Panasonic PVGS500 Digital Camcorder

[cedric]

I am thinking of buying the Panasonic PVGS500 Digital Camcorder....
http://www.pictureline.com/product.php?id=13505

I am looking for a Mac-friendly camcorder with 3CCD and a good price. This seems to be the best bet. However, I see that the software provided with the camcorder only works for Windows. Does this mean I would have a problem getting my movies imported into my Mac mini? Thanks!

 

[Mydriasis]

No problems with the software! Remember your on a mac, we don't have software problems.

It's a great camera for the price. Have fun with it.

 

[zim]

I own the Panasonic GS500. Great camera, great price, you won't be disappointed , it is one of my favorite cameras. As for editing, don't concern yourself with the software that it comes with, it is for windows and inferior to anything available to the Mac Remember to get yourself a firewire cable too (4 pin to 6 pin), can't remember if the camera comes with one.

I got mine from bhphoto.com. They have a kit deal that comes with an extra battery, bag, warranty (remember to register your warranties or else they are useless) etc. I recommend that you check them out: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/con...s&Q=&sku=423601&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

Happy filming

 

[p0intblank]

I actually just ordered myself the same model last night. It should be here by the end of this week. I did a lot of research before biting the bullet, so I'm pretty sure I will be very happy with it.

And as for software, you should already have iMovie on your Mac. That's what I plan to use in the beginning and then I will upgrade to Final Cut Express HD in a little while. It can be had for only $150 with the educational discount.

 

[Le Big Mac]

No problems with the software! Remember your on a mac, we don't have software problems.

It's a great camera for the price. Have fun with it.

I have an earlier version of that. the 120 (I believe). I've had no problems with the mac, despite the lack of software and the near total lack of description in the owner's manual. Fortunately, just plug in and iMovie takes care of the rest.

 

[cedric]

Thanks to all for the feedback. I got it for $489 plus tax. It will be here in three days. After that, I expect to have a few questions for you "old pros" about how to use it!

 

[Wince99]

Thanks to all for the feedback. I got it for $489 plus tax. It will be here in three days. After that, I expect to have a few questions for you "old pros" about how to use it!

If you need help with your camera, visit :

http://www.pana3ccduser.com/

You will find many tips on how to use it. I have a PV-GS 120 and am quite happy with it.

Have fun

 

[paajichele]

I'm a proud new owner of a Mac Book Aluminum 13". New Mac user. Totally loving the experience. Having a little trouble getting the GS500 to be recognized by the Mac. After reading a few messageboards, I realized that the camera connects to Mac via firewire, which the new Macbooks don't offer anymore. Any suggestions on how to get around this?

 

[zim]

I'm a proud new owner of a Mac Book Aluminum 13". New Mac user. Totally loving the experience. Having a little trouble getting the GS500 to be recognized by the Mac. After reading a few messageboards, I realized that the camera connects to Mac via firewire, which the new Macbooks don't offer anymore. Any suggestions on how to get around this?

I think that the best solution is to get an box similar to what Pinnacle sells. You could then use the cables that you would connect to your TV.

I have also read about firewire to USB converter cables but I don't think they work on Mac's... at least the article that I read suggested that they do not.