Product Description

The GZ-MC500 Digital Media Camera is a proud member of the JVC Everio family -camcorders that record onto a hard disk. Like the older single-CCD Everio camcorders, the GZ-MC500 records 60 minutes of DVD-quality video or thousands of photo-quality stills to a Microdrive™ removable hard disk. With this Everio, JVC combines these benefits with 3-CCD/5-megapixel performance. ... Read more

Features

• Easy printing with "PictBridge" and DPOF support
• Microdrive / CompactFlash card and SD dual card type II slots for extra data storage and transfer
• Megabrid engine assures optimum quality for both video and still images
• User-friendly GUI for easy operation and setting
• Thumbnail picture for easy and quick viewing

Product Description

JVC GR-D270US, MINI DV CAMCORDER WITH 2.5 LCD & SOFTWARE ... Read more

Features

• Captures 1,024 x 768 digital stills to Secure Digital memory card (not included)
• Real-time slow motion recording; NightAlive function for shooting in low-light conditions
• Data Battery function that displays battery power and calculates remaining recording time
• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder with 25x optical zoom/800x digital zoom
• 680K pixel CCD with 340K effective pixels for video

Reviews (1)

Works well, price is right
I spent hours on-line trying to select a camcorder from an overwhelming multitude. The important considerations for me were:

- PC connectivity
- Price
- At least decent video and audio quality
- Battery life, size and everything else

This JVC is a success in all these parameters.

- I had no trouble at all connecting to a wintel PC. I have a cheap no-name lash-up desktop box, a $15 firewire card, a generic $5 firewire cable, and XP. I am relieved to report it all worked first time, because connectivity problems are apparently common with all camera brands (including JVC).

- This is one of the cheaper miniDV machines, so the price was right.

- Video quality, for an uncritical amateur like me, is plenty good enough. And there is apparently wide-spread opinion that JVCs are better than average in low-light conditions.

- Audio quality, again good enough. There is definitely some motor noise breakthrough with the built-in mike that interferes with quiet pastoral scenes.

- Battery life with the supplied battery is approx 1 hour. Since JVC batteries are upwards of $80, I will be buying cheap generic knock-offs in the $30 range.

- The supplied USB cable is for downloading pictures from the snapshot and webcam mode. It is worthless for transferring video. Snapshots are inferior to my aged Canon Elph.

If a buddy could have told me here was a camera that worked OK with my computer, and was otherwise decent and affordable, I could have saved hours of research.

EDIT 1: Still 4 stars, but I would have exchanged some of that 25x tele for some more wide-angle. Also, the zoom mechanism is a bit abrupt, it is difficult to get a smooth zooming action. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Still images or video--capture either 60 minutes of DVD-quality MPEG-2 movies or thousands of super-high resolution UXGA-size JPEG pictures with the Everio--the first camera to use Microdrive technology. The included 4GB Microdrive card, though it is the same size as Compact Flash card, has such unprecedented capacity because it is has its own built-in HDD (hard disk drive).

The completely tapeless Microdrive format lets you choose higher video quality or longer shooting times.

Store more photos than you ever thought possible on the included 4GB Microdrive card.

Until now, tapeless formats have been severely limited in the length and quality of video capacity, but the Everio's Microdrive lets you shoot up to 60 minutes of high quality MPEG-2 video--and even more in lower resolution modes.A selection of recording modes lets you choose more quality or more shooting time. The highest quality ULTRA mode records at a constant bit rate of 8.88 Mbps with AC 3 audio -- comparable to the DVD data rate (average 4 Mbps video/9.8 Mbps maximum). Essentially what you get is DVD quality, with the same video and audio format as a movie DVD. And the number of still photos that will fit on the Microdrive card is nothing less than awe-inspiring: More than 5000 of the highest resolution images (1600x1200 fine).

2.12 Megapixel CCD
This 1/3.6" CCD with a total of 2.12 million pixels (effective: 1.23 million for moving pictures, 2 million for still pictures) offers the high resolution capabilities needed for high quality digital videography and photography. And the Megabrid Engine applies separate, optimized processing to moving and still images, for videos with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and high-resolution still pictures.

Versatile, Lossless Data
Store what you've shot on the provided Microdrive card, optional CompactFlash or SD Memory Cards. size as a CompactFlash card, but with many Gigabytes of capacity. You can eject the Microdrive card, just as you would a CompactFlash or SD Memory Card, and load data into your PC via optional card adapter. Or simply connect the camera via its USB2.0 interface for quick downloading to a PC. All transfer is digital-to-digital, so you won't lose any quality in the process.

DVD Creation & Sharing

Three advanced applications are provided: Power Producer offers easy saving (authoring) of your video clips in any order to DVD, even right from a USB-connected camera, so you can share your original DVDs with anybody who owns a DVD player. Power Director offers feature-rich non-linear editing so you can flex your creative muscle with titles, effects, and even mix still with videos. Power DVD for easy video clip and DVD playback with AC 3 audio.

