The smallest and lightest three-CCD HD camcorder currently available is the Panasonic HDC-SD1, a sleek and ultraportable device that records to SD or SDHC memory cards using the new AVCHD format. AVCHD records at 1,080i and 720p using the MPEG4 AVC video codec and Dolby Digital or Linear PCM audio codec. Put simply, the HDC-SD1 delivers stunning high-definition video images and matching multichannel audio from a very compact package. A Leica Dicomar 12X optical zoom lens completes an impressive optical suite. The resulting images display not only in high resolution, but they express excellent color accuracy and saturation as well.

The HDC-SD1 utilizes five condenser microphones to enable 5.1-channel audio. Play your recordings back on a widescreen HDTV with surround sound, and the HDC-SD1 delivers impressive audio and video results. Of course, such a small camcorder demands some compromises. The included 4GB SDHC Class 2 memory card stores about 40 minutes of video at the highest quality setting, which falls well short of similarly equipped hard-disk HD camcorders. You'll likely want to invest in additional memory cards. The included battery has a similar short life, although an optional high-capacity battery is available. These additional expenses should be taken into consideration when comparing potential HD camcorder purchases.

Given the low tolerance for soft focus when shooting in HD, you'll achieve better results using the HDC-SD1's 3-inch LCD screen and the focus assist feature, as opposed to the small electronic viewfinder. The focus assist enlarges the center of the image when manually focusing, making it easier to achieve sharp images. However, we prefer JVC's version of focus assist, which doesn't limit you to focusing only in the center of the frame.

In addition to excellent manual controls, the HDC-SD1 has a host of automatic controls for point-and-shoot simplicity. The joystick control is straightforward to master, and the menu system is pleasantly intuitive. The HDC-SD1 can double as a digital stills camera, capturing useable if not spectacular 2.1-megapixel images.

Unfortunately, due to the newness of the AVCHD format, video editing software options are extremely limited. The included software bundle is basic and will likely prove inadequate to everyone but novice users, and it is not compatible with Macs. As HD camcorders become more popular, hopefully more third-party software will become available. In the meantime, the Panasonic HDC-SD1 is appealing if you seek the superior performance of an HD camcorder coupled with a compact and lightweight design.


Pros:  Smallest and lightest three-CCD HD camcorder currently available, records AVCHD to memory card, good array of manual controls, optical image stabilization
Cons:  Disappointing battery life, limited editing options, included 4GB SDHC card holds only about 40 minutes of HD recordings

Warranty
1 year parts and labor