Features

• MiniDV camcorder
• 10x optical, 200x digital, zoom with image stabilization
• 2.5-inch color LCD, black and white EVF
• Records 1280 x 960 digital stills onto included 8 MB SD card
• MPEG4 movie mode for recording short clips

Reviews (2)

Modest camera with flaws..
Pros: Small Format - That's it
Cons: Battery life, Low light video Quality, Ergonomics, Software
Recommended: No
It took me about 1 hour (!!!) to figure out how to hold this thing. The ergonomics are unacceptable. Either one finger is on the microphone or on the autofocus. 2.The battery life is about 1/2hour, I bought an additional battery (1 1/2hours) for [$$$] which boosts the price. But this new battery sticks out of the camera... 3. The Still camera (1 Megapixel) doesn't meet current Quality standards => you will need a additional digital Camera. 4. MPEG4 format, is so low in quality, that you can barely recognize anything. 5. You can't plug in a microphone, which limits the use of this camera. 6. Software that came with it is worthless=>get XP Moviemaker (free download at Microsoft) or Video Explosion (CNET Editors Choice). 7. If you shoot at night, the picture is grainy and low quality. Indoors you need a bright room to get good quality. 9. Camera has a lot of features that you don't really need (i.e. Transition features like fading). It's better to use Video Editing software 10. Viewfinder is black and white and too small to see anything. However you will probably never use it since the Color LCD does a great job. 11. Camcorder only comes with a 8MB Smartmedia card, upgrade to at least 32MB necessary => boots price 12.Summary: Buy this camera if you are a beginner or don't use the camcorder too often. Don't buy it if you have high quality standards. And don't think about using this camera for still printouts.

This is great !
I bought mine from a different website, but since I have been a long time customer and user of of Amazon.com website, I thought of giving this review to aid other customers old and new. I have this mini cam for about a month now and I used it when I vacationed in California just last month. I never regret buying it. My family and friends have a great time watching our pictures on TV everytime we return from one of our siteseeing trips. I just give it a four star for now because I still have not use all it's features yet. There's just too many to read and install in order for me to fully utilize it. Overall, I think I got my money's worth. It's convenient and easy to use (the still and video cam only). It can get great pictures, and you can use the auto flash if the lighting is not good. The LCD monitor is not so clear on a bright day, but who's complaining, just delete your not so good shots and just keep the best. I haven't used the viewfinder that much since even in 35mm camera I find the viewfinder too small, I used the LCD most of the time. You just need to buy additional battery, which I did. I bought the BNV840 before but it weighs just the same as the camera itself, so I end up exchanging it with BNV312. Plus the former one needs a different charger which I have to buy separately. I will definitely recomend this with anyone. Also I bought a 128mb SD memory card in addition to the 8md that is included in the video package, though I haven't used up my 8mb yet. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-DVM80U packs a bunch of features into a very tiny package. Many of the features usually found in higher-end electronics are included in this small, easy-to-carry device. The 680,000 pixel CCD captures the 520 lines of resolution standard to digital video, the highest resolution of any video format. There is also a built-in digital still camera that captures images in pin-up and full snapshot modes.

The GR-DVM80U comes with many multimedia interfacing capabilities: IEEE 1394, PC terminal, and J-terminal. The standard IEEE 1394 DV interface transfers your footage to any DV-ready computer, while the PC terminal allows you to transfer still images to a PC via an RS232 connection cable. J-terminal uses the docking station to fully integrate a JVC VCR, camcorder, and PC to create a computer-controlled video playback and image capture system. The necessary software to control the station is supplied in the box.

Also included are an AC power adapter/charger, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, multibrand remote control, CD-ROM software for photo editing, docking station, AV cable and PC cable. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV recording format with progressive CCD scan
• 10x optical zoom lens produces sharp close-up and wide-angle shots
• Digital image stabilization and digital still camera capable
• 2.5-inch LCD monitor with 10x playback zoom
• Special features include random scene editing and animation mode

Reviews (9)

Very Good Camera for the price
lots of features and a simple remote which can operate most of the features.
Not a bad little camera, the size is the biggest plus. I got this camera to take videos and snapshots of my new baby for the relatives. The camera is very good for well lit videos, but as with most of the DVM series, the low light filming is not very good. Transfer to PC is pretty quick using the firewire port. I use Ulead Video software that came with my firewire card, and not the JVC software.

