Press Releases

Panasonic 2010 Holiday Gift Guide!

As a service to our camera manufacturers, and to thank them for their support, we publish every year a list of cameras and other products they propose as the perfect gifts for the coming holidays. Note that this is their list, not necessarily our recommendations.

The list is interesting and serves two useful purposes for our readers:
1) it tells us what a particular camera manufacturer is pushing — hence what will be readily available in the stores;
2) it updates the prices — allowing those who are price conscious to make informed comparisons.

The links in the Gift Guide point to the manufacturer’s site, where you can obtain up-to-date specs and information. Of course, we appreciate your support if you purchase from one of our sponsors.

Today, we present…

Panasonic 2010 Holiday Gift Guide

SHUTTERBUG SWEETSPOTS

DMC-G2 Lumix® G Micro system camera with touch panel – $799.99
The perfect gift for: The camera aficionado or the budding professional photographer

  • This camera features a host of advanced functions including HD video capabilities, and high-quality still images with a versatile zoom range of 14-42mm making it suitable for shooting a wide-range of scenes, from dynamic landscape to portrait
  • Using the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, beginner users choose the best optimization according to the scene in both photo and video recording
  • The ingenious touch-control LCD allows users to view and operate menus, select focus areas and even select specific points for focus and exposure just by touching the screen
  • A firmware upgrade will be available in mid-November to make this camera 3D-ready when used with Panasonic’s HF-T012 3D lens (available later this year)

DMC-FH20 LUMIX Digital Camera – $199.99
The perfect gift for: on-the-go and no time to spare

  • Available in black, red and silver, this slim, pocket-sized LUMIX FH-series camera packs a 2.7-inch LCD screen and a 28mm wide-angle lens with 8x optical zoom – perfect for taking pictures on-the-go
  • Intelligent auto mode automatically adjusts a number of the camera’s settings so your photos are balanced and focused every time
  • High Definition video (720p motion jpeg video recording) is only a touch of the button away and results in crystal clear footage that can easily be uploaded to the family computer or to YouTube using the built-in YouTube uploader

DMC-ZS7 LUMIX Digital Camera – $399.99
The perfect gift for: the traveller (pair with maps of unexplored lands for the perfect gift)

  • Available in black, silver and blue, this 12.1 megapixel point-and-shoot packs a 3-inch Intelligent LCD, a 25 mm wide-angle Leica lens and an impressive 12x optical zoom in a compact body
  • Intelligent auto mode automatically adjusts a number of the camera’s settings so your photos are balanced and focused every time
  • A built in GPS determines latitude and longitude and automatically displays the location name on the LCD – even the names of famous sightseeing locations. Data is also recorded with the image, making it easy to sort photos by location at home

CREATIVE MOVIE MAKING – EASY AS PUMPKIN PIE!

HDC-TM700K High Definition 3MOS Camcorder – $999.99
The perfect gift for: Video enthusiasts looking for top-of-the line performance

  • This camcorder features a 35mm wide angle lens which is ideal for self portraits, indoor group shots and outdoor landscapes
  • The advanced 3MOS system produces vivid, true-to-life colours and excels in low light environments
  • Intelligent Zoom extends the 12x optical zoom to an even longer 18x Intelligent Zoom
  • 3-inch touch-screen LCD for easy navigation
  • Shoots 14.2-megapixel still images and 13.3-megapixel still images simultaneously with video
  • Records data to Memory Cards and has a built-in memory of 32GB

SDRH85K SD Camcorder – $399.99
The perfect gift for: A couple with a new baby or an upgrade for grand-dad

  • The camcorder’s wide-angle lens and powerful 78x ultra zoom ideal for versatile video capturing
  • Active Mode helps suppress blur even if the user is moving or when zooming
  • Advanced O.I.S. detects and corrects hand-shake at a rate of 4,000 times per second to help capture stable images
  • Records to an 80 GB hard disk drive (can store more than 74 hours of data). As well as to SDXC, SDHC, or SD memory cards
  • The H85 is available in black, blue and red

HM-TA1 Pocket Sized Camcorder – $199.99
The perfect gift for: University students, travel buffs and those with out-of-town family members

  • Portable pocket sized camcorder captures special moments anywhere at any time
  • Built-in SKYPE compatibility means staying in touch with out-of-town friends and family is quick and easy
  • Three colour effects including Sepia, Black & White and Soft Skin, allow for fun and creative video capture
  • Will be available in September in three fun colours – purple, dark grey and red – to suit any style!

