JVC on Wednesday announced two new High Definition (HD) Everio-brand hard disk-based camcorders for consumer use. The new GZ-HD6 and GZ-HD5 are expected to go on same in March for $1,399.99 and $1,199.99 respectively.
Both cameras ship with a complement of Windows video editing and download software, but they also include plug-in software “to facilitate data import into various Mac applications.” What’s more, the camcorders work with JVC’s VD40 Everio Share Station, which lets users burn video to DVD without having to use a computer first.
The cameras both utilize Fujinon HD lenses, and employ progressive-scan 3CCD imaging systems. The cameras record video to a built-in hard disk at 1920 x 1080 — full HD video quality, and they provide 1080p 60 frame per second output using HDMI 1.3. They also sport optical image stabilization to reduce camera shake.
Also common to both models is a microphone jack input and manual controls; the cameras both have manual focus rings, manual white balance, exposure control, shutter priority mode, aperture priority mode and sharpness control. There’s a Focus Assist function and a “zebra” function that displays a striped pattern across highlight areas on the image in the LCD monitor to help you adjust exposure.
The main difference between the two units, besides a black chassis on the HD6 and a silver chassis for the HD5, is hard disk space — the HD6 has a 120GB hard disk drive, while the HD5 has a 60GB hard disk. This is suitable for up to 24 or 12 hours of recorded video in the 1440 LP mode, according to JVC.
JVC’s Web site had not been updated with information about the new models as Macworld posted this article.