Hitachi DZ-GX3300A Camcorder Review

by David Kender
Published on Jul 1, 2006 8:00 AM

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

News: Hitachi Promises First Blu-Ray Camcorder by Year's End · Hitachi Unveils Two New DVD Camcorders: DZ-GX5020A and DZ-GX5080A · Hitachi Brings Hybrid DVD/HDD to the US


 

Widescreen/16:9 Mode (6.0)
The GX3300 (Specs, $498) offers a 16:9 mode, which crops the top and bottom of the 4:3 image to create a widescreen aspect ratio. With this method, you actually end up with less information in the picture than in 4:3, precisely the opposite intention of “widescreen.” This is a rather poor showing for a top of the line camcorder from any manufacturer. Also frustrating is the means of switching aspect ratios,  which is buried in the menu and not terribly accessible.

 

The Canon DC40 (Review, Specs, $539.99) also uses this crop technique, but at least makes it easier to switch with an external button, as does the Sony DVD405 (Review, Specs, $649). The Panasonic VDR-D300 (Review, Specs, $534.89) also uses the crop method, leaving the Hitachi in familiar, if disappointing company.

Scan Rates/24p (0.0)
The Hitachi DZ-GX3300 (Specs, $498) uses a 60i scan rate alone, and does not offer 24p or any other rate. No other DVD camcorder in its class offers these options.

Other Features (2.5)
DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R and DVD+RW Compatibility - Hitachi has chosen to differentiate their DVD camcorder line by making compatible with a wide range of DVD formats, and the DZ-GX3300 supports DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD-R and DVD+RW discs.

Swift Restart- The DZ-GX3300 includes a sleep mode, which can be engaged by pressing the prominent Sleep/Restart button on the top of the camcorder’s body. Entering sleep mode causes the button to glow blue, and pressing the button again starts up the camcorder in about one second. Placing a camcorder in sleep mode generally draws battery power at half the rate of paused record mode, but Hitachi does not specify power use during this mode.

Menu Flow - It is possible to toggle between the DZ-GX3300’s default full menu and a quick menu that displays only fundamental menu items. Point-and-shoot users who have no interest in accessing the camcorder’s full feature set may find the quick menu option useful.

Wind Cut - The DZ-GX3300 includes a wind cut feature that reduces the buffeting effects of wind when recording sound via the on-board microphone. This feature is called Mic Filter, and is available from the Camera Functions Setup menu within the main Menu. The Mic Filter does not work when recording sound through an external mic.

 

 

 



<< Audio/Playback/Connectivity | Comparisons/Conclusion >>