Amazon.com Review

If you're looking for a lightweight camcorder with all thebasics and more, the JVC GR-AX841 is a good choice. Itcombines a wide selection of automatic and manualshooting options with the ease of the VHS-C format,giving home users a go-anywhere, shoot-anything videorecorder.

The JVC GR-AX841's slim, flat formmakes it easy to carry. It offers an adjustable colorviewfinder and a built-in lens cover, which lessens thehassle of carrying around an extra accessory. The uniqueside-battery design keeps almost all the selection buttonshandy at the back of the camcorder.

The JVC GR- AX841's pictures are bright and colorful, although itsVHS-C format is by nature less sharp and clear than Hi8or digital formats. VHS-C does have the huge advantageof universal playback--it uses normal VHS tape woundon a smaller cartridge, so you can play it in any VHSVCR (using the included VHS-tape-sized adapter). VHS- C tapes also tend to be less expensive than other non-VHSformats.

We liked the wide range of effects offered bythe JVC GR-AX841--it has four different fade modes,plus seven exposure and effect settings, including theespecially useful antiglare and twilight exposures. TheJVC GR-AX841 also stands out because it lets youmanually adjust exposure, focus, and white balance,making it more suitable for amateur videoproducers. Overall, we found it both easy to use at thebeginner level and helpful in more advanced work.

Pros:

• Lightweight
• Manual exposure, focus, and white-balance adjustment
• Wide selection of auto-exposure and effect settings
• Easy access to buttons

Cons:

• No LCD viewfinder

Features

• Universal playback VHS-C format
• 50x zoom
• Manual exposure and focus options
• Special effects
• Built-in automatic spotlight

Reviews (5)

what a great camcorder and value!
JVC GR-AX841 VHS-C Camcorder We use this unit to supply warehouse security systems to the industrial market. No wonder it is out of stock at Amazon (May2000). The camcorder arrived and was setup in about 10 minutes. It has performed without a 'hitch' for several months. The AV output is routed to an Intel PC Camera ProPack webcam. Intel provides with this product a low cost.... time lapse and motion detection software CD utility. Both the JVC and Intel parts work well together. I suggest buyers focus on Windows98 and 64MB RAM on their PC to avoid USB lockups on their PC. We are well pleased and the systems work daily with only a regular environmmental housing we made to protect them from dust and cold. JVC makes a fine product which we will buy again due to its value and reliability. Thank-you!

The best camcorder I've ever used!
When I decided to buy a camcorder I spent a good month researching and shopping around. This product caught my eye in a display window in a popular department store here in Australia, and was reasonably cheap, so I assumed that it wasn't a great product. Even so I checked it out, and discovered that it had everything that even some of the most expensive camcorders have, including digital zoom and numerous special effects. It was light weight and easy to use, and I don't regret buying it for a minute. Once out of the box, I had a quick look through the manual and had the camcorder figured out in a matter of minutes. The picture quality is brilliant, and I would have to say that this JVC product was the best investment I have made in a long time. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to buy an easy to use, no fuss camcorder, and being JVC you know it's a brand you can trust.

great
this is the easiest camcorder I've every used. I'm a real clutz when it comes to electronics, but even I can use this one with ease. It's great!

Great Camcorder
This is my first one (treat me gently!). I took it out of the box and was using it in 5 minutes. I bought mine on Home Shopping, so I say it fully demonstrated.Also, unlike most VHS and VHS-C camcorders, it has digital processing. You usually only get this feature in high-end 8MM camcorders.

this is the easiest & most enjoyable movie camera to use.
It's a great movie camera. my son who is 7 uses it to make his godzilla movies. i use it for all kinds of events. it is quite quick and easy. the review above says two things that i agree with most. the fact that the controls are on the back (with battery on the side) and the lens cap is built in.

the backgrounds were easy to apply and there were several to choose from.

the on off switch was a bit awkward. ... Read more

Features

• Max. musical power - 1200 watts
• Aluminum diaphragm with paper cone
• Air cooling system
• Dual-input voice coil
• Butyl rubber edge

Amazon.com Product Description

JVC's GR-DVL915U brings a true workhorse of a camcorder for all your digital video and photo needs. Many of the features usually found in higher-end electronics are packed into this small, easy-to-carry device. With a 680,000 pixel CCD, the GR-DVL915U captures the 520 lines of resolution common to the digital video standard--making every memory captured sharp and crisp. There is also a built-in digital still camera that captures images in many modes, such as full screen, frame, pin-up, negative, or multipicture, onto tape or an included 16 MB memory card. The GR-DVL915U is compatible with both MultiMedia or SD memory cards.