Multi-Format Support
In addition to making it easy to create DVDs, the supplied software converts to a variety of file formats for distribution via the Web or by e-mail. Supported formats include DV-AVI, Windows-AVI, MPEG-1 and MPEG-2, as well as Windows Media Video and RealVideo that can be streamed over the Internet. ... Read more

Features

• The first camera to use Microdrive technology
• Includes a 4GB Microdrive card that can hold 60 minutes of DVD-quality video or more than 5000 high resolution still images
• Completely tapeless format for a ultra-compact, lightweight body
• Includes software for easy video editing and DVD creation
• Also supports CompactFlash and SD Memory Cards, USB2.0, DV-AVI,Windows-AVI, MPEG-1 and MPEG-2, Windows Media Video, and RealVideo

Product Description

Preserve life's precious moments with this capable camcorder. The GRD295 has powerful features like a 25x optical zoom, 2.5 inch LCD monitor and Night Alive for full color shooting in exteme low light situations. A multi-function remote control, 800x digital zoom and a digital picture stabilizer are but a few of its other great features. ... Read more

Features

• Web-camera function (via IEEE 1394), digital still capture, includes two data batteries, NightAlive
• Power-linked operation, full function remote control
• Multi-language on-screen (4-language)
• 1/6-inch 680,000 pixel CCD, f1.8 to f3.2, 25x optical / 800x digital zoom, 520 lines of resolution, 2.5 inch LCD monitor
• Color viewfinder, DV in / out, HG digital stills (up to 1024 x 768 pixels), LiveSlow, auto illumination light

Reviews (1)

Happy to have waited for this one!!!!
Wanted to buy a new Cam at the first of the year but waited on the newer models to arrive. I was looking at Canon's Z300, Sony's HC32, and JVC's 295. I think each has it strong points but in the end it was JVC's zoom, extra battery, great night vison, and crystal clear quality that lead me here. I love this thing. No problems xfering to pc using firewire. Battery life is above average at 1:39... Usable also as a Web Cam..(great quality) All this for $378....cheaper than z300 at $419 and Sony HC32 at $450 ... Read more

Product Description

JVC Company of America (GRD250) MiniDV Digital Camcorder ... Read more

Features

• Captures digital stills to tape
• NightAlive function for shooting in low-light conditions
• Data Battery function that displays battery power and calculates remaining recording time
• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder with 25x optical zoom/800x digital zoom
• 680K pixel CCD with 340K effective pixels for video

Reviews (1)

A nice piece of work from JVC
Of course like any person who spends 300 bucks on something you expect it to perform admirably, while knowing full well that there are more expensive models out there.This little DV camera does quite the job.Starting from the packing all the way down to the technical features.In a world were you get less and less JVC seems to have done pretty well.Instructions for the camera come in 3 languages, all of the peripherals; lens cap, multi-voltage power plug, RCA cables, and straps are actually well designed and usable. The camera itself is quite user friendly, and intuitive. After opening and sorting the contents I had the camera up and recording in less than 5 minutes.

Pros:

1. Very fast rewind and fast forward.
2. Light weight, and compact.
3. Clear display that you can turn and flip in almost every direction
4. Great zoom features and very good recording quality.

Cons:

1. No DV tape included.I was smart enough to pick up a two pack at the same time.
2. If you have big hands it may be a little hard to manipulate.
3. Although I didn't buy a tripod, it looks as if you can't eject the tape while the camera is attached.

Would I buy it again? Absolutely. ... Read more

Features

• 16x optical zoom lens (700x digital zoom) and digital image stabilizer
• Crystal View rotating 2.5-inch High Resolution LCD, to reduce glare and reflections from the LCD screen
• Built-in auto light using twin LED lights for 1/10th the power consumption and SD/MMC card slot
• BN-V408U 800 mAh Lithium-ion, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack; camera has built-in battery charger

Reviews (12)

Best camcorder under $600
I spent over 20 hours researching my recent camcorder purchase. The best site was camcorderinfo.com. In fact, they just posted a thorough review of the GRD72 and also have reviews of one model down (D33) and one model up (D93) from this one. Also be sure to check out the competing models' reviews (Sony and Canon).

What I was looking for in a camcorder, was, surprise surprise (!) good video performance in a range of lighting conditions. I had read that low-light performance on ALL so-called consumer camcorders was very poor. The D72 (and D33) have the best low-light performance of ANY camcorder priced $600 or less! That's saying a ton considering these models sell for almost half of that! Seriously, check out the Sony HC20, 30, or 40 and the D72 beats them all! Plus it has decent still image capability, includes LED lights, and has analog-to-digital passthrough. Can't be beaten! What a deal!

Super easy to use and great video - what more could you want? Some of the other reviews on amazon for the D72 seem bizarre and based only on the software that comes with the camera. You likely won't use the software that comes with ANY camcorder you buy. What do you want out of your camcorder? Good video performance, versatiliy, and ease of use are the only criteria that matter! Dig around on the Internet for reviews of other models to convince yourself, but if you take this reviewer's advice alone, you'll save yourself a dozen hours of work! :-)

Reasonably priced mini-DV camcorder
Unlike others, the JVC software loaded without a hitch, but as reported by others, it leaves alot to be desired. I am waiting on a new laptop to retest with FireWire and my copy of Magix Movie Edit Pro 2004.

