JVC GZ-HD3 Everio Hard Drive and Memory Card Hybrid Camcorder Review (page 2)
Editing
Here's the catch: if you're intent on editing with the HD3, your best choice is to shoot in the 1440CBR mode. This is the only mode that offers HDV functionality in the edit bay, because of its constant bitrate. While the HD3's other modes offer longer recording times and slightly better picture quality, they're really suited for direct viewing. JVC saves the day by including some useable software, too. Included are a QuickTime component (Mac only) and CyberLink BD software (PC only). If you aren't into living in front of your trusty edit station, the HD3 Everio can be connected to an HDTV with the JVC ShareStation to entertain your audience. If quality is your main concern the ShareStation will allow you to preserve the Full HD resolution.
Conclusion
The JVC GZ-HD3 is a good choice for the low end Prosumer. Clear video quality and the long rec times keep this model on our radar. There multiple recording modes gives the shooter the unique advantage to choose between the highest quality or the most functionality in editing. We appreciate this flexibility. Throw in the HD3's gorgeous good looks and simple user operation and you have a camcorder that is certain to entertain shooters and on-lookers alike.
TECH SPECS
Recording Format: MPEG-2 TS to Hard Drive and SD/SDHC Memory Card
Signal Format: 1080/60i
Recording Modes: 1920 x 1080 VBR, 1440 x 1080 VBR, 1440 x 1080 CBR
Number of CCDs: 3
Size of CCDs: 1/5"
Pixels on CCD: 530k
Effective Video Pixels: 430K
Lens: Konica Minolta f1.8 - f2.4
Focus: Auto and Manual, Focus Assist Button
Shutter Speed: 1/2 - 1/4000
Program Exposure Modes: Portrait, Sports, Twilight, Spotlight
Optical Zoom: 10x
Manual White Balance: Yes; Manual, Auto, Indoor, Cloudy, Sunlight
Viewfinder: No
LCD Monitor: 2.8" widescreen
Connectors: HDMI, FireWire, USB 2.0, S-Video, Component
Mono/Stereo: Recording Stereo sound
Microphone In: Yes
Manual Audio Level Controls: Yes
Headphone Jack: No
Speaker: Yes, mono
Flash: No
Wireless Remote: Yes
Onboard Video Light: Yes
Accessory Shoe: Yes, cold
Dimensions: 1/4" x 3" x 6-1/8"
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Strengths
- Long HD recording time
- Ease of use
- Still photo quality
Weaknesses
- Editability
- No Headphone jack
SUMMARY
The JVC GZ-HD3 is the simplified version of the HD7 with enough charm and functionality to keep the budding videographer happy.
Andrew Burke has worked in all areas of video production on three continents.
JVC Company of America
1700 Valley Rd.
Wayne, NJ 07470
www.jvc.com
$1,300
