Noise

[homer]

I currently have a FZ3 and am considering getting the new FZ30, one thing that is bothering me are posts about Panasonic generally have bad noise characteristics. The preliminiary things I have seen on the FZ30 are that it is improved but still lacking (for what its worth).

Can someone comment on this, especially how Panasonic stacks up against other similiar cameras.

Any good links on noise in general would be appreciated.

[TheObiJuan]

I can speak for the fz20, the noise at ISO400 is not bad for a consumer point and shoot. The thing is that with good image stabilization and a fast f/2.8 constant aperture, except for extreme low light, you are well off.