I have just seen this item coming out from Deals Direct's new product RSS feed. Panasonic SDR-H40 Video Camera is on sale for $499, consider it has only been announced last week. I can't seem to be able to find useful reviews on the net, but the spec looks impressive for an under $500 video camera.
- 40GB HDD
- 42x optical zoom
- 2.7" LCD
- USB out directly to DVD burner
Here is the description from the Panasonic website:
Perfect for capturing your most important memories, the SDR-H40 boasts Panasonic's Advanced MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), which detects and corrects hand-shake approximately 4,000 times per second, which is about eight times more effective than Panasonic’s previous systems. The SDR-H40 also offers 42x optical zoom so you can always get a great shot, even from a distance.
Record to either SD (or SDHC) memory cards or to the built-in 40 GB HDD, which features enough storage space for up to 36 hours of footage. The SDR-H40 also feature an Anti-Shock Shield that helps protect the built-in hard disk from external impact, making it suitable for rugged conditions.
Consider Amazon is selling it for USD$449, AUD$499 from Deals Direct seems to be a very good deal.
Deals Direct also have Panasonic HDC-DX1 High Definition 1080i Video Camera for $769 (+$10 delivery). This camera is around 1 year old but cheap for a high-def.
The only concern is that these are parallel imported by Deals Direct, i.e. not through a distributor thus only 30 day warranty.
I'd buy one straight away if it had 12 months warranty and was certain it was covered by Panasonic Australia….DARN!!