The sales girl at BestBuy claimed it would record video to the SD card, but that was not correct. I have also been unable to download video at higher than 320x240 res. I am hoping the FireWire fixes some of this.

The real user of this camera will be my wife and the point and shoot simplicity is a must. She will be using it to record people during speech therapy and the remote control will be a handy plus.

PS. I find it rather strange that they do not include a tape and/or a small SD ram card.

Very pleased so far!
I've only had this camera for a week now, but I'm very pleased with what I got for the price. I have a degree in cinema & photography, so I like to think I know a few things about cameras.

PROS

Nearly all the controls can be manipulated with one hand, thanks to the scroll wheel. Pushing it in brings up the menu, and scrolling the wheel allows you to select the menus and features you want to change. Another push of the wheel selects the menu item you want to change. This is a great feature that pretty much sold me on the camera, as the Sonys rely on a touch-pad LCD. The trouble with that is you must have the LCD screen out whenever you want to alter a setting, and therefore you have to take the camera away from your eye and use both hands. You also use up your battery twice as fast, and you'll eventually wear out the LCD screen and get it dirty. No thanks, Sony.

It also has a built-in LED light for low-light shooting. This doesn't compare to the infra-red of the Sonys, but then again infra-red gives you a green "night-vision" picture. If low-light shooting is important to you and you don't mind the greenish video, then go with infra-red.

It uses a separate SD memory card for digital stills (card not included).

The viewfinder is color, not b&w like some camcorders.

Analog-to-digital pass-through for converting your old analog tapes (VHS, etc.)

Remote control included! Big plus in my book.

It has a bigger lens than the Sonys (but still not as big as the Canons). This should result in better picture quality; however, it does make the camcorder slightly larger and heavier than the Sonys.

The optical zoom is 16x, versus 10x on the Sonys. (Canon even has a camcorder with 22x zoom.)

JVC bundles MovieWOW software for editing your videos. I haven't used it yet, but it's a freebie so it's worth trying out. You can also download Microsoft's Movie Maker software for free if you don't like MovieWOW.

At less than $400 it's the best value out there. (...) CONS

The viewfinder doesn't tilt up -- strange that JVC wouldn't incorporate this feature, as it would be a big plus. I'm over 6' tall, so when the camcorder is mounted on a 5' tripod I have to stoop to look through the viewfinder. (Yes, I can pop out the LCD screen and angle it up to view the picture instead, but this eats up battery power as I said. I could also get a 6' tripod, I suppose.)

There's no hot shoe on top to mount an external microphone or flood light -- another oversight on JVC's part.

No included SD memory card for digital stills. Oddly, you can only select "tape" or "tape & SD" for capturing stills, so either way it's going to record the still to tape. Why JVC didn't give you the option of writing stills strictly to the SD card is beyond me. No matter -- the stills any camcorder takes are low-resolution, so if you want good digital stills then buy a digital still camera instead.

Image stabilization is disappointing, but that's true with all the camcorders I tried out. It's somewhat helpful, but it's certainly not going to turn your camcorder into a Steadicam. Use a tripod when at high zoom levels, or keep the lens as wide as possible when hand-holding to smooth out your tilts and pans.

Night vision mode slows down the shutter speed, making your video a bit choppy.

OTHER ADVICE

Go to a camera or electronics store and try out the different cameras before making a decision. You might be surprised by the features you hate and the ones you love. This is what steered me away from the Sonys and to this JVC model.

Turn off the digital zoom -- it's worthless (this is true of any camcorder).

Make sure you add on a UV filter, if only to protect the lens. This should be standard issue for all camcorders.

Also consider a polarizing filter for sunny outdoors shooting -- makes a big difference.

A flourescent filter is a good idea if you will be shooting indoors where flourescent light dominates (office or industrial settings, for instance).

If zoom is important to you, consider adding on a 2x or even 3x telephoto multiplier. This will turn your 16x zoom in a 32x zoom, or 48x zoom, respectively. But be warned -- at those zoom levels, you'd better have a rock-solid tripod to keep the picture as steady as possible.

You need a firewire connection to your computer to get the best transfers. If you don't have firewire on your commputer, you'll need to buy an add-in card.

Enjoy!

Cheap for the price
Great camera for the price....no problems with the camera so far.... good quality picture

the stills are decent too....with the money i saved, i can get an excellent still camera :)

What a disappointment!
Wow, after reading the previous reviews on this camera I thought it must be a pretty good deal. Boy was I wrong! I've had the camera about a week and think I may have made a bad choice in going back to JVC. MiniDV cameras are supposed to be better than Hi8, but I really can't see it with this camera.