HOT TVs TO TRIM THE TREE

TC-L22X2 – LCD TV with iPod Dock – $499.99
The perfect gift for: University and college students

  • This compact, 22-inch screen features a wide viewing angle to ensure clear images even when viewed from an angle
  • Loaded with features including a universal dock for iPod for easy playback of music and videos, VIERA Image Viewer for viewing photos or video on an SD card; VIERA Link that allows control of connected Panasonic products with a single remote; a PC and HDMI inputs and Game mode to optimize favourite games
  • ENERGY STAR® qualified

TC-L42D2 – LED Television with iPod Dock – $1,299.99
The perfect gift for: Mom, grandma and grandpa

  • With a Full HD screen, Intelligent Scene Controller and a 2,000,000:1 Dynamic contrast ratio, this LED LCD will display will wow viewers with its deep blacks and crisp, colourful images
  • This series comes packed with features including: Universal dock for iPod for easy playback of music and videos, VIERA Image Viewer for viewing photos or video on an SD card; VIERA Link that allows control of connected Panasonic products with a single remote; a PC input; three HDMI inputs; Game mode to optimize your favourite games
  • ENERGY STAR® qualified

3D DELIGHTS

TC-P65VT25 – Flagship Full HD 3D Television – $4,999.99
The perfect gift for: The entire family!

  • Panasonic’s full HD 3D entertainment experience also translates to the best picture in any dimension
  • This top-of-the-line series comes fully equipped with features including: VIERA CAST Internet TV; VIERA Image Viewer for viewing photos or video on an SD card; VIERA Link that allows control of connected Panasonic products with a single remote; a PC input; two USB Ports; THX certification and THX Movie Mode; 600Hz Sub-field Drive; and Infinite Black Pro display with 5,000,000:1 native contrast

HDC-SDT750 HD 3D Camcorder – $1,599.99
The perfect gift for: 3D enthusiasts, techies looking to try something new, the family videographer

  • The world’s first consumer 3D camcorder1
  • Records in full 1080p HD in AVCHD when the 3D conversion lens is unattached, and includes powerful features such as a 3MOS system and a 12x optical zoom.
  • Time Lapse Recording feature plays footage at an accelerated speed, similar to a fast-forward. By setting the recording to various intervals long scenes can be viewed in a reduced time period.
  • Offers a 5.1-channel audio recording sound system that uses five microphones. Voices are recorded from the front, right, left and are then played on a 5.1-channel home cinema system surrounding the listener with clear, detailed sound

1As a consumer camcorder with 3D conversion lens for the AVCHD standard (as of July 1, 2010).

DMP-BDT350 FULL HD 3D Blu-ray Player – $599.99
The perfect match for 3D Television

  • Delivers the ultimate Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD picture quality and brings the magic of a FULL HD 3D Movie experience to your living room
  • Ultimate digital and analog sound quality
  • Dynamic and Pure Sound – Built-in Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby® Digital Plus, DTS™-HD and DTS-Master Audio Essential; 96kHz Surround Remaster for all formats
  • Networking and Connectivity – VIERA Link™, VIERA CAST™; Compatible with BD-Live™ and BONUSVIEW™; Ethernet Terminal for BD-Live™; SD image viewer supports DivX®, DivX® HD, AVCHD, MPEG2 & JPEG (HD); SD Card slot supports: SD, SDHC, SDXC card types and dual USB inputs support: DivX®, DivX® HD, MP3, JPEG files

HIGH DEFINITION HOLIDAYS

DMP-BD65 Blu-ray Disc™ Player – $199.99
The perfect gift for: Movie lovers, first time Blu-ray purchasers