Very sensitive to tape brand - it turns your camara useless
Do not buy a JVC camcorder!!! - Just a couple of months after buying a JVC GRDVM80U an "E04" error start popping in th screen. Apparently the machinery is very sensitive to tapes lubricants and other compounds. Cleaning the head is not enough - the camara just becomes useless (Well, you can probably fix it for $350, but then it will break down again soon) Search the web for "E04 JVC" and you'll know how frequent and fustrating this error is - and I was surprised to learn it is not restricted to this model. JVC just ignores the problem and blames the tape manufacturers. It might function as an average camera if you are willing to give up using a tape ... and recording.

Tape incompatibility!
I got the camcorder about a month ago but only spend about 2 weeks with it because it was in the repair shop most of the time. It seems that this camcorder is incompatible with TDK tapes. There were no mention of it anywhere in the manual or in the packaging. They should at least include a recent updated notice on the problem. After using the TDK tape for 15 minutes, the picture became distorted and the message "Head cleaning required" appeared. I took it to the shop and the technician said the video heads were damage and need to be replaced. After calling JVC on the phone, they told me alot of people had call in about the same problem. I'm surprised no one mention it in their reviews or I would have stay away from the TDK tapes.

Not worth the savings
I bought this one, and then returned it a month later. The main reason is that the GR-DVM90U is about the same price, and there are two features that are well worth the upgrade to the 90U. The first is the memory card for digital stills. The 80U doesn't have it -- digital stills are stored on the Mini-DV cassette. This is incredibly inconvenient. The second feature is a flash for digital stills. It makes a huge difference, and I have taken some pretty good quality stills with my new 90U. If you already have a digital camera, and don't want to use this camcorder for stills, the 80U is OK. However, if you want to use it for stills, it's well worth it to upgrade to the 90U.

Great buy for the money !!! Be in the movies!!!
This is a great buy, especially at 42% off list price. It is compact and user friendly. The number of features, add-ons such as editing software, cables, etc. is more than you get with any other camera. I looked at the JVC vs. the Sony line and chose JVC for value --- after having a Sony Hi-8mm camcorder before. It's a great digital camcorder to get started with, and probably for most the only camcorder they need. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

If you are looking for an ultracompact, feature-filled camcorder, theJVC GR-DVM70U digital cybercam will take you to new levels of vacation and homevideo making. The GR-DVM70U features a digital still picture output that allowsthis camcorder to act as a digital still camera. The still images are stored ona removable 4 MB multimedia card and can be downloaded onto your PC via theprovided serial cable. A short editing process makes your images Web-ready or e- mail compliant with the software included.

This JVC digital cybercam offers ahigh level of picture and sound quality. A 680,000-pixel CCD deliversoutstanding resolution, and with the 180,000-pixel color LCD monitor, thecamcorder can be operated from any angle. For important close-up shots, the 200xdigital zoom provides fast zooming at variable speeds by finger pressure.

Thiscybercam is full of digital effects and scene transitions for the buddingfilmmaker. Let your creativity run free with effects such as classic film,strobe, slow shutter, black and white, and many more. A time-lapse capabilityallows you to record at preset intervals to catch slow motion action such asplant growth or cloud movement. You can also record in a special animation modethat creates the illusion of movement for an otherwise stationary scene when youshoot a series of slightly different poses. Random assemble editing provides aneight-scene memory for favorite scenes as well as the ability to add specialeffects.

The JVC GR-DVM70U is fully compatible with your PC computer. Itincludes a serial cable, 4 MB multimedia card and digital output link. Otheraccessories include a handgrip strap, audio-video output cable, editing cable,DC adapter, cleaning cloth, AC adapter/battery charger, and docking station. ... Read more

Features

• High resolution MiniDV digital format
• 2.5-inch swivel color LCD
• Multifunction remote control
• Functions as a digital still camera; 4 MB memory card included
• 10x optical, 200x digital zoom

Reviews (27)

JVC GRDVM50
I've owned this camcorder for a month...Although please avoid them if possible, they open the box from JVC and change the standard battery for a NiCa battery which lasts only 20mins! Then they charge you extra for the normal battery. Unless you're really on the ball you'll be caught out like me. I cannot believe the nerve of these people! Check out Camcorder & Computer Video mag for other retailers with prices just as good, some better.