Here are my complaints. The video quality leaves much to be desired; it actually looks quite "fuzzy" (even in SP mode) giving the video a look of pixelation or tiling. Digital stills are really lousy, which I expected from a camcorder. The NightAlive feature is useless, unless you have a tripod on which to steady the camera, and even then don't expect to see much. For example, I tried to take some video of my backyard at night, under a full moon and some ambient light and the camera couldn't pick up anything further than 2-3 feet away from the lens. By comparision, one of my relatives has a Digital8 Sony camcorder and the night vision feature on that camera is fantastic and the camera cost him less. As other reviewers have noted, the motor is loud and clearly audible on recordings with little ambient noise. Finally, the included battery lasts about 1.5 hours.

On the good side, the camera is quite small, but that is hardly a selling point for MiniDV cameras are all quite small. Frankly, I see nothing to set this camera apart and think I'm going to exchange it for (hopefully) a better one. ... Read more

Features

• Digital VHS recorder archives high-definition, standard, and analog sources
• Connects to HDTV (1080i and 720p) through HDMI connector or component output
• Records up to 3.5 hours of HD content and 35 hours of analog content on single cassette
• 2 iLink terminals, component output, 2 S-video outputs and 1 input, and 2 AV inputs and 2 outputs
• 5.1 Dolby Digital/DTS optical output for multichannel soundtracks; MTS stereo

Product Description

THe GRDF-550 model offers a Live Slow feature that makes it possible to record slow motion images and play them back with real-time sound. Footage shot at normal speed can be played back in slow motion with real-time sound. Live Slow is available in all of JVC newcamcorders with the exception of the Compact Series GR-D250 and Ultra-Compact Series GR-DF430.The Ultra-Compact Series' Low Light Plus uses an F1.2 Aspherical Super Bright lens, which offers 2.3 times the brightness of an F1.8 lens and 1.8 times the brightness of an F1.6 lens.That performance is enhanced by 3D noise reduction that delivers a 2dB improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio and reduces video noise by approximately 30 percent.Flicker is eliminated and color reproduction is improved. At the top of the series is the GR-DF550, which uses Megabrid technology assuring high sensitivity and a high signal-to-noise ratio for video and clear, high resolution progressive still images.All new JVC Mini DV camcorders feature the one-touch convenience of the new Data Battery function that displays battery power and calculates remaining recording time with the power on or off.A Clear-View LCD monitor suppresses diffusion of internal light to deliver a brighter, clearer image, and reduces reflection and glare from external light so images are always clearly visible even when shooting outdoors in bright sunlight.All JVC Mini DV camcorders feature a Super High-Band ... Read more

Features

• Live Slow feature records in slow-motion mode and plays back with real-time sound
• Megabrid engine assures optimum quality for both video and still images
• Super High-Band processor records at 520 lines horizontal resolution
• 30-percent less noise with 3D noise reduction technology
• New F1.2 super bright lens with 15x powerful optical zoom

Reviews (2)

Single CCD
In response to Mehul Bavishi, this is not a 3CCD camcorder.According to their literature, it is a single 1/4.5" CCD.

Best priced 3 CCD camera in the market !!!
I had one of earlier 1 CCD JVC camcorder GRDX25 which I purchased about 1 and half years back from europe. This one is far superior to that with a very good night alive shooting mode and a flash light is added bonus. 3 CCD camera at such low price is really unbelievable.

I am not a professional but love to shoot while I go around places and this one is by far the most wonderful camcorder I have seen.

The 1.3 Megapixel camera is a real good bonus.

I would recommend the camcorder to anyone who wants to capture the memories of their dear ones but does not want to spend too much.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Still images or video--capture either 60 minutes of DVD-quality MPEG-2 movies or thousands of super-high resolution UXGA-size JPEG pictures with the Everio--the first camera to use Microdrive technology. The included 4GB Microdrive card, though it is the same size as Compact Flash card, has such unprecedented capacity because it is has its own built-in HDD (hard disk drive).

The completely tapeless Microdrive format lets you choose higher video quality or longer shooting times.

Store more photos than you ever thought possible on the included 4GB Microdrive card.

Until now, tapeless formats have been severely limited in the length and quality of video capacity, but the Everio's Microdrive lets you shoot up to 60 minutes of high quality MPEG-2 video--and even more in lower resolution modes.A selection of recording modes lets you choose more quality or more shooting time. The highest quality ULTRA mode records at a constant bit rate of 8.88 Mbps with AC 3 audio -- comparable to the DVD data rate (average 4 Mbps video/9.8 Mbps maximum). Essentially what you get is DVD quality, with the same video and audio format as a movie DVD. And the number of still photos that will fit on the Microdrive card is nothing less than awe-inspiring: More than 5000 of the highest resolution images (1600x1200 fine).

2.12 Megapixel CCD
This 1/3.6" CCD with a total of 2.12 million pixels (effective: 1.23 million for moving pictures, 2 million for still pictures) offers the high resolution capabilities needed for high quality digital videography and photography. And the Megabrid Engine applies separate, optimized processing to moving and still images, for videos with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and high-resolution still pictures.

