The 4-pound, hand-held AG-DVX100B boasts new specifications that are tailor-made for full-fledged video production. For instance, it is the industry's first DV camcorder to allow camera-to-camera time-code syncho and user-settable file transfer over IEEE 1394, facilitating the AG-DVX100B's use in simultaneous, multi-camera shoots.

Other innovations include 16:9 Letter-box Display Mode on the large electronic viewfinder (EVF) and 3.5" color LCD monitor for distortion-free Squeeze Mode or Anamorphic Display; Remote Control of Focus and Iris (wired) for easier operation when mounted on a jib or tripod; Single Button Character Off for LCD and EVF displays; improved Video S/N for better low light recording; and higher resolution LCD (210,000 pixels) and EVF (235,000 pixels) monitors.

Other key improvements include: a more sensitive on-camera mic; the re-location of the speaker to nearer the LCD screen to make audio easier to hear during playback; slower middle zoom speed; a heavier duty, easily replacement tripod connection; audio off tape or live E-E mode for delay free (echo free) monitoring; an End Search Camera Function to speed up search; a "what you see is what you get" image in the LCD and EVF; a new design for the scene file dial's rib protector to prevent unintentional file changes; a color drop-down display mode for menu choices; and a new color (Black Sapphire).

The camcorder's standard accessories include a CGR-D54 battery, AC adapter/charger, microphone holder, remote control, shoulder strap, lens cap, cleaning tape and instruction manual. Incorporating exclusive CineSwitch technology that supports 480i/60 (NTSC), cinema-style 480p/24fps and 480p/30fps image capture, Panasonic's DVX100 series of mini-DV camcorders has set the standard for affordable 24p acquisition and been proven performers with hundreds of independent movies, TV programs, commercials, and documentaries to their credit. Like its predecessor, the 1/3" 3-CCD AG-DVX100B offers outstanding audio performance, extensive auto and manual controls, and a CineGamma curve designed to emulate the rich look of film.

The AG-DVX100B is available at a suggested list price of $3,995. For more information, visit http://www.panasonic.com/dvcinema.

Also available is the AG-DVX100BSerious production package consisting of the AG-DVX100B, Serious Magic DV Rack software, and a Kata EFP bag.