Most of us have seen the GS400 pics and noticed how wide its front lens element is. I do have my doubts, however, until I have actually looked the cam over, but then again all the pics so far show a big lens. I always say, if you have a big one, flaunt it---no need to be ashamed, and maybe Pana is doing exactly that. Here is my question. Does a lens with a wider front lens element, not with F-stop, aid in getting more light to the CCDs? If the cam has one of those double blade iris things, with auto NDs, would the larger lens even make a difference?

From another perspective, does JVC's F1.2 "Bright Lens" make a difference?