Versatile, Lossless Data
Store what you've shot on the provided Microdrive card, optional CompactFlash or SD Memory Cards. size as a CompactFlash card, but with many Gigabytes of capacity. You can eject the Microdrive card, just as you would a CompactFlash or SD Memory Card, and load data into your PC via optional card adapter. Or simply connect the camera via its USB2.0 interface for quick downloading to a PC. All transfer is digital-to-digital, so you won't lose any quality in the process.

DVD Creation & Sharing

Three advanced applications are provided: Power Producer offers easy saving (authoring) of your video clips in any order to DVD, even right from a USB-connected camera, so you can share your original DVDs with anybody who owns a DVD player. Power Director offers feature-rich non-linear editing so you can flex your creative muscle with titles, effects, and even mix still with videos. Power DVD for easy video clip and DVD playback with AC 3 audio.

Multi-Format Support
In addition to making it easy to create DVDs, the supplied software converts to a variety of file formats for distribution via the Web or by e-mail. Supported formats include DV-AVI, Windows-AVI, MPEG-1 and MPEG-2, as well as Windows Media Video and RealVideo that can be streamed over the Internet. ... Read more

Features

• The first camera to use Microdrive technology
• Includes a 4GB Microdrive card that can hold 60 minutes of DVD-quality video or more than 5000 high resolution still images
• Completely tapeless format for a ultra-compact, lightweight body
• Includes software for easy video editing and DVD creation
• Also supports CompactFlash and SD Memory Cards, USB2.0, DV-AVI,Windows-AVI, MPEG-1 and MPEG-2, Windows Media Video, and RealVideo

Features

• Professional-quality High-Definition DV camcorder and still camera with1.18-megapixel progressive scan CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 200x) with Picture Stabilizer for shooting without blur from camera motion when zoomed
• 3.5-inch rotating color polycrystalline silicon LCD and color LCD viewfinder
• Info-Shoe for a variety of optional attachments such as an Auto Light, Video Flash, or Stereo Zoom Mic
• BN-V428U 2800 mAh, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack

Reviews (1)

If you have an HDTV, you need this camcorder!!!!
This is the first camcorder I have ever used that looks good on an HDTV. No... Let me correct that. It looks great!!!

Have you ever wondered why a normal camcorder looks so bad on an HDTV? It's because an HDTV is very high resolution. When you connect a traditional camcorder (even a Mini DV), the TV sees a much smaller, comparatively low resolution picture and must scale it (digitally enlarge it) to fit the screen. It doesn't matter if you have a $400 low end cam or a $4000 high end cam... Scaling the picture on virtually any HDTV will ruin your camcorder picture.

JVC solved this on the GR-HD1 with the world's first consumer HD camcorder. Basically, it's the first consumer camcorder ever that makes a picture which correctly fits a widescreen HDTV. It records a picture with 720 x 1280 dots, compared with 480 x 720 dots for a normal camcorder.

The result? The detail & resolution is simply phennominal! The colors look great! The video is much more appealing to watch in widescreen because it more closely matches your natural field of vision.

The only thing you need to be careful of is the frame rate. This shoots 720/30P. What that means is it takes video at 30 frames per second. As a result, if the camera uses too fast of a shutter speed you may see a "jitter" in things that move on-screen. The fix is really easy: Simply take the camcorder out of the "auto" mode and lock in a 1/30th of a second shutter speed. This eliminates the vast majority of the jitter. What you are left with is a superb high resolution video with a subtle "film-like" quality.

You don't have to be Stephen Speilberg to appreciate this. This is the ideal camcorder for any type of family video. Think about the great stuff happening today that you'll want to be able to watch 10-20 years from now, and still be happy with the quality.

If you own an HDTV, no other camcorder else even comes close! ... Read more

Amazon.com Review

The features of the compact, versatile GRD230 are accessible right out of the box. The record button is right under yourthumb, and the digital still shutter button is exactly where your index finger comes to rest on top of the unit. Playback and mode functions are likewise clearly marked and easy to reach under the flip-out LCD screen. The camcorder's well-thought-out design manifests itself in a dozen other thoughtful details as well. One of our favorites is that closing theLCD screen turns the power off, and opening it turns it on, which facilitates quick-draw shooting and means you'll be unlikely to run down the battery accidentally.

Turn the camcorder on and off simply by closing and opening the LCD screen.

Which is all well and good, but how's the image fidelity? Decent to excellent. Daylight, of course, provides the most vibrant colors and the sharpest contours. But we found that even indoors, under the kind of fluorescent lighting you mightfind at, say, the offices of a Seattle-based online retailer, the video quality is surprisingly good. One thing the GRD230 does extremely well--and this is not a feature JVC calls out--is take sharp close-ups. We could see clear detail from as close as 5 centimeters away. Image stabilization is among the best we have ever seen: zoom in on a detail across the room, and the picture is as steady as if the camera had been mounted on a tripod.

