JVC Everio GZMG155 1MP 30GB Hard Disk Drive Camcorder with 32x Optical Zoom (Includes Docking Station)
The GZ-MG155 Everio Hard Drive Camcorder you can record all the stuff that makes life more fun. Whether you’re recording the family football game or your child’s first play, the 1/6-inch 680k pixel CCD gets every part of the action. The 32x optical & 800x Digital Hyper Zoom lets you record every event, and the 2.7-inch LCD monitor lets you preview while you record. The built-in 30GB hard drive lets you record everything without having to carry tapes or memory cards; you can then transfer directly to a computer through the USB port, at an incredible 12x transfer rate. Share the highlights of your life more easily with the GZ-MG155 Everio Hard Drive Camcorder. 470 lines of resolution 16 - 9 video mode (high-quality) Digital still capture (640×480) Built-in DVD control (share station) SD card slot USB 2.0 12x transfer rate Auto illumination light Power-linked operation Includes remote control PictBridge compatible Data battery (VF714) Multi-language controls (4 languages) Stick controller button MPEG editing, Cyberlink & Photo Navigator software included
I bought this camera to videotape legal depositions. Not very exciting stuff, but they typically run for hours. Mini-DV cameras only run for about an hour. I didn’t want to have to stop and switch tapes every hour. This HD camera can record 14 hours with quality sufficient for what I’m doing. I tested it over a few days and just burned a DVD a few minutes ago on my computer. The camera is small, lightweight, easy to use, and can go for hours. I can easily burn DVD’s through my computer or home VHS/DVD recorder. I’m thrilled.
However, it’s important to mention:
(1) The quality of this camera is not as good as a dedicated “tape” camera. I have always loved JVC since I bought my first camcorder (remember the purple video camera used by Marty McFly in the “Back To The Future” movies?). Analog VHS/VHC or 8mm still look the most natural. I have a Mini-DV JVC that I thought I would sell after buying this HD camera, but I’ve changed my mind. My other JVC has a better anti-shake feature and the image quality appears better. The colors are not as accurate with the HD camera and the action doesn’t flow as smoothly. I will still probably use the Mini-DV camera where a more natural appearance is important.
(2) Even though the HD camera can record for hours, the battery only lasts an hour. Buy an extra JVC “hulk” battery (5 hours of juice?) when you buy the HD camera.
(3) If this camera were to malfunction or be stolen, you’d lose a whole lot of video footage. Back it up regularly or stick with a tape camera.