JVC Everio GZ-HD6 Camcorder Review

JVC GZ-HD5

JVC GZ-HD7
When JVC debuted this monstrous HDD titan last year, we thought Armageddon was inevitable. But after testing the GZ-HD7 ($1,699.95 MSRP), we realized that the video quality was not quite as earth-shattering as we had projected. The GZ-HD7’s three 1/5-inch CCDs produce an image strikingly similar to the GZ-HD6’s—JVC merely carried over the same imagers, yet altered the processing. In terms of handling, the GZ-HD7 quashes the GZ-HD6. Its buttery Focus ring, wide rubberized viewfinder, and external Aperture Priority and Shutter Speed buttons are a formidable gang to rumble with. Though the GZ-HD6 is more compact, it skimps on the prosumer feel you get from the GZ-HD7. The only benefit we see is the GZ-HD6’s 60P playback, which only works when the camcorder is connected to an HDTV (if that TV supports 1080p and only then in an HDMI connection is used). Considering the improvements in image stabilization in the GZ-HD6, this is perhaps the better buy. If you’re obsessed with handling, you’re probably also obsessed with image quality and have already discounted the GZ-HD7 from consideration.

Sony HDR-SR12
We just received the Sony HDR-SR12 ($1,399 MSRP) and it looks like a golden nugget of camcorder goodness. This warrior has a 1/3.15-inch CMOS chip with new EXMOR processing Sony claims will reduce noise. Until we run it through our labs, let’s talk about the HDR-SR12’s glorious construction. Slick retractable port covers, a pivoting viewfinder, and an ample 3.5-inch LCD screen are just the beginning. The HDR-SR12 also has a Cam Control Dial, hot shoe, and feels so good in the hand, you’d think you were holding onto a cloud—a very sexy, gunmetal and black colored cloud. The HDR-SR12 employs Sony’s user-friendly Home menu system and so far it looks good in low light. We’ll have the review up soon, but keep your eye on the HDR-SR12—it’s a highly promising camcorder.

Canon HF10
Canon’s gotten the broom out and swept up most of the competition within the past year. The HF10 ($1099 MSRP) ranks amongst the HV20 and HV30, which are nearly impossible to top in terms of raw performance. With beautiful video in bright and low light, three different frame rates to shoot in (60i/24P/30P), stellar audio options, and an ultra compact body, the HF10 is the camcorder to beat. Unfortunately, the GZ-HD6 cannot contend with the video quality, wealth of shooting options, size, and price factor. The only thing the HD6 has going for it is a massive 120GB HDD that allows for nearly a half day of shooting in the highest quality and 60P playback on an HDTV. Take the money you save with the HF10 and buy a 16GB SDHC card to double your recording capacity.

Panasonic HDC-HS9
The HDC-HS9 ($1,099 MSRP) is already in the labs, and easy to make predictions on video quality. The camcorder is identical to the HDC-SD9, but with a 60GB HDD. That being said, expect identical video quality, the same vexing Joystick placement in the LCD cavity, and equivalent Manual controls. The only improvement the HDC-HS9 will bring about is handling, since the camcorder now has a larger body that’s easier to grip. The HDC-HS9 has excellent onboard audio control and a great menu system. In this case, it’s a try before you buy. Keep in mind that the HDC-HS9 is $300 cheaper. Raw video performance will be sharper than the JVC GZ-HD6, but grainier too. The low light performance will be about the same.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters
If you want to be the first in your development to boast 60P playback on your gargantuan HDTV, then the GZ-HD6 is for you. Otherwise, the HDR-SR12 and Canon HF10 will win the hearts of HD-lusting beginners worldwide.

Budget Consumers
Not here. JVC HD is expensive, even for the videophile. The Panasonic HDC-SD9 is only $800 if you absolutely must have an HD camcorder.

Still Photo / Video Camera Hybrid
The still photo options are mediocre on the GZ-HD6. Look into the Canon HF10 or Sony HDR-SR12 if you want more versatility.

Gadget Freaks
That 60P playback and sexy black design will lure in geeks from near and far, but that’s about all the GZ-HD6 has going for it.

Manual Control Freaks
JVC’s Function menu is convenient and intuitive. Those who want to take the reins will be pleased with the GZ-HD6’s Focus Assist and Aperture Priority.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists
The low light just can’t cut it, and you can’t import the 60P footage taken with the GZ-HD6. Also, what happened to the prosumer charm characterized by the GZ-HD7? Just not worth it, pros.

Conclusion
The JVC Everio GZ-HD6, with a 120GB HDD, has capacity on its side. For that matter, so does the Sony HDR-SR12, which has the same amount of storage. Beyond that, JVC has a hard road to hoe convincing consumers to choose its camcorder over the competition. First, the obstacles: JVC has chosen the MPEG-2 TS format over the competing AVCHD format, the latter being clearly more popular and therefore more commonly compatible with editing software. In most cases, you’re required to use the in-the-box software as an intermediary step before importing video clips into anything else. Additionally, JVC has made minor algorithm improvements for image quality since its first HD Everio, the GZ-HD7, but uses the same hardware, even after the HD7’s performance was roundly criticized for failing to match the competition. Finally, the $1,399 price tag is steep, though it matches the price of the Sony HDR-SR12.

The positives of the JVC GZ-HD6 shouldn’t be overlooked. While it doesn’t stand up in raw performance compared to the competition, the picture still looks quite good on a big HDTV. The manual control package is excellent, and the manual focus system is still the best in its class. The addition of the mic jack, headphone jack, and accessory shoe (albeit a cold shoe) are welcome additions to the HD Everio line. The image stabilization works exceptionally well.

The 1080/60P is not really the compelling feature it might seem. The footage recorded to the HDD is 1080/60i, so that's all you get when you transfer clips out via the USB. Only when you're using the Everio as your playback device can you take advantage of the 1080/60P. The camcorder internally upconverts from the 1080i to the 1080p using the Genessa engine technology from their HDTV line. More conditions must be met as well:  your TV must support 1080p and you must use the HDMI as the connection type. It won't work with component or anything else.

Is it the best buy in its class? No. The Canon HF10, a third-generation AVCHD model, has shown the best performance thus far, though the 16GB capacity is much smaller. Expect a third-generation HDD AVCHD camcorder from Canon later in the year to replace the HG10. Testing is not finished on the Sony HDR-SR12, Sony’s third-generation AVCHD camcorder, but from what we’ve seen so far the image quality is excellent, with a feature set to match. That does have an equivalent 120GB HDD, but Sony won’t match JVC for manual control. So far, both the Canon and the Sony look like better values than the JVC GZ-HD6, but neither match every feature JVC offers.