One of the big draws of the GRD230 is the SD memory card slot that lets you take digital stills(the unit includes an 8 MB card, but you will almost certainly want to get a higher-capacity card as soon as possible).All the power of the 10x zoom lens is also available in still mode (forget about the advertised 500x "digital" zoom, whi ch is nothing but a cropping mechanism), and there is almost no shutter lag. Plus, the GRD230 does close-ups as well in still image mode as it does in video mode.

Freakishly good close-ups. (Actual still picture taken with the GRD230 -- See full-sized image.)

The twin white LED auto-lights are a nice touch, even if their power is not overwhelming. The LEDs come on automaticallywhenever light is low (you can override this manually) but drain battery power at about a tenth the rate of conventional lights. Power management in general is something the GRD230 does very well indeed. An entire day of intermittent shooting on one charge proved to be no problem.

We do have a few complaints. Automatic mode is not as automatic as it might be; we had to manually adjust the brightness on a few occasions. Transmission to a PC via the USB cord required the installation of drivers from the included CD-ROM. (Isn't the U in "USB" supposed to stand for "universal"? Why do some cameras require a special driver and other s don't?) Also, the shape of the camera body, with its round hump, rather suspiciously makes the GRD230 look like a DVD camcorder. JVC isn't trying to fool anyone, are they? No matter: DVD or no DVD, you would be hard pressed to find anything at this price even approaching the quality and features of this tidy little unit. --David Stoesz

Pros

• Compact, intuitive design
• Decent image quality
• SD card slot for digital stills
• Excellent image stabilization

• Shaped deceptively like a DVD camcorder
• LED lights have a very limited range
• USB connection requires installation of cumbersome software

Features

• Ultra-compact MiniDV camcorder and still camera with 1.33-megapixel CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 500x) and image stabilizer
• Crystal View rotating 2.5-inch High Resolution LCD, to reduce glare and reflections from the LCD screen
• Illumi-Light: Built-in Auto light using twin LED lights for 1/10th the power consumption
• BN-V408U 800 mAh Lithium-ion, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack; camera has built-in battery charger

Features

• Low-Profile MiniDV digital camcorder and still camera with 1.33-megapixel CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (500x digital zoom) and image stabilizer
• Rotating 3-inch LCD and black-and-white viewfinder
• Built-in auto flash with red eye reduction and SD/MMC card slot
• BN-V107US 700 mAh Lithium-ion, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack; camera has built-in battery charger

Amazon.com Product Description

The GR-DX95 features a high-performance 1/6" 680,000 Pixel CCD to capture high-quality video and digital photos. It's also fitted with a 16X optical zoom and a 700X digital zoom with spline interpolation. Digital zoom is a powerful tool, but it can lead to "jaggies"--zigzag contours that reduce picture quality. JVC has adopted spline interpolation to mathematically smooth such contours, making them look more natural. And since frame signals, not field signals, are processed, vertical resolution is increased, also improving quality.

Digital Stills and MPEG Video
In addition to high-quality video, the GR-DX95 also captures digital still photos that are stored on either SD or MMC cards (8MB MMC included).You can also record small video clips for distribution to friends and family over e-mail or the Internet using the MPEG-1 format feature. Video clips can be recorded from the real-time camera image or recorded video footage and stored on a the memory card.

Inputs and Outputs
The GR-DX95comes with an i.Link Digital Input/Output (IEEE 1394 compliant, also referred to as FireWire) DV in/out, S-Video Output, USB High Speed Interface, and Analog Inputs. Additionally, the GR-DX95includes a standard A/V cable to view video footage on your TV and a USB cable for transferring digital stills to your PC.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV is the preferred format for personal and broadcast-quality video, highly regarded for its high audio and image quality. With up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and minimum color noise, MiniDV delivers a 20-percent clearer picture than analog camcorder formats. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. A MiniDV tape offers digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD.

What's included
Camcorder, Shoulder strap, Editing Cable, USB Compatible Cable, 8mb MMC card, ImageMixer Software included- for editing video and stills, managing files on hard disk and create a Video CD that plays on most DVD players ... Read more

Features

• New mobile compact low-profile design
• 1/6- inch 680,000 CCD for superb image quality
• HG digital stills with selectable image sizes (1024 x 768/640 x 480-pixel)
• Use as a Webcam or e-mail MPEG-4 video clips
• 3-inch 110,000-pixel LCD view screen

Reviews (2)

Almost perfect. Worth its (nice) price.
My new camcorder works as fine as expected and delivers everything I need : high-quality video, easy-to-use functions, compact design with incredible size and weight, 3" LCD color display, editing software (Pixela Image Mixer with VCD)...

However, one drawback : the quality of still images recorded on the provided memory card (8 MB MMC) is lower than I expected. But that's not a problem : I have a Canon PowerShot digital camera for this.

To sum it up :

If you want to use this camcorder as a digital still camera : don't buy it. If you want to make great videos : BUY IT.

Thanks Amazon for the fast shipping & delivery (even with Free Super Saver Shipping).(...)