The GR-DVL915U also comes with a variety of multimedia interfacing capabilities, making transferring DV recordings or digital photos to a computer fast and simple. In addition to the standard IEEE 1394 DV interface, there is also a USB port for quick transfers to PC. With the included software and cable you can easily bring your photos into your computer for editing or e-mailing.

A low-light environment is no problem for the GR-DVL915U. In addition to the integrated autolight there is also a special night-shooting function that enhances low-light sensitivity so you can still capture clear images at night in full color.

The camcorder also has analog inputs so you can easily record analog video onto your MiniDV tape. You can now backup your old VHS home videos into the pristine digital format. Also included are an AC power adapter/charger, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, remote control, CD-ROM software for photo editing, shoulder strap, and USB cable. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder
• 10x optical, 400x digital zoom with digital image stabilization
• 3-inch color LCD monitor and color EVF
• Photo mode records still images onto tape or included 16 MB MMC card
• Uses an included lithium-ion battery; also includes remote control, AC adapter/charger, shoulder strap

Reviews (4)

One of the best camcorder I have ever used
THis camcorder is by far the best one that I have ever used in my life. It gets a butt load of recomendation from me so you should go out and get one yourself.

Get your expectations right
To be honest, I had set my expectations a bit too high and was somewhat disappointed by the image quality. For instance, I had my eye on a digital camera (for stills) as well as a camcorder. So I thought I'd combine the two in a single purchase. Well, guess what! This little baby offers less than 1 megapixel (Mp), while the cheapest digital camera offers at least 1.3 Mp, with many models offering 3.3 and I've even seen ads offering 5 Mp.
Second (incorrect) expectation was video quality. I used to own a VHS-C and after all the hype I'd heard about about digital, I was expecting perfect video, the same quality you get on, say, the Discovery Channel. Wrong again. Although the quality is an order of magnitude better than my old VHS-C.
So, having said all that why did I rate this camera 4 stars? Because it is a great camera - for the money. Yes you can get camcorders with 1.5 Mp stills, the Sony DCR-TRV30 for example, but they cost... more. Not worth that extra money...
As for the video quality? Like I said - much, MUCH better than the older VHS-C quality I used to have. The colors are great, you can make infinite copies without loss of quality (that's digital for you) and I've been playing with video editing software on the PC and the resulting videos are awesome and fun.
Furthermore, JVC has done a great job on the user interface to set and control its enormous amount of features. They are menu-driven which leaves the camera refreshingly clean of "buttons". This can be a big issue if you have "fat fingers" or are someone who can get lost in too many buttons (check out some of the other camcorders and you'll know what I mean).
So in summary, if you set your expectations right, this is a great camera with solid image quality for its price, is very rich in features and comes at a good price. Four stars in my book.

What! No mic input?
Overall not a bad camcorder. The image is sharp and defined with excellent color balance. The A/V analog input allows for transfering old VHS archived tapes to DV format. There is one glaring omission that is inexcusable on a camcorder in this higher price range: there is no input for an external microphone. As a result, you'll not be able to use this camcorder for much else than "home movie" sorts of things. Without the ability to use an external mic, using the GR-DVL915U to effectively do interviews, public access cable TV spots or any other similar application is not going to give good audio results. The current low end Canon camcorders are less expensive than this and they all have an external mic feature. JVC could of had a great camcorder with the GR-DVL915U, but they crippled it with this serious disadvantage.