The GRDVM50 is identical to the grdvm70 except it doesen't have the memory card & built in flash. Firstly, the video quality is superb. For my personal use of creating PC picture albums I find the digital stills perfectly adaquate, one real advantage with the software is even if the still you take is not in great focus you can frame by frame advance and you'll always find in 1 or 2 frames a clear image, just press the capture button on the software and this is the still thats transferred. If you're looking for high quality stills then buy a dedicated digital camera of high cost camcorder like the sony pc100 approx.$1500 street!

In a nutshell, this unit is so easy to use and carry around, it's also pretty rugged compared to the plasticcy models from other manufacturers.

On the downside, yes you can hear motor whine on the tape when using zoom but to be honest I really don't find it a problem. Wind noise-there is an electronic feature to reduce windnoise. I used this on Millenium Force rollercoaster at Cedar Pt.(Ohio) and it worked fine. The battery doesen't last long, you can buy 1.5hrs (actual) from camera shops. JVC Service & literature don't give me a warm feeling in terms of PC connectivity & what I've heard. Oh yeah, I had a problem with connecting to PC, check under on your PC under'Start,settings,control panel,ports, that the baud rate is 9600' JVC connectivity literature is pathetic considering how easy it actually is to connect. Don't waste time reading the software manuals, just install & use.

So..as far as rating goes, I'm not biased, and I'm basically blown away by this little machine considering the price I paid and the overall performance.

very good quility
If you are looking for an ultracompact, feature-filled camcorder, the JVC GR-DVM70U digital cybercam will take you to new levels of vacation and home video making. The GR-DVM70U features a digital still picture output that allows this camcorder to act as a digital still camera. The still images are stored on a removable 4 MB multimedia card and can be downloaded onto your PC via the provided serial cable. A short editing process makes your images Web-ready or e- mail compliant with the software included.

This JVC digital cybercam offers a high level of picture and sound quality. A 680,000-pixel CCD delivers outstanding resolution, and with the 180,000-pixel color LCD monitor, the camcorder can be operated from any angle. For important close-up shots, the 200x digital zoom provides fast zooming at variable speeds by finger pressure.

This cybercam is full of digital effects and scene transitions for the budding filmmaker. Let your creativity run free with effects such as classic film, strobe, slow shutter, black and white, and many more. A time-lapse capability allows you to record at preset intervals to catch slow motion action such as plant growth or cloud movement. You can also record in a special animation mode that creates the illusion of movement for an otherwise stationary scene when you shoot a series of slightly different poses. Random assemble editing provides an eight-scene memory for favorite scenes as well as the ability to add special effects.

The JVC GR-DVM70U is fully compatible with your PC computer. It includes a serial cable, 4 MB multimedia card and digital output link. Other accessories include a handgrip strap, audio-video output cable, editing cable, DC adapter, cleaning cloth, AC adapter/battery charger, and docking station.

HELP
How do you get pictures and movies on your email? I have windows XP and can't get things loaded onto the computer without it playing on just the camera.

Goods Camera with not so good software
I have been using this camera for 3 years or so now. The only issue I had with this was the battery was not holding charge so had to buy another battery...

The digital still images are ok. The software could have been better.

it is good one but not excellent
generelly speaking, it is a good mini dv camcorder which is small size, lot of function and good quilty video image. but still image qulity is not good, especially indoor shooting.flash light doesn't help much. another problem is nightalive function is bad, video qulity dramatically decrases because it's shooting speed slows down, which is much worse than other digital camcorder.
my point is if you use it outdoor most of time, it is good one. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-AX850U offers many of the same useful features and options asthe JVC GR-AX750U VHS-C format camcorder. The one important difference is thatit features a high-resolution color viewfinder for more realistic visuals whileshooting. The picture stabilizer gets rid of annoying picture shake. Yourviewers will appreciate this feature during playback because it will make yourrecording easier to watch. The GR-AX850U also offers 300x digital zoom. This isideal for catching action at sporting events or just at home in your backyard.The zoom is a variable-speed zoom triggered by finger pressure with numeric zoomratio readout in the viewfinder/monitor.

VHS-C format tapes are simplysmaller-size VHS tapes. You can play your tapes in any VCR with the includedcassette adapter. This feature also allows the manufacturer to make a compact,affordable camcorder. In case you need to travel away from an electrical outlet,the JVC GR-AX850U includes a battery pack with a shooting capability of up totwo hours. The camcorder has seven programmable auto exposure modes and digitalspecial effects. The title generator features eight preset messages in English,Spanish, French, and Portuguese.