  • Breathtaking images and audio, stunning surround sound
  • Dynamic and Pure Sound – Built-in Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby® Digital Plus, DTS™-HD and DTS-Master Audio Essential; 96kHz Surround Remaster for all formats
  • Networking and Connectivity – VIERA Link™, VIERA CAST™; Compatible with BD-Live™ and BONUSVIEW™; Ethernet Terminal for BD-Live™; SD card slot supports AVCHD, MPEG2 & JPEG (HD); USB input supports MP3, JPEG (HD)
  • ECO Friendly – Auto power stand-by, Stand-by power save, ENERGY STAR® qualified

SC-BT230K 1000w Blu-ray Home Theatre System – $449.99
The perfect gift for: the man with the man cave

  • Featuring true cinema quality, Panasonic’s SC-BT230 offers 1000-watt 5.1 channel audio to provide high definition sound throughout the room
  • Made for iPods and works with iPhones, dads everywhere can use the Universal Dock to boost the volume of their playlists
  • This Blu-ray system also offers an SD memory card slot, USB port and Wi-Fi connectivity so everyone can enjoy seamless entertainment

HOT HOLIDAY GADGETS!

RP-HJF7 ZrO2 Couture Stereo Earphones – $69.99
The perfect gift for: Fashion conscious ladies, anyone who likes bling

  • These noise isolating earphones are available three sizes (XS, S, M)
  • ErgoFit ear pieces feature 1.1 carat cubic zirconia by Swarovski®
  • Cufflink inspired design in turquoise, onyx, amber and tourmaline
  • Brushed metallic finish with polished edge
  • Ductless design ideal for use with earrings

RP-SDW16GU1K GOLD Series SDHC Memory Cards with Class 10 speed – $149.99
A perfect gift for: Shutter bugs, amateur film makers, family movie buffs

  • Continuously record (write) large amounts without missing any shots or writing stops
  • Meets requirements of high resolution, consecutive and large HD video shooting
  • Writing speed range of 10MB – 22MB per second for large volume data
  • High-speed data transfer from card to PC

SC-SP100 Audio System for iPod – $149.99
The perfect gift for: Students, tweens

  • Compatible with both iPods* and iPhones*, the SC-SP100 audio system has a total output power of 20 watts
  • Featuring a dynamic bass with integrated subwoofer, this small system still delivers deep robust bass and clear sound in a compact body
  • Easily sync capabilities with iPods* or iPhones*, dad can transfer music to his iPod and update iPod data while it’s docked (SC-SP100 connects to a PC via USB)

* iPod/iPhone sold separately

SC-HC40 – Micro Stereo System with iPod Dock – $299.99
The perfect gift for: Friends and family who have small living spaces and want the versatility of a sound system that plays their iPod and CDs

  • Sound, style and innovation in a slim, sleek package
  • Powerful 40W compact audio system, integrating iPod/iPhone, CD and AM/FM radio tuner
  • Bluetooth capability allows users to wirelessly stream audio and answer iPhone calls through the stereo system
  • Integrated universal dock for iPod (playback and recharge)
  • Motorized power sliding door (2-way) for easy playback from iPod or CD
  • Digital synthesizer tuner, preset memory, Auto tuning
  • Energy Star® qualified

BQC01AKM40 Intelligent Charging System – $49.99
The perfect gift for: Friends who are always running out of batteries, kids that love battery operated toys

  • Individual LEDs indicate charge status while built-in sensors detect individual battery condition and alter charge rate accordingly
  • Built-in temperature control shuts charger off if battery becomes overheated – and automatically start the charging process once it has cooled down (up to 3 times)
  • World voltage adaptable means that batteries can be charged up on family vacations and built-in safety features keeps the whole family safe
  • Batteries can be charged up to 1200 times* and can charge and store for up to 365 days of standby power**
  • Switching to rechargeable batteries means fewer non-rechargeable in the waste stream

* IEC Standard 61951-2. Actual results may vary according to use
** IEC Standard 61951-2. Retains up to 80% capacity after 1 year in storage. Batteries stored at 20˚C

