Test Bench: JVC GR-DVM90U Mini DV camcorder (page 2)

The GR-DVM90U comes equipped with a variety of functions for the videographer who wants to employ a VCR to do basic editing. The JLIP edit control lets the camcorder control a JLIP-equipped VCR for auto-edits. Simply identify the shots you'd like and the order you'd like them, and the GR-DVM90U will offload them to VHS with its automatic editing feature.

The progressive scan mode makes for crisp digital still shots. You don't even have to interrupt your video shoot to take a snapshot on the memory card.
Just set the record mode to Dual on the Mode dial and the camcorder will store snapshots directly to the 4MB memory card that comes with the camcorder. Other memory cards are available that have greater storage space if you so desire. Switch the dial to PS mode and record snapshots directly onto the tape.

The JVC GR-DVM90U performed well under a variety of test conditions. Image quality and color reproduction were excellent. This model will definitely meet the needs of beginning videographers. The DVM90U has enough manual control to satisfy many intermediate level shooters, but its small size and reliance on toggles and menus make accessing most advanced features a chore. The compact size makes it extremely convenient for shooters on the move. Videographers will appreciate the versatility of this camera when it comes to editing.
Camcorders of this type are designed to be small. Considering its size, the GR-DVM90U is packed with features. The JVC is a fine camera for the videographer who wants a pocket-sized digital video camera.

Format: Mini DV
Lens: 10:1 Optical, 200:1 digital zoom, f/1.8, 27mm filter diameter
Image Sensor: 680,000 pixel 1/4 inch
progressive scan CCD
Viewfinder: 2.5-inch color monitor, .55-inch color LCD viewfinder
Focus: Auto, Manual
Maximum Shutter Speed: 1/250
Exposure: Auto, Manual, Backlight and Spotlight
White Balance: Auto, Manual
Digital Effects: 16 fades, wipes and dissolves, high and low shutter speeds, video echo, strobe, sepia, twilight, classic film, black and white
Audio: 12 or 16 bit
Inputs: IEEE 1394, S-Video, AV, 1/8-inch mini mike jack, JLIP
Outputs: IEEE 1394, S-Video, AV, headphone, JLIP, PC still, print data port
Edit Interface: JLIP, IEEE 1394
Other Features: Flash, 4MB Multimedia Card, high speed recording, slow motion playback, digital stills, PS, dual or video modes
Dimensions: 2-1/16 (w) x 4-15/16 (h) x 3-7/8 (d) inches
Weight (including cassette, battery, and multimedia card): 1.3 lbs.

STRENGTHS

• Good picture quality
• Excellent digital still features
• Headphone and mike jacks

WEAKNESSES

• Mike jack in an awkward place
• Docking station required to mount on a tripod
• No image stabilization

SUMMARY

• A great vacation camcorder that has enough manual controls to grow with a beginner and keep the more advanced shooters happy.

PERFORMANCE TIMES

• Pause to record: .87 seconds
• Power up to record: 7.68 seconds
• Fast-forward/Rewind (60-minute tape): 5 minutes, 33 seconds

$1,699
JVC of America
1700 Valley Road
Wayne, NJ 07470
(800) 252-5722
www.jvc-america.com

• Digg This!
• del.icio.us
• Technorati
• StumbleUpon
• Reddit