Camcorder Reviews (page 4)
Menu, Menu, on the Screen
Many of the H128's functions fall under an on-screen menu. These include high speed shutter, interval record, self timer, frame record and trigger mode. The latter allows the user to select whether the H128SW records between button presses, or only as long as the button is held down. After pressing the MENU button, the focus knob cycles through the options. Perhaps this is why the focus control sits where it does. A two-page digital superimpose function allows you to capture and display any high-contrast image. The H128SW has a number of nice transitions for the title pages, including wipes and dissolves. You can reverse the title, and superimpose it any of eight colors.
In addition to a built-in stereo mike, the H128SW has an external mike input. A wind switch reduces low-frequency response to lessen the effects of wind. Thankfully, Fujix saw fit to put a headphone jack on the H128SW.
Video performance of the Fujix is average, with strong, accurate color. Resolution is good, though to my eye the H128SW doesn't look quite as crisp as some of its competition. Low-light performance is good, with little noise visible. Audio performance is impressive, with little motor noise and natural stereo imaging. The Fujix H128SW offers a respectable combination of features and performance. Its wider-than-usual lens system makes it worth checking out for people that do a lot of shooting in cramped indoor spaces.
Technical Specifications
Fujix H128SW Hi8 Camcorder
Format: Hi8 (8mm compatible)
Lens: single-speed 12:1 optical zoom, f/1.6, 4.5-54mm focal length
Pickup device: 1/3-inch CCD, 410,000 pixels
Viewfinder: 0.7-inch color LCD
Exposure: Auto
Focus: TTL auto, manual override
Audio: AFM hi-fi stereo
White balance: Continuous auto
Other features: Digital title superimpose, high speed shutter, infrared remote, record search, interval record, self timer, fade, dual-mode record trigger
Inputs: S-video, composite video, stereo audio, external microphone
Outputs: S-video, composite video, stereo audio, headphones
Dimensions: 4 (height) by 4 (width) by 7 (depth) inches
Weight: 1 pounds, 12 ounces (sans tape and battery)
Video Performance (approx.): Horizontal resolution (camera) 430 lines
Horizontal resolution (playback): 400 lines
Performance Times: Pause to record 0.5 second, Power-up to record 3 seconds
Fast forward/rewind (30 min. tape): 2 minutes, 10 seconds
Loren Alld`rin is Videomaker's technical editor.