A time-lapse capability allows you to recordat preset intervals to catch slow motion action such as plant growth or cloudmovement. You can also record in a special animation mode that creates theillusion of movement for an otherwise stationary scene when you shoot a seriesof slightly different poses. For editing features, the JVC GR-AX850U offersdigital wipes and fades, as well as a black fader and a quick review and retakefunction. The accessories include a shoulder strap, compact VHS cassetteplayback, and battery recharger. ... Read more

Features

• 16x optical, 300x digital zoom
• Electronic image stabilization
• Super VHS-C format with playback adapter
• High-resolution color LCD
• Fade and time-lapse options

Reviews (3)

juck
its gos in safeguard mode and the door is open
e02

lots of technical problems
this is a very easy camera to use but we have had lots of problems with it. i think it is a very cheaply made camcorder and i would advise buying another. about 1 year after we bought it just stopped working. we took it to be repaired and it cost [$$$$] to fix it and it took 4 weeks. it was the one time i wished i had bought the 'extended warranty' from the store.
soon after that the light stopped working--it actually still records ok in low light but it's kind of annoying to not have it for some things. then, 3 days before this christmas it started acting up again and all of a tape we shot came out with half the screen distorted and unviewable. when i took the tape out to investigate there was a wire sticking up which obviously was not supposed to be there. rather than pay and wait for repair we just tossed it. i'm very suspicious of JVC now.

Wow
WOW,WOW THis thing is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!<(§º¿§º)>Its DA BOMB BUT IT ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Great camcorder at an excellent price.
My wife and I have really enjoyed using this superb digital camcorder. For the price - you can't find any other camcorder that can compare (I did a lot of research before buying).

Because there are a few drawbacks, I can't rate it 5 stars. As I anticipated, the digital still picture quality is only average. Also, the zoom button is not ergonomically placed, so it takes a little practice. Picture quality in low light is not great, but is much better when using the built in light (it just drains the battery faster).

However, having stated the only drawbacks that we have found, this is an excellent quality camcorder for the price. The sound and picture are clearly superb to VHS and Hi8. It is easy to use and we have still not uncovered all of its many features. Great product JVC!

good value, excellent "beginner" model
I'm definitely a video amateur, but I dig this camera. It's small, lightweight and comfortable to hold. I haven't used it for extended periods of time, but the battery life seems acceptable compared to other models in this price range.

The digital effects are pretty cheesy, but there are some that are kind of neat. I'm a big sepia-tone fan. I plan to do editing on a computer, so these seem like useless gimmicks that I'll never use, as I'll do coloring and fading in a powerful environment.

It comes with a serial cable hookup for your computer, which is cool because every PC has a serial cable and not cool because serial is stupid slow. There is an optional USB cable (woo) and a DV (FireWire) cable (woo hoo!).

The stabilizer and the night shot are both pretty lame. In fact, I'd say useless. They make everything choppy. I just bought a tripod ($20 Ambico) so that should solve at least one of those problems. This also has a light which is sweet and two microphones set up in a nice little stereo pair.

Things I wish this had: microphone in (I have a pair of sweet mics for my MD recorder), color viewfinder (I've seen quit a few that skimp on this feature too), still camera mode (this has a cheap knockoff of still pictures, also pretty much worthless).

Basically, if you just want to make movies of your cats and maybe a dirty flick or two, this is a good buy.

good value, excellent "beginner" model
I'm definitely a video amateur, but I dig this camera. It's small, lightweight and comfortable to hold. I haven't used it for extended periods of time, but the battery life seems acceptable compared to other models in this price range.

The digital effects are pretty cheesy, but there are some that are kind of neat. I'm a big sepia-tone fan. I plan to do editing on a computer, so these seem like useless gimmicks that I'll never use, as I'll do coloring and fading in a powerful environment.

It comes with a serial cable hookup for your computer, which is cool because every PC has a serial cable and not cool because serial is stupid slow. There is an optional USB cable (woo) and a DV (FireWire) cable (woo hoo!).

The stabilizer and the night shot are both pretty lame. In fact, I'd say useless. They make everything choppy. I just bought a tripod... so that should solve at least one of those problems. This also has a light which is sweet and two microphones set up in a nice little stereo pair.

Things I wish this had: microphone in (I have a pair of sweet mics for my MD recorder), color viewfinder (I've seen quit a few that skimp on this feature too), still camera mode (this has a cheap knockoff of still pictures, also pretty much worthless).

Basically, if you just want to make movies of your cats and maybe a dirty flick or two, this is a good buy.

