JVC GR-D650 High Band Digital Video Camera

The new JVC GR-series MiniDV camcorders have several new features, including selected models with a 32X optical zoom, widescreen (16:9) modes and a 1.3X tele-conversion mode. JVC’s new MiniDV camcorders (including the JVC GR-D650 MiniDV) are easier to use, with a new Auto button. You simply press the button to switch between manual and automatic operation. All models feature an on-screen menu system, viewable by category.

Do you remember your first Super-8 camera? I do. I shot a lot of footage before moving up to 16mm film. But film stock and processing is expensive. Today's filmmakers have wonderful, affordable video camcorders to use. I reviewed the JVC GR-D650 MiniDV, which runs about $399.99 (less from discounters). 

The JVC GR-D650 MiniDVcamcorder's features include: a data battery that displays time remaining even without LCD usage; Live Slow, which records slow motion scenes while retaining real-time audio; and JVC’s Auto Illumi-Light for illuminating dark scenes. The Power-Linked operation turns on power and puts the camcorder in standby mode by opening the LCD. And the JVC GR-D650's Clear LCD Monitor offers a sharp image because it reduces glare, even in bright sunlight. 

The JVC GR-D650 features a 1.33 megapixel CCD. The number of effective pixels is: 690,000 pixels for video, and 1.23 megapixels for photos. For video, you get 540 lines of resolution, so it's broadcast quality. There's a wonderful 15X optical zoom. Digital zoom goes up to 700X, although if you want optimum video quality, it's best to stick with optical zooming only.

The JVC GR-D650 camcorder offers an F1.2 Super Bright Lens, 2.5-inch LCD, 16:9 wide-screen mode, a color viewfinder, a Megabrid Engine for optimal video and still quality, and a remote control. The remote control is useful, especially for including yourself in a shot. (The LCD flips around, so you can see yourself.) Also, you can eliminate camera shaking by using a tripod or placing the camcorder on a solid surface, then controlling it remotely.