A Triple Treat!
The JVC GR-DVL915U is a three-way delight. First, it is a top of the line MiniDV format camcorder with nearly every feature you could want or need. I'll mention just two of the many features that stand out. Electronic stablization works as well as those on pro-model cameras. Also, what JVC calls "Night Alive" is a surprise: full color video in next-to-no-light settings. Most other camcorders can't match this ability. Second, the GR-DVL915U works as a digital still camera, storing images on either state-of-the art secure digital (SD) or MMC cards. The resolution isn't what you'll get from a dedicated digital camera, but the 640x480 resolution is sufficient for posting on a website or for digital archives. The final treat: the camera has an analog input, so you can take all of your aging VHS analog videos of important family moments and transfer them to digital and preserve them.

I haven't found another MiniDV camera with all of these assets for this price. The only weakness in this unit is the dated photo transfer and editing software that is included. Thankfully, you don't have to use it. The camera comes with all of the cables and connectors you need. Also included is a multi-brand remote control and JVC even throws in a 16MB MMC card for still photos. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The GC-A55 is the double digital solution you were searching for. Thiscamera is both a digital still camera and a webcam. The GC-A55 boasts a 1.3Mega-pixel Image Sensor (CMOS), 1.5 inch TFT LCD Display, built-in 8mb flashmemory, SD/MMC card slot and a built-in flash.

The Digital Still resolution is up to SXGA (1280x1024) with the ability formoving picture (video clip) and video output. This one box solution comeswith the camera driver, instructions, Roxio Photo Suite/ Photo Vista, USBcable, video cable, 2 AA batteries, hand strap, camera pouch and a quickstart guide.especially valuable when viewing moving objects. ... Read more

Features

• 1.3 megapixel resolution
• 1.5 inch color TFT LCD
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
• SD/MMC card slot
• Speedy downloading via USB 1.1 connectivity

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-AX970U offers exceptional value in a VHS-C camcorder. The picture stabilizer gets rid of annoying picture shake, while the 600x variable-speed digital zoom (triggered by finger pressure) gives you the freedom to shoot at great distances or up close. The "endurance shooting" feature consumes less power, providing longer battery life--up to two hours recording time with the provided battery pack.

Editing and scene transitions are essential for amateur directors, and effects such as black and white, sepia, classic film, strobe, sports, snow, and shutter are included.

Since VHS-C format tapes are simply smaller-sized VHS tapes, playback and sharing is done using the included VHS-C play-pack. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Best camcorder I've owned!
I don't want to repeat what the other reviewers have said, I agree with everything. Small buttons? Sure, but the unit itself is small - you can't fit buttons that are any larger on this sucker.

I've used the professional Cannon broadcast quality camcorders, and if I had the means, I would certainly own one. I'm fanatical about picture quality and being able to transfer the video to PC and play with it - you know, the modern day necessities when living in the digital age. This unit is the highest quality sub $1,000 camera I've found. I did quite the Pepsi Challenge too (the folks at Circut City and I are all on a first name basis now).

This is THE BEST camcorder I've ever owned. I love the fact that I can shoot video and take a snapshot without changing modes. It also doubles as an awesome digital camera. The info shoe makes the accessories the most functional of any other unit I've used.

I first bought the Video Light because the unit slightly underperforms in low light. The second was the flash unit for taking awesome digital pics. The third (and the coolest, but not necessary) is the directional microphone for zeroing in on a single person's voice from a distance. When you zoom in on their face, it 'zeroes' in on their voice, canceling out the ambient noise. Is that cool or what!

If it sounds like I'm gushing, I am. This camcorder, feature by feature, it cannot be beat!

The Part numbers listed below are the accessories I recommend all of which are currently sold on Amazon.com:
Description - Part# - AISN#
---------------------------
Video Flash - VLF3U - ASIN: B00006HTJO
Video Light - VLV3U - ASIN: B00006HTH7
Directional Microphone - MZV3U - AISN: B00006HTJN

Great Camera!!
I have owned this camera for about 7 months and I must say I an impressed.
The quality is outstanding!!
It has every feature you could hope for (except a built in flash).
The thumb buttons are a little hard to get use to but that is a small flaw.
This thing has soooo many features that I have not even got to use them all.
The best in my opinion, is the ability to take pictures without interrupting the Video!!
You push the button half way down while you are shooting video and you get a preview of the still then push all the way down and it snaps the photo while the video rolls along uninterrupted!!
I highly recommed this DV cam.
PS. I would recommend you buy the external flash.It is great.