Good except the Viewfinder
Quality is good, but the problem is the viewfinder is black and
white. We go to Yellowstone national park and use it,
in the day time, the LCD does not looks very clear, so some times
you have to use viewfinder (Also to save the battary),
but the black and white thing will confuse you what you
are looking at. Skys, mountains, trees looks same color in it.
You can not easily focus the thing you really want, expecially
when you zoomed. So I suggest buy a color viewfinder.

The weight is not heavy, but when we bought a big battery,
the weight and size enlarged a lot.

The image quality is better than I expected, when I recorded
it to tape it looks fine, much better than things shown in viewfinder. Voice is acceptable.

The night shot does not seem very useful. At night, it works not
good. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Smaller than most paperback books, JVC's Micro Pocket GR-DVP9 features a 1.33 Super HS megapixel CCD, 540 horizontal lines of resolution and UXGA size HG digital stills (1600 x 1200 pixels). It has a 10x optical and 200x digital zoom with a 2" LCD screen and includes a 8MB SD card. That stores MP3 sound effects as well as digital stills.

Features
Some of the unit's feayures include a color viewfinder, MP3 sound effects, an 8 MB SD memory card, DV navigation, a USB PC Link, MPEG-1 Video Capture, Video email, digital still capture from tape, web-cam, power link design, analog input with pass through, an analog to digital converter, and a progressive shutter.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV digital technology delivers clear, sharp video with over 500 lines of horizontal resolution--far superior to the 240 lines of resolution offered by 8mm camcorders. You'll also get minimal color noise interference for a more stable picture. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder with 10x optical zoom
• Image stabilization for smoother and steadier video
• Color LCD screen with 200,000 Pixel Resolution
• Comes with software for easy CD creation
• USB PC Link

Reviews (3)

What good is looks without reliability?
I am an aesthetic person and i love beautiful things, so when i saw this, I bought it automatically on looks alone. Its functionality is great too but it all went wrong after 6 months. The flip out 2 inch screen started going blank when i pulled it out. Because of this it has soured my experience of the product hence only 3 stars. Has anyone ever had this problem and how, or how much did it cost you to fix it.

maravilla en miniatura
es una excelente camara de video, con una resolucion deslumbrante , facilidad para poder manejarla con solo una mano, y una calidad de construccion esplendida.
tambien hace soberbias tomas estaticas con su sd card .
Puede fimar con muy poca luz.....y en color!!!
La duracion de la bateria es razonable, pero mejor comprar otra aparte de la que viene con la maquina
Una segura eleccion, de las mejores mini dv del mercado.

Amazing mini camcorder
This camcorder is an amazing piece of engeineering. The image quality is quite clear on the video as well as still pictures that are taken. The LCD screen is very clear, and the feature set is quite impressive. The menus could be a little more intuitive, but over time, you get used to their placements. Battery life tops out at around 90 minutes or so, so I do recommend getting an extended battery for it.

One more thing, according to the box, it works with Macintosh MacOS 9 only. However, it works perfectly fine on MacOS X 10.2. This camcorder is definitely worth the investment. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-SX960U offers the convenience of VHS-C in a sleek, lightweight design. It is equipped with a color eye-viewfinder for more realistic visuals while shooting. The digital image stabilizer gets rid of annoying picture shakes. You and your viewers will appreciate this feature during playback, because it helps make your recording easier to watch. The special low-light function enhances picture quality when you're shooting in a dimly lit environment. It also offers a 16x optical and 400x digital zoom. This is ideal for catching action at sporting events or just at home in your backyard. The zoom is a variable-speed zoom triggered by finger pressure with numeric zoom-ratio readout in the viewfinder/monitor.

The camcorder is capable of three recording modes. S-VHS recording offers 60 percent better resolution than regular VHS. S-VHS ET allows you to record with that same high-resolution using any VHS-C tape. For full compatibility with any VHS video player you can record in standard VHS mode. VHS-C format tapes are simply smaller-sized VHS tapes. You can play your VHS tapes in any VCR with the included cassette adapter.