A satisfied customer from France

great camcorder
I have the camcorder for about a week. works great no real down falls to this cam. everything you'd except in a small compact camcorder priced nicely too. ... Read more

Features

• 30-percent less noise with 3D noise reduction technology
• DVD/Video CD Creation (via IEEE 1394)
• High-precision F1.8 lens with 10x powerful optical zoom
• Features 3-CCD pixel shift technology for sharp, vivid images
• Megabrid engine assures optimum quality for both video and still images

Features

• Ultra-compact MiniDV camcorder and still camera with 1.33-megapixel CCD
• 10x optical zoom lens (700x digital zoom) and image stabilizer
• Crystal View rotating 2.5-inch High Resolution LCD, to reduce glare and reflections from the LCD screen
• Built-in auto light using twin LED lights for 1/10th the power consumption and SD/MMC card slot
• BN-V408U 800 mAh Lithium-ion, high-capacity, rechargeable battery pack; camera has built-in battery charger

Reviews (2)

Extremely Noisy - No Analog Digital Pass Through
I purchased this camera at Sears. Got it home and made a short tape. The video quality is average. The worst thing however is the noise that is picked up by the microphone of the tape mechanism. It is Extremely loud and annoying. This was a deal breaker for me. And I dont consider myself too picky. The software that comes as part of the package is the bare minimum and I probably wouldnt use. I got a screaming deal on this camera and was really disapointed that I had to take it back - but the noise picked up by the mic is very noticeable. Not worth the money at any price.

JVC GRD93 MiniDV Digital Camcorder
This JVC digital camcorder is all you need. The stills are good quality and the zoom is amazing. It has many effects that improve the overall quality. Battery life could be improved. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder
• 10x optical, 700x digital, zoom with image stabilization
• 3.5-inch color LCD; color EVF
• Digital still mode records megapixel images onto included 16 MB MultiMediaCard
• Analog inputs for digital archiving

Reviews (8)

Serious problem with "digital noise"
I purchased the camera as a gift for my husband in July of 2002. As new parents, we expected that we would want a camcorder to record important moments in our children's infancy and toddlerhood. We have not been able to do so, as the camera has been out of commission or in the repair shop for most of the time we've owned it.

In September of 2003, after approximately 15 total hours of normal use, significant digital noise / pixel distortion and a "head cleaning required" message began to appear. We followed the prescribed procedure and cleaned the video heads with a MiniDV cleaning tape. The problem was not corrected, so we sought repair of the camcorder (to the tune of $240). A rebuild of the drum assembly, supply and takeup reels was performed by a JVC-authorized repair center.

Since then, we have recorded less than two hours of tape, and the digital noise problem has again reappeared. Some research suggests that we are not the only ones who have had this difficulty with our JVC camcorder. Since my difficulties, I have found hundreds of consumer comments that suggest that this and several other models of JVC digital camcorders and DV recorders are riddled with digital noise problems.

I have never been so dissatisfied with such a major purchase and am currently seeking a full refund from JVC. Wish me luck.

Excellent camcorder
This is an excellent camcorder.

The 920U (this camcorder) is much better than the 720U/820U. The earlier versions had a constant buzz on the recorded audio that appeared to come from the DV tape motor. The 920U is very quiet and the audio is crystal clear.

Video quality was much better, too, with sharper colors probably due to the improved lens. (The colors on the 720U/820U were washed out and dull.) On the 920U, I couldn't tell much difference between real life and recorded video in well-lighted conditions. Also, the viewfinder is color whereas the 720U/820U have B&W viewfinders.

Zoom is smooth and well-positioned. The menu is easy to use. Overall the ergonomics of the camcorder are excellent.

The 3.5" LCD is VERY nice. I'm definitely hooked on that feature.

Great Camcorder
...

I used it for the first time during my vacation with my family to Southern California last December and it satisfied me very much. The manual is really easy to follow. It felt good in my palm during action. I took some pictures because the 920 is also equipped with memory card. I really proud of this camcorder...

Excellent DV
I brought this DV for couple months. I have to admit this DV is much better than I expected. The quality of the video is excellent. The only bad thing is that the camera function is moderate. It only takes good picture in a well lighted place. Also, if you want to transfer your video to your PC, you need to have a firewire port. The usb only works with the SD, so don't expect that you can transfer the video from the usb port.

