JVC GR-HD1 MiniDV 1.18 Megapixel High-Definition Digital Camcorder

Highest Resolution Consumer Camcorder

This camcorder offers true Hi-Def 720/30 progressive scan recording in MPEG2-TS (Transport Stream) format. Its large 16:9 image, packed with three times the visual information of DV, will create a new level of realism and impact when viewed on large-screen monitors or projection TVs. To accommodate a variety of video archiving and distribution needs, it also supports SD 480/60p and regular DV 480/60i with separate encoding circuitry to process the image before recording on tape. To make Hi-Def recording possible, JVC puts high quality up front, at the lens. With almost no variance in brightness, from F1.8 at full wide to F1.9 at full telephoto, it is able to offer the fundamental image-gathering performance a Hi-Def system requires. High-precision multi-coated all glass optics ensure low-distortion, ghost-free images with high peripheral resolution and brightness, as well as high edge-to-edge color purity across the entire zoom range.

High Quality Capture

The "retina" of this camera's eye is a powerful combination of a 1.18 Megapixel Progressive Scan CCD and JVC's patented progressive digital filter technology. Designed for a true 16:9 pixel wide array of 1280 x 720 (for moving images) and 4:3 1280 x 960 (for stills), and progressive scanning to sample the entire picture at once, this CCD has an uncanny ability to capture detailed images without interline motion blur resulting from interlace scanning. Hi-Def color purity and discrete reproduction allows you to see full detail without being obscured by low-resolution color smearing. The Hi-Def standard colorimetric range takes in more colors than NTSC as well. Things simply not possible to see with regular TV, like fine designs on a jersey, are clearly visible. Pictures have texture! What matters is that this camera lets you record, preserve and playback high quality 700/650 Horizontal/Vertical-line resolution component Hi-Def video in a reasonable price range.

Let's Go To The Video Tape

Another remarkable aspect of this video camera is that it records 60 minutes of HD signals on conventional MiniDV cassette. The benefits are obvious: MiniDV cassettes, the "defacto standard" are widely available and affordable compared to other formats used in professional systems, and by using a common cassette mechanism with DV, it was possible for this camera to offer regular DV recording as well. Hi-Def footage recorded with this camcorder can be easily transferred to your computer's hard disk with on-screen camera control buttons, via the IEEE 1394 i.LINK interface. Edited video can also be recorded back to the tape. It also automatically stores data in separate files should it detect different data types or unrecorded sections during capture.

Steady As She Goes

Demanding Hi-Def images need to be rock solid, so performance is supported by on-demand Optical Image Stabilization. It's optical so as to avoid any loss of resolution. This system features superior accuracy using a shift lens, original lens servo, and a new camera shake detection algorithm to effectively track the subject even at high zoom ratios. You can get in close with high quality 10x optical zoom in all modes, and 40x/200x digital zoom with spline interpolation to minimize jagged edges in DV mode. Digital zoom was intentionally not provided for the HD/SD modes because the high resolution and detail provided in those modes means that you will be able to see any part of the screen clearly even when you're not zoomed in. Particularly in the HD mode, big-screen images with details that come to life provide a signature look just like watching a movie.

Other Exciting Features

With all the excitement over Hi-Def recording, we want to make sure we mention some of the many other terrific features on this camcorder. A rotating grip lets you transition from a high-angle to a low-angle shot without having to remove your hand from the grip or take your eyes off the action. This model has an aluminum die-cast carrying handle and a lens hood to cut flare for superior results. Manual focus and zoom rings let you adjust the camera like you would a professional video camera. Its linear, analog-type motion in intuitive, precise, and sure to be appreciated if you're a serious videographer (autofocus is also available). A rotating 3.5" high-resolution LCD monitor helps you track the action, and power-linked operation means that when you open the monitor, the camera automatically powers up. There's an SD memory card slot to store still images as well as DV navigation data, and the web-camera function is possible through the camcorder's USB connection.

Included With Purchase

AC power adapter/charger, CD cord, battery pack, 8MB memory card (already inserted in camera), remote control unit, AAA battery x 2 (for remote control), CD-ROM, USB cable, lens hood (already attached), lens cap, shoulder strap, handle, S/AV/editing cable, editing extension cable, component video cable, audio extension cable, audio cable x 2 (for optional headphones and external microphone), cleaning cassette, core filter.