For editing features, the GR-SX960U offers digital wipes and fades, as well as a black fader and a quick review and retake function. There are 46 different combinations you can play with for digital special effects, wipes, and fades. The title generator features eight preset messages in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. The accessories include a shoulder strap, compact VHS cassette playback adapter, and battery recharger. ... Read more

Features

• SVHS-C camcorder, compatible with VHS
• 16x optical, 400x digital, zoom with digital image stabilization
• Color EVF
• Enhanced low light sensitivity
• Includes battery pack, Compact VHS playpak, AC adapter/charger, shoulder strap

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether you're recording your vacation, your children, or any event, theultracompact JVC GR-DVL505U digital cybercam offers a wide range of features tohelp you take the best shots. Not only does it act as a regular camcorder, butit also can function as a digital still camera. The still images are stored onthe included memory card and can be downloaded onto your PC via the providedserial cable. The included software provides a short editing process to makeyour images Web ready or e-mail compliant.

This JVC digital cybercam offers ahigh level of picture and sound quality. A 680,000-pixel CCD deliversoutstanding resolution, and with the swiveling color LCD monitor, the camcordercan be operated from any angle. For important close-up shots, the 250x digitalzoom provides fast zooming at variable speeds by finger pressure.

Thiscamcorder offers a large selection of digital effects and scene transitions.Exercise your creativity with effects like classic film, strobe, slow shutter,black and white, and many more. A random assemble editing feature provides aneight-scene memory for favorite scenes as well as the ability to add specialeffects. The JVC GR-DVL505U digital cybercam also includes playback zoom forenhanced viewing.

The JVC GR-DVL505U is fully compatible with your PCcomputer. It includes a serial cable and digital output link. Other accessoriesinclude a handgrip strap, audio-video output cable, editing cable, DC adapter,cleaning cloth, AC adapter/battery charger, remote control, and docking station. ... Read more

Features

• High-resolution MiniDV digital format
• 3-inch swivel color LCD monitor
• Also functions as digital still camera; 2 MB storage card included
• 10x optical, 250x digital zoom
• Includes special effects and scene transitions

Reviews (15)

Great Deal
I just bought this camera and think it is a great video camera, especially for the price. The camera is lightweight and very easy to handle. The menus are simple and straighforward for all the setting and effects. The still picture quality is pretty good. The included pc software is very easy to use and DOES in fact work with Windows 98 SE. Video quality is superb. I would recommend this camera to anyone who wants to purchase a Mini-DV camera.

Very Good Inexpensive DV
I was very anxious to get ahold of this baby when I saw it at a trade show. A week later I went out and bought it. The MiniDV format RULES!!! The resolution is Crystal clear. The controls are right at your finger tips making the JVC Digital Camcorder Just Plain AWESOME!!!!

Another Great Feature that I was really impressed with was the ability to take digital pictures. They come out crystal clear at really really close up range. Not blurry like my digital camera does. This is more like a 2-in-1 digital Camera/Camcorder in one!!

I highly reccomend this as a great first camcorder. Its pretty light weight the Battery could last a bit longer. Over all I Love it!!!

Great if you get the extended warranty
We got this 3 yrs ago. For the price we paid, it was packed with features and performed well for the most part. We didn't bother with the included software since we had Pinnacle. A year ago (2 yrs after purchase) we had blotches and blackouts on tapes when viewing previously taped DVs. Went through and scratched up bunches of tapes before trying out the head cleaners. Things were ok until few months ago. The motor to eject and receive the cartridge started to get stuck. After jiggling few times, even brute force, it would be ok. Now this past weekend, after we tried to use it to tape our son's birthday party, it degenerated to the point where it's 'eating up' tapes and it takes several minutes of coaxing to get the tape to go in or out. Time for a decent burial me thinks.

Good for the 1st year after that terrible
We bought our camera new and thought it was GREAT! We took pictures with it mostly and did take some videos of holidays and our kids' programs, ect. Now 2 years and only 6 mini-dv tapes down the line we get an error message stating "head cleaning needed". Well we went out and bought the "needed" head cleaning cassette and ran it through. The next time, and every time since you get into taping about 5 minutes and that same message pops up. JVC's customer support is terrible. All they can say is, "take it to an authorized service center apparently your heads are bad. Well for us the closest one is 120 miles away. Add that to the cost of $50-$100/hour labor plus parts to get it fixed, are you nuts? You can probably buy a new camera by the time your done. As others have stated in their reviews, the software compatibility is also another issue they won't help you with. Just keep searching on the net and you'll eventually find someone that can help you with that problem. I am very disappointed with JVC and I wish people would wait a while before they write these reviews. People writing them a month or two after having their product is good to explain all the nice features, but how is it working now a few years down the road?

NOT FOR LONGTERM
We bought the JVC GR-DVL505U Digital Camcorder a couple of years ago. The first year was great. It did what it's supposed to do. That's why I still give it some stars.

