On 4 Mar 2002 16:27:32 +1100, Tim O'Connor wrote:

>Jacques Ciana wrote:
>> I tested both camcorders and finally bought the more expensive MX300 (PAL)
>> because I felt it has better color rendering specially in the reds, which is
>> the weak point on the Sony. Adding to that, it has a much higher resolution
>> in still picture (1568x1152 versus 640x480) which gives the possibility to
>> print pretty good 4"x5" pictures. The Pana has greater flexibility also.
>> Both scopes are indeed excellent and I suggest to "would be buyers" to test
>> both units under same conditions. If he finds that the Sony is a better
>> choice, as Mr. Neuman-Reuther found after having tested both probably, it's
>> okay with me, I have no stock on Panasonic & Co!

>Ive checked out a page that had some sample still images
>taken by a range of cam-corders, and I was shocked by how pathetic
>they were...The MX300 was extremely poor in this regard, so I wouldnt
>be using that as a selling point :-)
>
>When they are re-sized to 640x480 they dont look so bad though.

With the two "megapixel" Sony one-chip sized stills
(1.2 and 1.5), I find that stills at these maximum
sizes have considerable color noise; the ones shot at
640x480 (NTSC) look much better, though they are then
too small to print well. The camcorder stills appear
best used for web work, where they look good, but not
for making high-quality paper prints...