JVC GZ-HD30 80GB hard drive HD camcorder

Vivid memories

The GZHD30 Everio camcorder makes your memories stand out with high definition recording. In the camcorder's FHD mode, video is recorded at a high bit rate of 26.6 Mbps average. Compared to other systems using a lower bit rate, the resulting image offers higher quality with clearer visible details. The high-performance AVCHD Codec and seven noise reduction technologies contribute to remarkable overall picture quality with high horizontal resolution and color reproduction rivaling 3CCD cameras. In addition to terrific video, the GZHD30 can conveniently record digital still images. Just switch to the image mode and then press the snapshot button. Record your snapshot to either the HDD or a micro SD card. It's your choice. You can record up to a 1920 x 1080 image.

Outstanding performance

Using the same technology as GENESSA HD displays, the GZHD30 can output a 1080 scanning line image at progressive 60fps so you can enjoy uncompromising picture quality on a TV that accepts 1080p input. With progressive, the jaggy diagonals you'd get with interlaced images are smoothed out, for a clearer image.

Hybrid storage and data battery

In addition to a 80GB built-in hard disk drive, the GZHD30 also has a slot for microSD/SDHC cards so you can store video and stills on this commonly available memory card (not included with purchase). The data battery allows you to check remaining battery power by percentage and remaining recording time in minutes at the touch of a button, even while the camera's power is off.

Variety of shooting assist modes

HD Everio offers a wide array of assist functions to shoot HD video more precisely, conveniently, and creatively. A focus assist function outlines in-focus image contours to show which parts are in or out of focus. The zebra function displays a striped pattern across overexposed areas of the image. There is also a full array of program AE settings available so you can choose the right exposure or shutter speed automatically according to the scene you're shooting. You can choose from Portrait, Sports, Twilight, Snow, and Spotlight. These modes are easily accessible via a visual menu dial.

Taking control

In addition to point-and-shoot simplicity, the GZHD30 also offers a wide range of manual controls including manual white balance, exposure control, shutter priority, aperture priority, brightness control, and more. There's stick control for easy operation. Pressing the four "compass points" on the circular control operates everything from menu item selection to manual camera settings. Power-linked operation turns on the camera when you open the LCD so you can shoot right away, and turns the camera off when you close the LCD so you won't waste power.

Get connected

The GZHD30 is equipped with USB 2.0 and HDMI&trade digital interfaces on the camera. USB is primarily for file saving and HDMI is for digital viewing on large screen displays. There are also component and AV terminals to output down-converted signals for analog devices. The headphone output lets you connect stereo headphones for real-time audio monitoring while you shoot, or to listen to the soundtrack in privacy while viewing footage you've just recorded. You can mount an optional microphone or the camcorder's accessory shoe for clear, high-quality audio recording. A convenient mic input terminal with plug-in power supplies power to the mounted microphone.

Keep it together

The more you record, the more critical "search" functions become. In addition to the usual file listings and data search, HD Everio also offers the world's first Intelligent Grouping function. This groups similar scenes together based on the time of recording, interval between recordings and duration of recording, providing faster and easier access to desired scenes. Digest Playback is possible with AVCHD DVDs created using the GZHD30 and the optional JVC CD-VD50/VD2. This function automatically selects highlight scenes from among the recorded content using JVC's proprietary algorithm and plays back what looks like a "coming attractions" trailer for a movie. 60 minutes of footage is condensed into five mintues of highlight scenes. Now you can quickly get an idea what's on the disc. With the Playlist function, you can select the scenes you want in the order you want internally at the camera. Program you favorite scenes, in the order you like for playback or for archiving to DVD.