But on the second year, it started flashing a lot of error messages, constantly ask to clean head, and sometimes DID NOT record at all without any indication on the screen. We found out later when we tried to view the tapes. At first, we thought it was just a bad tape, but it happened to every single tape. In one of the tapes, we found more than half blank/skipped sections. It's so sad and frustrating because we're trying to record our baby's 'first everything'.

We're planning to get a new one. We can no longer depend on this camcorder to capture the important moments. I guess 2 stars is too generous because I wouldn't recommend this product to anyone. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-AX851U offers many of same useful features and options as theJVC GR-AX750U VHS-C format camcorder. The two important differences are theinclusion of a high-resolution color viewfinder for more realistic visuals whileshooting and a built-in light which improves the picture in low-light shootingconditions. The picture stabilizer gets rid of annoying picture shake. Yourviewers will appreciate this feature during playback because it will make yourrecording easier to watch. The GR-AX851U also offers 300x digital zoom. This isideal for catching action at sporting events or just at home in your backyard.The zoom is a variable-speed zoom triggered by finger pressure with numeric zoomratio readout in the viewfinder/monitor.

VHS-C format tapes are simplysmaller-size VHS tapes. You can play your tapes in any VCR with the includedcassette adapter. This feature also allows the manufacturer to make a compact, affordable camcorder. In case you need to travel away from anelectrical outlet, the JVC GR-AX851U includes a battery pack with a shootingcapability of up to two hours. The camcorder has seven programmable autoexposure modes and digital special effects. The title generator features eight preset messages in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese.

A time- lapse capability allows you to record at preset intervals to catch slow motionaction such as plant growth or cloud movement. You can also record in a specialanimation mode that creates the illusion of movement for an otherwise stationaryscene when you shoot a series of slightly different poses. For editing features,the JVC GR-AX851U offers digital wipes and fades, as well as a black fader and aquick review and retake function. The accessories include a shoulder strap, compact VHS cassette playback adapter, and battery recharger. ... Read more

Features

• 16x optical, 300x digital zoom
• Electronic image stabilization
• Super VHS-C format with playback adapter
• High-resolution color LCD viewfinder
• Built-in light for night shooting

Reviews (7)

Don't Waste Your Money
JVC continues to turn out products that are defective and they do not stand behind them. I bought my daughter a camcorder for her graduation and she is unable to use it because the camera displays an E03 lockdown mode message which disables the camera. Apparently the only way to fix this problem is to bring it to a dealer and pay for the repair. I also understand that it can be a reoccuring problem. There is a class action suit pending. Spend your hard earned money on a better product.

Best bang for buck
I have three camcorders that alternate depending on the event I want to cover. This one is really the one I like the most. First it has excellent resolution that should be expected out of camera of this cost range. My freinds were dazzled once we showed the playback on TV, people asked if it was digital. The battery life is also excellent and so is the quality and rate of charging..takes 1 hour for full charge..and 30 minutes charge gives 2-3 hours of recording. This is quite good for me. The inbuilt light source is good for night shots as well. Really liked it overall.

Because they won't let me givt a ZERO!
I bought this camera (my third camcorder), because of the name. As I found out the name isn't every thing. I had it 2 weeks, and in that time I had to call JVC (their online service never returned my e-mail) twice. The first time I could fix it myself waiting 45 min. The seconc time (after having this camera only 2 weeks)I was told to take it in for repairs, so I sent it back. Save your time buy something else.

An actual bargain!
I recently bought this camcorder... not expecting too much... I was glad I [got the] SuperVHS model because the images are razor sharp - rivalling MiniDV camcorders to an untrained eye. I transfered the video to my computer via my ATI All-In-Wonder Pro video card's S-VHS input and the results were amazing, using my inexpensive ... VideoWave editing software I was able to bump up the color and saturation to highly satisfying levels. The image stabalization feature works great, I filmed from a bicycle with not problems. Fun. THe only gripes I have with it are the lack of a microphone jack and that you have to buy the optional remote control to access many of the advanced recoring features. All together a good camera for not much money.