Mini DV JVC
After looking over the vast range of camcorders available, we selected this model and could not be happier!! We have used it for app. 3 hours so far and the picture and sound is sensational. It was a bit hard to get used to the features at first (there are so many) but it is second nature now. My only suggestion is, get a Tripod. When you use the zoom, it is impossible to stay steady without it. I would buy this camcorder again and highly suggest it. I saw this camcorder cheaper at many different locations on the internet but opted to pay more at Circuit City and have not regreted it. Their policy gives you PEACE OF MIND, and can you really put a price on that?

JVC GR-DV 2000U Cybercam
The camcorder is a good buy. Great picture, lightweight, and easy to use. It took me only an hour or so to master most of its functions. Some of the buttons are small and the unit does not come with any blank tapes. That is kind of cheap for a $... unit. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Despite its affordable price tag, the JVC 240U has the versatility of recording in three different formats. The SVHS mode creates high-quality recordings that rival the broadcast TV standard, and you can record with the same high resolution on any VHS-C tape with the SVHS ET mode, or use the standard VHS mode and enjoy the greatest compatibility with other players. Other features of the camcorder include a large 2.5-inch LCD screen, 16x optical zoom, video light, 70 special effects and transitions, title generator, and VHS-C playpak.

Lens
The optical zoom magnifies up to 16 times, while the digital zoom, which works by electronically enhancing the optical image, reaches up to 600 times. The digital image stabilization system keeps the picture steady and solid throughout zooms and camera shakes. The low-lux function boosts camera sensitivity in low light situations to improve the video image.

Manual controls such as focus, exposure, and white balance provide greater flexibility in shooting. The 240U also has digital enhancements, such as a time base corrector and chroma noise reduction, that improve picture quality.

Inputs and Outputs
The standard RCA input/output and cable are included, so you can hook the camcorder to a TV for convenient viewing or a VCR for dubbing to regular VHS. ... Read more

Features

• SVHS-C camcorder
• 16x optical, 600x digital, zoom with digital image stabilization
• 2.5-inch color LCD; black and white viewfinder
• Manual focus, Exposure, and White Balance modes
• Integrated autolight

Reviews (3)

JVC Customer Service Terrible
I received this camcorder for Christmas. While the picture was very good, and the features plenty for my family videos there was an annoying whine in all recordings. I found it was recording the whine into the tape, not just a mechanical whine while playing inside the camcorder. I contacted JVC and was told that unless I had a receipt and proved I received the camera within the past 90 days I would pay for its repair. Even if I got the receipt from the person that gave me the gift I would pay shipping to have it repaired.

Perhaps I expect too much, but when I open the box I expect something to work, and if it doesn't I expect the manufacturer to immediately accept blame and fix it. Being treated as if I am to blame because I have no receipt at Christmastime is poor public relations. They should at least be able to check the serial number for a manufacture date and then see if my story is reasonable. I had another product fail recently and was promptly sent a replacement without the first question of whether I had a receipt. That company will receive my business in the future, JVC will not.

A Very Good Choice
I found the video results from this camera outstanding; clear and crisp with perfect color. I also found this camera easier to load tape and battery than my old Hitachi Hi-8. However, I find using the controls of this camera somewhat difficult and cumbersome. If you can't afford a Sony Digital Hi-8 camera, I suggest this JVC compact camcorder. With Super VHS-C tape in the camera and Super VHS tape in the JVC VHS recorder, for the price, you can't go wrong.

The JVC Camcorder GR-SXM240 Super VHS VHS Compact
The JVC Camcorder Model GR-SXM240 is one of the best I've
used in years. For the price you pay,you can't beat It.
Sharp pictures even in low light conditions. I recommend this
Camcorder for every one to use.
There is one problem while charging the battery the main circuit
board smoked. This board cost approx. $205.00. I recommend watching the camcoder when charging. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-SXM930U offers the convenience of VHS-C in a sleek, lightweight design. It is equipped with a 3-inch high-resolution color viewfinder for more realistic visuals while shooting, and has a built-in light that improves the picture in low-light shooting conditions. The digital picture stabilizer gets rid of annoying picture shakes. 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. Super VHS recording offers 60 percent better resolution than regular VHS. SVHS 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, and you can play your VHS-C tapes in any VCR with the included cassette adapter.

