Canon ZR500 First Impressions Camcorder Review

by James Murray
Published on Jan 20, 2006 4:00 PM

Intro Performance
Format Tour
Auto / Manual Controls Still Features
Handling and Use
Audio / Playback / Connectivity
Other Features Comparisons / Conclusion


Audio
Strange as it may seem, the ZR500 is only model in the ZR series to include a microphone input. Evidently, the decision to equip less expensive camcorders with more audio options was in direct reaction to the demands of educators who need inexpensive camcorders as well as expanded audio options. While certainly not wishing to disrespect this evidently key sector of Canon’s market, I think that camcorder manufacturers would find that users who are willing to pay more are also after more features, not less.

Not only do they include the option for an external mic, but the jack is well-placed on the right side of the body, reducing the possibility that a dangling wire will not get in the way of a shot. Unfortunately, there is no accessory shoe on top in which to place a mic.

A built-in stereo microphone is located in the lower front of the body, under the lens. Audio quality can be set at 12bit or 16bit. A Wind Screen feature is available, which cuts the low end of the audio signal to reduce wind noise. There is no manual control of audio levels.

VCR Mode
 The VCR mode for the ZR500 is entered when the user switches the mode is set on “Play.” Once the camcorder is in playback mode users can navigate the MiniDV tape through the use of the four-way control pad. As we are now awash in a market of DVD and solid state camcorders, playback on a MiniDV can seem slow and tedious – all that tape to wind back and forth. It’s like the Stone Age! Seriously though, playback on the ZR500 is straightforward and perfectly serviceable. The big hassle is the bottom loading tape mechanism. If the camcorder is in a tripod, changing tapes can become time-consuming.

Ports
 There are several ports available on the ZR500, most found on the right side of the ZR500’s body, underneath a rubber port cover: DV (FireWire), composite A/V-out, and mic-in ports which are positioned so as to not be blocked or compromised by either the tape compartment or the right-hand grip, a common mistake on camcorders with ports on this side. On the back of the ZR500, below the battery and right near the bottom, users will find a DC-in port. This camcorder does not support analog-to-digital conversion or pass through. With the cut in price from the ZR600 to the ZR500, you lose the USB port and the SD card slot; however, you do gain the mic input.


<< Handling and Use | Other Features >>