Nothing but trouble
I have had nothing but trouble from this camcorder. This is the third camcorder that I have used extensively and the first that I have had any trouble with at all. The other two were Sony products and I should have stayed with that brand. No matter what I do I get an "E03" message on the screen and the camcorder shuts down. I bought this to videotape my newborn son and the moments that I have lost because of this inferior camcorder are irreplaceable. ... Read more

Features

• Panasonic PV-BP17, HHR-V440A/V60A eq.
• 2-year warranty
• 1600mAh, NiCd

Reviews (1)

FANTASTIC BATTERY AT FRACTION OF COST
UTTERLY AMAZONIAN AMAZING HOW A LARGE COMPANY WILL SELL THEIR PRODUCT'S ACCESSORIES AT ASTRONOMICAL COST. AND HERE WE SEE THE AMAZON STYLE OF "Discounting" Brand New Products. A JVC TYPE N507 slim camcorder batter for a tenfold cost reduction. The battery is amazing and puts all other companies at a disadvatage.
I have two and they last long as well as charge quick. ... Read more

Features

• PC Adaptor for Secure Digital and MMC Cards

Reviews (6)

Excellent headset for classical music listener! :-),
Two Thumbs Up! When I tried this headset with some of classical music CDs ( DDD, ADD, AAD ) and OGG ( 500Kbps Max_Value ) files made by them ( I tested them! :-) ), it is very different from other general headsets. It expresses music and sound with more deep and sharp with very sophisticated voices; therefore, each of instruments in orchestra expresses its discrete sounds very cleary. :-) I think that it has huge value with the price. Low price with high quality sounds. :-) I'm also satisfied with the volume control in the headset, especially for the volume level. When I listen to a classical music, i turned on the volume level with 55/100%. It is too loud for me to listen a music over 60/100%. I really recommend this headset when you are especially a classical music listener. It will be excellent choice for you.

Not the best, but good anyway.
For $..., I suppose these JVC HAV560 are pretty darn good. They offer good frequency range with well defined high's, decent mid range and solid bass delivery. The 40mm drivers seem to need a little more juice to fully hammer your eardrums, but should be fine for most sound sources. They are light and comfortable although I think I'd prefer a tighter fit and perhaps more rugged wires asn these are just a little thin. As usual I am partial to the in line volume control which these headphones have. All in all I think they are a bargain.

Great Home Stereo Speakers
I bought these headphones for mainly home use and have been impressed with them. For the price range, the sound quality is great, and the bass in strong (a rarity in inexpensive headphones). They are quite comfortable, and are great for music or movies. The 9' cord may be a bit long for portables, but it's nice for movies/TV because you don't need to sit so close, or worry about yanking out the cord from your TV/receiver. The only reason they don't get 5 stars from me is because the power delivered to portables is not quite as high, but is acceptable. All in all, a great set of headphones for the buck!

Not for portables
I purchased these pair of headphones for both my home stereo and portable stereo needs. The sound quality was better than average - and for it's price excellent - when listening to a home stereo system. However I would definately NOT recommend purchasing these headphones if you plan to listen to portables. I listened through my portable CD player and minidisc player and found that I needed to turn the volume nearly to it's max to hear music at the proper level. It seems to deliver the high and low frequencies well, but the midrange is quite low.

The earpieces are probably the most confortable that I've ever used, but the 9 foot chord is way too long.

mixed bag
I bought these after reading some good reviews and found that they worked well with my home stereo but there was always some background noise. They did not work with my sony MD player and that was the main reason for me buying them. If you are not to picky and just like loud music these are surprisingly good. They are also very comfortable. However, for more complex and or subtle listening it would be wiser in the long run to go up the ladder a bit. ... Read more

Features

• Blue, orange, and green translucent shells
• 60 minutes standard, 90 minutes EP mode
• ME Technology and Ultra Fine Cobalt Coating assures high output with reduced noise

Reviews (3)

Answer to "derek timmis" from uk
derek, if your camcorder is digital and have a firewire connector, buy a firewire card (usually come swith the cable and siftware) and connect the camcorder with the Pc through it.

DVL20E
I ENJOY DOWN LOADING THE STILLS TO MY PC BUT WOULD LIKE TO DOWN
LOAD THE MOVIE PICTURES AS WELL AS STILLS,HOW DO I DO THIS IS IT POSSIBLE? DO I NEED ANOTHER PROGRAM?

Works also with the RCA CC9370
I had been looking all over for an extended life battery for my RCA CC9370 digital camcorder and... finally, this one appears to be it! I haven't used it thoroughly yet, but so far it works fine both with the camcorder and with the AC adapter/charger that came with it. It's also much less expensive than the one recommended by the manufacturer. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I haven't tested yet how long it lasts under normal use without recharging. ... Read more