The GR-SXM930U is also an integrated digital still camera that takes snapshots and stores them onto the 2 MB of internal flash memory. You have different snapshot modes like full screen, pin-up, or multipicture. You can take up to 60 photos at the standard resolution with VGA size 640 x 480 pixels. With the included software and cable you can import your photos into a computer for editing or e-mailing.

For editing features, the GR-SXM930U offers digital wipes and fades, audio dubbing, and insert editing as well as a black fader and a quick review and retake function. There are 88 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, VHS-C cassette playback adapter, battery recharger, remote control, and photo-editing software. ... Read more

Features

• SVHS-C camcorder, compatible with VHS
• 16x optical, 400x digital zoom with digital image stabilization
• 3-inch color LCD monitor and color EVF
• Snapshot Mode records still pictures onto 2 MB internal flash memory
• Includes battery pack, Compact VHS playpak, AC adapter/charger, shoulder strap, remote control

Reviews (2)

A wonderful camera!!
I have used this camera so much!! You can make black and white video, fade in's, date, time, everything! It even has a digital still option. It is also small and convenient. Best camera I've ever purchased.

Nice Camera
My friend has this camera,

And he gave it to me for my sons birthday,

I started using it right away. no manual. no nothing.

Really great quality nice zoom.

What more do u want ?

;-)

Enjoy. ... Read more

From the Manufacturer

Features include:

• F 1.2 Super Bright Aspheric Lens
• High Resolution 3.5" LCD Monitor with 123,000 Pixels
• Retractable Auto Flash
• Info LCD Display
• Manual Focus Ring
• Title Function
• USB PC Link
• MPEG-1 Video Capture
• Video E-Mail
• Digital Still Capture from Tape
• Web-Cam
• 8MB SD Memory Card
• DV Navigation
• Power Link Design
• Analog Inputw/ Pass Through
• Analog to Digital Converter
• Progressive Shutter
• 1.33 Mega Pixel HS CCD
• 540 Lines of Video Resolution
• Mega Pixel Digital Still (1600 x 1200/ UXGA)
• Comes with the following software: Pixela Image Mixer with Video CD Creation and JVC Digital Photo Navigator
• Info Shoe
• 10X Optical Zoom
• Color Viewfinder
• Super High Band Processor
• Multi-Brand Remote w/ Random Assemble Edit
• Picture Stabilizer
• Night Alive
• Playback Effects
• Microphone Jack
• Earphone Jack
• i-Link

Features

• 540 lines of video resolution
• Super-bright f/1.2 lens
• 1.33-megapixel resolution
• 10x optical zoom and 3.5-inch LCD viewscreen

Reviews (1)

AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME
You will not be disappointed with this purchase. I compared the price with many other camcorders that had the same features and I couldnt believe what a savings this was. When I recieved it it took apprx 1 hour to charge the battery and I was recording.. I must add the durablilty is Great! (I dropped it on our cement garage floor and not one thing was broken with amazement! ) Great buy-& lots of fun with a professional touch! :) ... Read more

Features

• 2 hour 1800mAh Battery
• High Resolution color LCD viewfinder
• Full-function remote control
• Title Generator
• Multimedia Interfacing

Amazon.com Product Description

With the GR-DVM75U, JVC brings a true workhorse of a camcorder to market. A number of great features are packed into this small, easy-to-carry device. With a 680,000 pixel CCD, the GR-DVM75U records the marvelous 520 lines of resolution proscribed in the DV standard, making every memory captured sharp and crisp. Being in a low-light environment is not an issue for the GR-DVM75U, the special night shooting function enhances low-light sensitivity so you can still capture clear images at night in full color.

