Canon HV30 Camcorder Reviewby David KenderPublished on Jan 28, 2008 5:00 PM
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Compression (7.0)
The Canon HV30 records and outputs video in the HDV format, which is a type of MPEG-2. HDV is the oldest and most venerable of the consumer high definition formats. With age comes some benefits, such as near universal support from video editing software released within the last few years. HDV compression has so far proven to be superior to the competing compression, AVCHD. HDV records at a higher bit rate of 25Mbps, while AVCHD is peaking at an average of about 16 or Mbps, depending on the manufacturer. While AVCHD is more space efficient, its codec is extremely complex, and a powerful computer is needed to work with native files. HDV, on the other hand, offers a more streamlined editing process. Also, AVCHD shows more compression artifacts in the final footage than HDV.
We don’t expect HDV to keep its edge too much longer. At some point, maybe even this year, engineers will figure out how at least match its quality. Most of the AVCHD camcorders for 2008 are recording in 1920 x 1080, while HDV is forever locked at 1440 x 1080, then stretched for playback. The gains that the “full HD” camcorders make in resolution are expected to be offset by the lingering compression artifacts and other headaches of AVCHD, but it’s only a matter of time before they crack the code.
The Canon HV30 also offers a standard definition in traditional DV compression. When in DV mode, the camcorder can shoot in SP (60 minutes) or LP mode (90 minutes).
Media (6.0)
The Canon HV30 records to standard MiniDV tapes, the same kind in use on standard definition DV camcorders. MiniDV tapes are readily available in most stores that carry any kind of blank media. In HDV mode, a single tape holds 60 minutes of video. In DV mode, SP quality holds 60 minutes and LP quality holds 90 minutes.
MiniDV tapes have advantages and disadvantages over competing media. Tape is slightly more likely to survive a drop than DVD, but less than solid state, and about the same as an HDD. Tape, like DVD, is an instant archived and easily replaceable. However, tape holds far more video than DVD (60 minutes versus an average 20 minutes). HDD has the highest capacity ranging from seven to eighty hours, depending on capacity and quality settings.
Editing (7.0)
Editing HDV footage is the easiest of any consumer high definition footage, mainly because HDV has been around longer than competing formats AVCHD and JVC’s MPEG-2 transport stream. You’ll need a fairly robust computer to work with any HD footage, but not as much as you’d need to work with AVCHD.
As long as you’re shooting in 60i, the assurance of compatibility tends to hold true. Shooting in 24P and 30P can become a problem, however, with consumer-grade editing software. Pro-level software such as Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, and Avid Xpress Pro have no problem, but very few casual shooters will have the money or the inclination to learn these complex systems. If you’re planning on using the alternate frame rates on the HV20 or the HV30, be sure you have the editing software to support it. Information should be readily available in the forum or FAQ sections of software manufacturers.
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