Panasonic Announces World's First 70X Camcorder

On Wednesday, Panasonic announced 19 new camcorders, from as low as $299.95 for a standard-definition camcorder and up to $1,399.95 for the most expensive high-definition model. The most interesting new camcorders included a waterproof standard-definition camcorder, a high-definition model with a "twin memory" feature and the introduction of the world's first standard definition camcorder with a 70X optical zoom.

The SDR-SW21 is Panasonic's new waterproof/shockproof standard-definition camcorder. The body of the unit is rugged enough to withstand a four-foot drop, and it can be submerged in 6.5 feet of water. The camcorder will record video to a removable SD memory card. Color choices will include silver, lime green and orange. The SDR-SW21 will retail for $399.95 in April.

Panasonic will also offer three standard-definition camcorders with 70x optical zoom: the SDR-H80, SDR-H90 and SDR-S26. The lens will be supported by optical image stabilization that can detect and combat shakes through a built-in gyro-sensor. The camcorders will offer a quick-start mode that allows them to turn on and begin recording in .08 seconds. They will also include Panasonic software called "VideoCam Suite" that will assist and expedite the process of uploading videos to YouTube. The camcorders will be available in April; pricing was not announced. (full Story)

Panasonic 3DHD: Decent 3D Video That's As Impractical As Any 3D Ever

After the press conference blitz of today, I snuck off to Panasonic's booth (still under construction) to check out their 3DHD technology—a 3D plasma screen that runs in true 1080p.

Before you read any further, I'll answer that nagging question. Yes, you need to wear special glasses.

The demo system starts with a retrofitted 103-inch Panasonic plasma. Coupled with active shutter glasses, a Blu-ray player feeds a 120fps 1080P signal to the television. 60fps are for the right eye while the other 60fps are for the left. IR syncs the glasses to the Blu-ray player to the TV, and presto, 3D magic is made.

So how's it look?

Good. It is sharp, I'll give Panasonic that. 60fps per eye means that the 3D image isn't created through some cheap interlacing effect that would kill the resolution. Watching highlights of the Beijing Olympics opening ceremonies (captured on dual lens 3D cameras), I was really impressed by the endless lines of drummers popping off the screen without the hokey feel of most 3D. A basketball game was equally impressive. It was like watching a perfectly photo-realistic NBA video game, minus the canned animations. (full Story)