There is also a built-in digital still camera that captures images in many modes--such as full screen, frame, pin-up, negative, or multipicture--onto either tape or the included 8 MB MMC card. These photos are capable of a resolution of either 640 x 480 or 1,024 x 768 pixels. The GR-DVM75U is compatible with both MultiMedia or SD memory cards.

The GR-DVM75U also comes with a variety of multimedia interfacing capabilities, making transferring DV recordings or digital photos to a computer fast and simple. In addition to the standard IEEE 1394 DV interface, there is a USB port for quick transfers to PC. With the included software and cable you can easily bring your photos into your computer for editing or e-mailing.

Also included are an AC power adapter/charger, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, remote control, CD-ROM software for photo editing, shoulder strap, jack box, USB cable, AV cable, and editing cable. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder
• 10x optical, 200x digital zoom with digital image stabilization
• 2.5-inch color LCD monitor and color EVF
• Photo mode records still images onto tape or included 8 MB MMC card
• Uses an included lithium-ion battery; also includes remote control, AC adapter/charger, shoulder strap

Reviews (16)

Best value digital camcorder with stills for money
After comparing this digital video camera with built in digital still camera with numerous other competing cameras that were five hundered dollars higher or lower in price range, I found it to have the best features for the lowest price. It has great video, and best digital still resolution of any competing model (but it is poor compared to full time digital cameras and 35mm film). Very stylish!!!

Flash for stills, numerous low light, back light, and special video recording settings make it a great all around digital video camera for parties, weddings, etc., at a home use level.

Down side is poor digital stills in comparason to digital still cameras on market. It also uses a Multimedia card which is not supported by no computer needed, photosmart printers such as HP photosmart printers. Also, included software works but is bare boned and basic.

Side by side with sony models, the DVM75u was a far better value for me. I must admit, the overall quality of the sony video picture for discerning viewers, and I mean techno-phile junkies, is slightly superior. But I could not give up the built-in digital still camera resolution superiority with flash and an extra five hundred bucks for a difference only a professional could point out, and memory sticks are just offensively expensive. Great for video, gets by for stills. You'll need to purchase a digital still camera for photos.

What a machine!
I did some major comparing to the Sony PC110. I really tried to go with the Sony, but this JVC knocked me over the head and showed me that it is one hell of a machine. This has almost all the same features as the PC110 at a fraction of the price. Great digtal video, nice stills and awesome compact size. What technology for the price! There are a few draw backs: You have to get used to the small size and button configuration. It has a jack box for the peripheral connections, but that's not a big deal. Battery life could be improved. But these are minor compared to the power, compactness and image quality that this marvel produces. BUY it, you'll love it.

A dv-cam you'd actually use! Don't get Sony
Perhaps I'd give this 4.5 stars, but I'm happy enough with it to round up and not down. Vids are crisp and vivid. They transfer great with FIREWIRE/pinacle/dazzle 80 (unlike Sony w/ it's less frilly included editor). Only downside is the still pics for a camcorder are fair, it's not a mega-pixel cam like Sony's. For this reason some reviewers prefer the Sony, here's why I don't.
#1 If your desktop doesn't revolve around Sony's exclusive (& stupid) MEMORY STICK (and most of yours don't)then you have to buy one just to use all the so-called convenient features it brings.
#2 The CCD is much clearer and better.
#3 NIGHT VISION? so what! JVC's NIGHTALIVE frame rate may be slower but it actually captures color in low light! Even if you NEEDED to tape your kids sleeping in total dark, it makes them look GREEN and hollows out their eyeballs! - Yuk!
#4 Do you really care that Carl Zeiss makes the lense? Perhaps it makes a diff with film photography but not with Sony's CCD resolution.
#5 It's heavier, bulkier, clunkier (too many outside buttons) and less stylin than the JVC.

I recently had mine stolen, after tinkering around with comparible Sony's I'm going right back to buy another JVC GR-DVM75!

I Should Have Bought The Sony
After reading reviews on how Sony digital camcorders are better than comparable JVC models and going against my better judgement to buy a Sony MiniDV, I ended up buying the JVC GR-DVM75U to save [money].