HEALTHY AND HAPPY AT HOME

EP-MS40ET/GK Iyashi Massage Chair – $3,299.99
The perfect gift for: Mom, dad or grandma & grandpa

  • A true Shiatsu massage in a stylish, compact chair
  • Air Ottoman System: kneads and loosens shin and calf muscles; then neatly folds away
  • Pre-programmed massages: Deep, Quick, Relax, Refresh / Manual programs: Neck & shoulder or Lower back
  • Features an auto body scanning system and reflexology function that stimulates massage points on your feet
  • Colours: green & black or taupe & dark brown

ES-LA63S Pro-Curve® Quadruple Blade Nano Technology Shaver – $349.99
The Perfect Gift For: any man in the family!

  • Featuring an ultra- thin vibrating outer foil, the ES-LA63S lifts the hair follicle for the closest shave possible
  • The flexible active head follows the contours of the face while the quadruple arc foil grasps and shaves each whisker in hard to reach areas like under the chin and jaw line, requiring less pressure which reduces irritation
  • 14,000 rpm linear motor to provide quick shaving with no reduction in power (even when shaving dense whiskers) or speed (even when the charge is depleted)
  • Get 45 minutes of use with a one hour charge – the large blue LCD screen indicates battery capacity, time used and charge status

NIW-750TS 360° Multi-directional Steam/Dry Iron – $69.99
The perfect gift for: Anyone who dislikes ironing

  • The iron’s “double point design” soleplate is slightly curved so movement in any direction is smooth and efficient making ironing up to 25% faster
  • The oversized soleplate allows precise control for smoothing collars, cuffs, and those difficult to reach areas around buttons
  • Each iron is equipped with a double rim of steam holes that edge the entire soleplate increasing steaming power– an exclusive feature to Panasonic 360° Quick Irons
  • The NI-W810CSN has a scratch-resistant ceramic-coated soleplate which is six times more durable than stainless steel and is available in champagne

KX-TG6552B Range Extender DECT Expandable Digital Cordless Answering System – $119.99
The perfect gift for: Families with multiple family members

  • Digital answering system silently records messages which are easily accessed via the base unit or handset
  • The new Range Extender doubles the effective transmission distance between the base unit and the cordless handset1 which means crystal clear sound during phone calls from all over the house
  • Unique Panasonic PLUS technology provides even better signal quality and range2
  • Intelligent ECO mode helps reduce power consumption when the handset is close to the base unit for extended talk time. Battery life on Talk is up to 13 hours when in ECO mode
  • Expandable up to 6 handsets3

1+2 When compared to our previous models
3 Requires optional accessory handsets sold separately.

NNSN790S Genius® Inverter® Stainless steel microwave oven – $279.99
The perfect gift for: mom – if she’s given her okay!

  • Stainless steel design with a blue LED display and menu action screen display that provides simple instructions to cook your favourite foods
  • This 1.6 cubic cubic foot microwave has 1200 W of output power and a child safety lock
  • One-touch Genius Sensor reheat and cook monitors steam levels within the microwave to ensure that food is cooked perfectly every time
  • Inverter® technology ensures meals are cooked evenly every time – which means no more undercooked food in the centre and hard, overcooked edges

EVOLTA Alkaline Batteries
The perfect gift for: moms (what mom doesn’t need long lasting batteries?), gadget-geeks

  • EVOLTA AA batteries hold a Guinness World Record™ for the longest lasting1 AA Alkaline battery in a wide range of devices.
  • Specifically designed to work with a variety of electronic devices ranging from low-middle-drain remote controls, portable radios and MP3 players to high-drain digital cameras and remote-control cars.
  • EVOLTA AA battery or AAA battery four-packs are available with a manufacturer’s suggested price (MSP) of $4.99. The AA or AAA eight-pack has an MSP of $8.99.

1 Based on ANSI and IEC testing (as of January 15, 2008)
© 2008 Guinness World Records Limited. GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS is a trade mark of Guinness World Records Limited.