
* Very good low light capability
* Sturdy, metal body construction
* Will take professional external microphones (with optional attachment)
* Unbelievable B&W no-light capability with infrared (short range built into camera; medium range add-on IR light increases range to hundreds of feet.)
* Excellent manual control available via menu AND you can put your favorite four settings on programmable buttons on the camera body for extra convenience.
* Without attachments, the body with built-in mic is small and consumer-like (won't draw attention to itself), not to mention light-weight.
* Lovely video with three 1/4-inch CCD's.
Minuses:
* The Sony 2100 has even better low-light ability
* The 16:9 mode isn't as good as the PDX10 or GS400.
* The still picture capability is only adequate.
* The built-in mic is only average.
A good camera that captures great images
This is a superior camera for the money. Simple operation and well constructed. It has a "well built feel" to it and fits well in your hand. The detail of the image is awesome, better than I hoped for. I'm very impressed with the 16x zoom, very nice and clean image.
Don't be fooled by the size of this camera, the quality of the image is beautiful. A lot of camera in a little package. It has 4 built in shooting settings for different situations. It has a low level light option that does a decent job of capturing the scene after dark.
I gave it 4 stars because I didn't like the manual that it came with and the manual controlling for the iris and focus could have been made easier to access and use. The built in microphone does not really pick up the desired audio that well. I recommend picking up an external boom microphone or lapel mic system to supercede the built in mic depending on your application.
If you are in need of a firewire cable to download the video to your computer make sure you pick one of those up as well. The camera firewire port is a 4pin firewire connector.
Great Camera
While the Sony vx2100 does better in low light, this camera holds it's own very well. For the price, it's impossible to beat. Great picture quality, 3.5 inch LCD and solid build quality. Most cameras in this range still have the plastic body, but the magnesium alloy body on the AG-DVC30 is rugged and feels great. I've used it for regular family shooting and filming plays. So many choices on the manual settings. Can't say enough. Here's a great forum for it. http://www.camcorderinfo.com/bbs/f131
