The JVC GR-DV2000's biggest attraction is its hybrid design. It combines a Mini DV video and digital still camera in a functional package, but stretches the pocketbook at $2,199. If digital stills are as important to you as digital video and you want the two-in-one convenience, the DV2000 is worth checking out.

Format: Mini DV
Lens: 10:1 optical zoom, 40:1 or 300:1 Digital, F1.8
Image Sensor: 1/4-inch CCD, 680,000 pixels
Viewfinder: 3.5-inch color LCD monitor, .44-inch color viewfinder
Focus: auto and manual
Maximum Manual Shutter Speed: 1/250
Exposure: auto, manual
White Balance: auto, manual
Image Stabilization: electronic
Digital Effects: mosaic, sepia, black & white, classic film, strobe, slow1, slow2, echo shutter1/60, shutter1/100, sports, snow, twilight, spotlight, 17 transitions
Inputs: USB, FireWire, microphone
Outputs: USB, FireWire, S-video, composite video, headphone, printer
Edit Interface: JLIP
Other Features: 16MB memory card, 3-mode digital still camera (VGA, XGA, UXGA), hot shoe
Dimensions: 2-15/16"(W) x 3-9/16"(H) x 7-1/16"(D)
Weight (sans tape and battery): 1.4 pounds

Pause to Record: 1.2 seconds
Power-up to Record: 3.5 seconds
Fast-forward/Rewind (30 min. tape): 3 minutes 5 seconds Approx.

• Digital stills
• Ease to use
• Manual controls
• USB, FireWire and S-video I/O

• Low optical zoom ratio
• Low shutter speed

The JVC GR-DV2000 delivers great looking digital video and stills, but may be a little pricey for most hobbyists.

GR-DV2000 Mini DV Camcorder ($2,199)
JVC of America
1700 Valley Road
Wayne, NJ 07470
(800) 252-5722
www.jvc-america.com