What can I say?
This camcorder is AWESOME. I'm not so great at writing reviews, but here's what I have to say. The camcorder itself looks really cool. It's got a great design, and only weighs like 1 1/4 lbs, so it's really lightweight and doesn't hurt your arms. The picture and sound are perfect. When watching videos that I made, I sometimes felt like I was watching a DVD on a flat screen TV, the picture is THAT good. It has some nice features, and the only problem I have with it is there is no support for a microphone. But, the new features and everything else being so great really makes up for this. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a superior video camera. The retail price is high, but I bought mine for much less from a respectable site. And it was worth every penny (and just might be worth the full price too). Bottom line - if you are shopping for a camcorder, you WANT this one. ... Read more

Features

• PDA-shaped Sirius satellite radio receiver lets you listen to over 100 streams of Sirius satellite radio programming
• Receiver has 18 presets, 20-song memory, and a remote control; features an easy-to-read LCD
• Can automatically alert you to your favorite songs or switch to a stream at preselected time
• Sirius radio service subscription and 1 of JVC KS-K6012 or KS-K6013 (car or home docking kits) required for use; each sold separately
• Measures 2.7 x 4.4 x 1.1 inches (W x H x D)

Product Description

Capturing the great moments in your life deserves the best performance. The GR-DF450 delivers. The ergonomic EZ grip design puts total control in the palm of your hand. But itâs not just the comfortable feel that makes the GR-DF450 a powerful performer. JVC's exclusive Low Light Plus incorporates two key technologies: The F1.2 Super Bright Lens obtains twice the light of an F1.8 lens assuring a bright picture with less noise even in less than desirable lighting conditions. And Three Dimensional Noise Reduction (3D NR) eliminates picture noise up to 30% in low light situations. Keep your subject in view outdoors with a 2.5 inch Clear LCD that reduces glare and reflections, and a built-in auto " Illumi-Light" for 1/10th the power consumption. Thereâs also a color viewfinder, Power-Linked Operation, Night Alive, and 700X Super Digital Zoom with Spline Interpolation. Record HG digital stills at up to 1024 x 768 to the SD/MMC card slot. There's also an accessory shoe and mic input with plug-in power. The GR-DF450 delivers high performance video. ... Read more

Features

• 2.5-inch LCD monitor for clear, bright views during outdoor shooting
• New F1.2 super bright lens with 15x powerful optical zoom
• Live Slow feature records in slow-motion mode and plays back with real-time sound
• Super High-Band Processor records at 520 lines horizontal resolution
• 30-percent less noise with 3D noise reduction technology

Features

• MiniDV camcorder with 16x optical zoom, 700x digital zoom, image stabilization
• 2.5-inch fold-out color LCD screen and color viewfinder
• Takes digital stills (1024 x 768) and stores them on MMC card (not included)
• Includes fun photo software: Presto! ImageFolio and Presto! Mr. Photo 3
• Connects to PCs and Macs via Firewire (IEEE1394) and USB (for photos)

Reviews (7)

Keep away from JVC DV
I purchased this model in the June of 2003 and by May 2004 it is in Safeguard mode. I was extremely careful with it and used it a moderate amount. After researching in google a bit, I found hundreds of others complaining about the same problem not only for this camera but for other JVC models - some people are even organizing a class action lawsuit. The camera - without this problem, was decent, but I recommend getting a removable mic because all of my footage has recorded the camera whir - a problem you'll have with about any built in mic. I highly recommend staying away from JVC!

Camera is not any good.
I am telling you people this camera was a waste of money. I urge you please consider a sony or some other brand. This camera has really nice features when they work. I keep getting this condensation message that comes up and will never go away. Also the tape always get stuck our and cannot automatically retract. This camera has went for service 3 times and THEY CANNOT FIX IT!!!!! Please condiser a sony. Dirt can record better video then this camera.

Mini only in size
At this price I bought two - I bought a 5 hour battery from ebay and this tiny camera churns out great big video.

I use it in school for making student produced videos - easy to work and fits the hand comfortably.

SD card issue
I am happy with the camera but my experience was different from "An Electronics Fan" from Bend, Oregon.

I tried to use the camera with a SanDisk 128mb SD card. I the resulting image looked like video noise. I thought the camera was defective, but a replacement unit showed the same result.

I have since located a 32mb SD card, and the unit works fine with it. I am trying to find some 64mb cards, but it seems like retail stores are mostly carrying the larger capacity sizes. If you plan on making heavy use of the digital still capability, you might want to stock up on the lower capacity cards.

Not bad
JVC recommends using a 64mb SD or MMC memory card for this camcorder. Please note that a 64mb card with this camcorder will give you a little over 200 pics.

JVC stated that any SD or MMC card that was bigger than 64mb may cause distortion and is not recommended.

Well, that was a bit disturbing, considering that I had recenty purchased a PNY 256 mb SD card. (which I was half tempted to return)

Regardless of the what I was told, I attempted the use of the PNY card. Sure enough, it worked fine. Pictures can be a bit grainy, but it is certainly not any worse than the 64 mb MMC card I tried.

By the way, the PNY 256 mb SD card will take 818 pics. ... Read more

Product Description

Total of 3-line inputs and 2-line output for component video Inputs / Outputs are reversible for multiple signal destinationsComponent and composite RCA inputs/outputsGold plated connectors Vertical or horizontal installation This item will take 2-3 weeks to ship. Shipments cannot be expedited on this item. . ... Read more

Features

• Gold plated connectors
• Vertical or horizontal installation
• Total of 3-line inputs and 2-line output for component video
• Inputs / Outputs are reversible for multiple signal destinations
• Component and composite RCA inputs/outputs