I bought this digital camcorder in January 2002 to record my daughters birth and document her growing years. Well I've had this camcorder for 7 months and I have used the playback feature a whole 5 times. Two weeks ago I went to playback my daughters baptism and to my surprise the playback feature does not work.

I tried using two different rechargable batteries, the AC power adapter alone, the AC adapter and battery together, and nothing works. However, I could record fine, at least I think I am recording. Don't know for sure since I can't playback.

Anyhow, I took it in to one of JVC's authorized service center. They want to charge me [money](30% of what I paid for this stupid camcorder) to fix a problem with the control board. Sounds to me like the camcorder I got is defective. I wonder how many more are out there with this problem? If you buy this camcorder then beware of this potential problem?

Well lets see if JVC will stand behind their product. I am sending it back to them so they can fix it or hopefully send me a new one. Most likely, I'll just write off the [money]I paid for this camcorder and get a Sony MiniDV. At the very least, I know I'll get a superior product even if I have to pay a premium.

Buyer Beware!!!

Fine all around camera
Bought this camera because I needed a new video camera, and I wanted a digital still camera. Outdoor pictures get great results, and the video is excellent, both inside and out. Many features that are beyond my requirements, but the camera interacts quite nicely with the computer for moving pictures, and with the remote, it's great to playback both pictures and video on the TV. The size is right, easy to carry for extended periods, and doesn't seem like your lugging a big thing around. The family is very satisfied with it! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The JVC GR-DVL725U is a top-flight digital camcorder, capable of snapping 1-megapixel digital stills. Plus, it's chock-full of enough features to satisfy just about any amateur videographer, including a 10x optical zoom, 2.5-inch LCD, manual focus ring, and a whole slew of digital effects and faders.

Lens
JVC put a 10x optical zoom into the GR-DVL725U, which is a good compromise of image quality and zoom power, and should be more than adequate for just about any situation. The digital zoom pumps up the total magnification to 700x, but we recommend using as low a level of digital zoom as you need, as zoom erodes image quality, particularly at high levels.

Digital Stills
We were quite pleased with the digital-still capabilities of the GR-DVL725U. Many camcorders these days come with some sort of digital still mode. The DVL725U records 1,280 x 960 stills, which is a 1.2-megapixel resolution. This particular resolution is relatively good for a camcorder, and matches more expensive offerings.

Inputs and Outputs
The DVL725U comes with the standard IEEE 1394 port for lossless transfer of digital video to a computer, or another IEEE 1394-equipped device, and a USB port for still image transfer. Additionally, the 725 has an S-video output for duping your footage onto tape. ... Read more

Features

• MiniDV camcorder
• 10x optical, 700x digital, zoom with digital image stabilization
• 2.5-inch color LCD; black and white EVF
• Records digital stills up to a resolution of 1280 x 960 onto included 8 MB MultiMediaCard; also compatible with SD cards
• Integrated autolight

Reviews (2)

First Camcorder
This is my first camcorder, and it so far a very good one. The features that come with the camcorder are all true and they all work great.
The Digital Still Mode however is very bad. If you want good pictures get a digital camera, or a regular camera for that matter. The stills are terrible, only good for posting on internet and sending through email.
Battery lifespan is very short, so plan on buying a couple more batteries.
The cover for the SD or MM card is located in an awkward postion. Everytime I open the LCD or put my thumb at the bottom of the camcorder the cover pops open.
Other than that all the features that are advertise with this camcorder are right on target. Very nice camcorder. Too much camcorder for being my first one.

Reasonable price
If I am able to vote 4.5 stars, I would.

What I like:

* great video quality and colors (near-professional quality),
* manual control (whiteness, brightness, focusness),
* easy to understand (for someone like me who doesn't want to read the manual),
* great LCD quality,
* sleek design (easy to hold and control except when you're reaching for manual focus button- can be difficult if you have the band on your hand).

What I dislike:

* nightshot feature (strobing effect if the room doesn't have enough of light),
* short battery life-span - only lasts approx. 55 minutes with LCD on and approx. 70 minutes without LCD on (I highly recommend you to buy an extended life battery),
* random black noise dots appears in some certain conditions (barely noticable),
* bad still photos (good enough for webpage and internet only),
* 700x digital zoom (totally ruins the video quality); best to use 10x optical zoom only.

