Panasonic Palmcorder PV-GS500 Mini DV Camcorder

This is a lovely little camcorder that I like to call a movie camera. I shot my first indie music video for a group using the Panasonic GS50. The image quality is 'there'. If you're planning to do any type of project (documentary, video diary, music video, etc..) and can't afford the $1000 AG DVC-7 or the $3800 AGDVX100A then buy this camcorder. Of course, you can use it for everyday recording as well. This mini 'movie camera' comes complete with a digital pass through, so you can covert VHS to Mini DV. You can use this feature to convert your old personal VHS home recordings or when you're doing projects to take old footage thats on VHS and edit in with the new. The camera also includes a narration mic (where else can you get a mini dv camera with an external mic included) for interviews (or whatever you choose. Hang on to the remote. One may wonder why he or she would need a remote control for a camcorder, but you'll need it to operate the pass through. The design is very very compact. If you plan to do major major (listed in phone book type of work, you might NOT want to show up with just this one little camera (I use two, one handheld one stationary on a tripod). But don't buy two of these, in that case you'd want to purchase the AG-DVC-7. However, this camera will do fine If youre just doing Word-of-Mouth work. I couldn't seem to find out If I could use AC/DC power directly to the wall to save on the battery (this would be nice) especially while at home. I'll have to read the manual more thoroughly. The picture is what you'd expect in a digital camera. The LCD screen is adequate. It has a hot shoe so you can mount an light or a mic on top which is a plus. As a bonus, the still camera takes good pictures, especially outdoors. The still camera is real simple to use as well and you can capture pictures to tape and dump them into your editing software later. Who needs a memory card? This is just a great camera. Firewire/USB capabilities, Memory Card slot (if necessary)Easy to use controls, and so much more. This is a nice camera that doesn't lack in features.