Overall, I am very pleased with how well this camcorder performs, especially in focusing and stabilization. I think it is a great camcorder at this price compared to others. I highly recommend it for both home and professional use. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The versatile JVC GC-A33 is an affordable choice for shooting pictures for online publishing. You can also use it as a PC camera (Webcam) in conjunction with video-conferencing software like Microsoft Netmeeting.

With an internal 8 MB flash memory, you have room to capture and store up to 120 digital images (in normal mode) that can then be quickly and easily downloaded to your computer for editing, posting to Web sites, and e-mailing. The built-in flash can be set to auto for low-light photography or left off when you're shooting in brighter conditions. White balance is automatically adjusted to give you accurate colors in almost any situation. There is also an LCD status display for confirmation of settings and battery level.

To use the JVC GC-A33 as a Webcam, just connect it to your PC using the included USB cable and follow the instructions given by your video-conferencing software (sold separately).

The JVC GC-A33 comes with a camera pouch, two AA alkaline batteries, tripod (flexible/adjustable table-top style), USB cable, hand strap, and CD-ROM with drivers and applications. ... Read more

Features

• Dual-mode digital still camera and Web camera
• Creates VGA (640 x 480) images
• Saves up to 120 images to internal 8 MB flash memory at default mode
• Connects to PCs via USB port
• Uses 2 AA batteries (included)

Reviews (2)

Great camera for the price!
If you want an inexpensive digital camera and own a PC, this model is for you. No preview of photo until you load on your PC. Then, it's just as functional as the more expensive models. WEBCAM is TONS of fun, especially for the kids. Use with USB port (included), CD-ROM (included), Windows 98/98SE/Me/2000. Worked on Compaq Presario laptop. Self-timer.

Cheap digital camera -- you get what you pay for
I bought this digital camera to use for a project at school -- I needed something cheap and easy to use. I didn't want to spend more than $and after looking around on the net concluded that this one was the way to go.
I received it a few days ago and have been trying it out ever since. It took the first useable picture just an hour ago!
While this camera is cute and compact, it seems to me that it takes pictures two ways: far too dark (haven't tested it out in broad daylight as it's raining here) or far too bright. The flash bounces off objects harshly and while there is supposed to be a varibale exposure value that can be set, I found that it basically doesn't make a difference. The menu display is digital but THERE IS NO ON-BOARD PICTURE DISPLAY! I was very disappointed about this!
I will say that for $ it seems to be a good value. It comes in a family-friendly package with extremely simple directions and very few cables or wires. It runs on two AA batteries (included) and stores between 60 (in Fine mode) and 120 (in normal mode -- a bit grainy usually) pictures at once. It doesn't take any discs or cartriges, which can be a good thing or a bad one, depending on your computer-savvy or computer-sloppy nature. The shutter is generally as fast as a 35mm (sometimes there is a little delay).
Included in the package is a TWAIN program to transfer pictures from the camera to your PC and a photo-editing program (and something for making 360 degree photos). I don't know how good they are -- I'm a Photoshop girl myself -- but judging from the TWAIN interface they seem to be quite user-friendly. Also packaged with this camera is a mini-tripod (to use when in the 10-second-delayed-self-timer mode?!). Oh, and while it functions as a webcam you're supposed to use your own software (apparently packaged with Microsoft Netmeeting or something -- I'm not sure, as I have no need for this feature).
All in all, I definitely stick by my statement -- you get what you pay for. It's not a great camera, but a child could use it and that is a plus for anyone who isn't very comfortable with computers. It's about the size of one of those cool APS camperas (with the drop-in film); smaller than a normal 35mm. It comes with a case (with belt loops) and hand strap, so it's portable. Don't expect to take spectacular pictures on it, but if you play around with different lights and angles you should get the hang of it. It is easy to use and definitely is in the "cute" category. Again, be warned that you can't see your pictures before transferring them to the PC, so if there is any doubt, take multiple shots!!! ... Read more

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