JVC GR-D295 First Impressions Review

The JVC GR-D295 is the highest in price of the three being released at CES within the new Compact model line, and still manages to retail just under US $400 at US$399.95. This camera features a rather standard 1/6th inch 680K CCD, and is equipped with a 2.5 inch LCD. Unlike last years models which placed controls under the LCD screen, this years model has moved these controls onto the exterior of the camera body. However, for under five hundred dollars, the number of manual controls including white balance, focus, exposure, and gain is extensive. There are some drawbacks to the GR-D295. The user must rely on the built-in microphone as no mic port is available. Additionally, the low light performance which was so successful and heralded last year may be in question with this current line-up's lack of 3-D Noise Reduction, which helped last year's JVCs superb in low light environments, like your living room. Luckily, this noise reduction feature is still available on the Ultra Compact JVC series this year. Maybe we can expect better things from that crew.

Video Performance
While the JVC GR-D295 has several features which may make video performance desirable, it may not have the same quality results in low light shooting situations that were garnered with last year's models. Although Night Alive and Super High Band Processors come with this model, there is no 3-D Noise Reduction, a feature now reserved for the more expensive Ultra Compact models. Testing will be necessary to assure that a change in quality has occurred or if these features alone were responsible for the quality of image produced. However, this camera is still equipped with the same 1/6th inch 680K CCD that was found on last years model, so it can be assumed that much of the video performance that was lauded in the prior year will still be applicable with this model.

The Front
The front of the JVC GR-D205 situates the microphone to the left of the bottom of the camera body, and away from any controls which might accidentally allow for meandering hands to mask audio quality, though the crackle of the strap's velcro might be picked up. Above the microphone are the light sensors for the camcorder, above which sit the Auto Illuminate lights. At the top of the front panel, the user will find the lens for the JVC-GRD295.

The Right Side
On the right side of the JVC GR-D295, the user will find the majority of the camera face taken up by the cassette cartridge which is hidden beneath a matte gray cover. The cartridge is accessed by sliding the eject button on the bottom of the camera body while pulling the slight tab located at the front of the panel. The bottom loading situation can become quickly frustrating for those users who wish to use a tripod or other device that uses the socket located on the base of the camera, as changing tape will require taking the camcorder off the tripod. So, any event over two or so hours straight becomes a problem to tape. Above this cover is the playback speaker, behindwhich the mode switch--Manual, Automatic, Off, or Playback modes--is located. These settings are denoted by a series of universal and comprehendible symbols--if you speak English--such as A, M, Play, and Off. Running at a slight diagonal from the back to the front of the camera body is the new EZ grip hand strap. The diagonal nature of the strap is definitely good for the handling of the camcorder as it provides easy access to the zoom toggle to the user's index finger, in my opinon the best finger for zooming.

The Back
The back of the JVC GR-D295 features the predominately smaller battery pack, with the Viewfinder located directly above the battery. The viewfinder is recessed and may be pulled from its place when needed for shooting, and replaced easily when finished. To the right of the battery pack and towards the top of the camera body, the user will find the Record On and Off switch for the unit during recording. Between the battery pack and the viewfinder on the right side, the user will find the battery disengage button, which when pressed allows the user to remove the battery from the back of the camera body. Beneath the battery is a port cover, which when removed, allows the user to access the Analog Out, FireWire, and DC In ports for the camera. The port cover is made out of a dark plastic similar in color to the battery, and is attached via a somewhat tenuous rubber connector located at the base of the camera body.

The Left Side
On the left side of the JVC GR-D295 the user will find that JVC has chosen to move the VCR, manual control, and other feature controls to the exterior of the camera body, allowing users faster and easier access. These are double control functions, with VCR and Shooting mode functions on each button; they are Stop/Backlight, Play/Focus, Rewind/Return, Fast Forward/Night Alive, and Menu/Data. These buttons allow the user to monitor battery life, menu controls, as well as accessory features. Beneath these controls is the LCD screen, which is opened by pulling the screen from a tab on the back edge of the LCD. Once open, the user will find a 2.5 inch 110K resolution LCD with low glare. Beneath the LCD screen are two controls that may be used by the user during shooting. The first is the Tape/Memory Card switch located towards the back of the camera body, and is easily engaged. The second control is the Light button, which when pressed activates or deactivates the Auto Illumination light on the front of the camera body. The memory card slot is located under a slender and vertical port cover located adjacent to the back edge of the LCD screen next to the tab which opens the screen. Once opened the user will be able to effortlessly place the memory card in without difficulty. This feature is labeled with a full text description found underneath the LCD screen.

The Top
There are two controls located on the top portion of the JVC GR-D295. They are both located towards the back of the camera body and near the fingers of the right hand, allowing for quick and simple access during shooting. The more frontally located button is the Zoom control, which allows the user to set the Wide Angle or Telephoto rating of the camcorder. Behind this control is the Live Slow button for when the camera is in tape mode, and the Shutter button, when the camera is set to record digital still images to memory card. The zoom toggle can also double as a volume control for the audio during playback. It's nice to be able to control both with the index finger as well.

Picture & Manual Control
Automatic Control
The automatic control for the JVC GR-D295, when engaged, freezes the menu, and forces the user to entirely rely upon the automatic settings and decisions dictated by the camcorder's processor in regards to lighting, shutter speed, white balance and other control options. However, the user can still control zoom, Auto Illuminate, Card or Tape choices, and Live Slow. The absolute inaccessibility of the menu system when the camera is placed in auto mode is aggrivating, though I suppose that is what the point-and-shooter wants. Also, other companies such as Sony, at least allow the user to access the menu, or control spot metering, or other lighting and image options.

Unfortunately, specific automatic adjustments could not be adequately assested at the JVC booth at CES; stay tuned for our full review of the JVC GR-D295 and a full analysis of its automatic controls. One thing we can say is that automatic focus adjustment has a terrible time at high zoom levels.

Overall Manual Control
The JVC GR-D295 comes equipped with many manual control features, a great asset to the manual control enthusiast who is also on a budget. Also, with JVC's decision to move the controls from beneath the LCD screen allows the user more freedom to choose between the viewfinder or LCD for during capture monitoring. And, the more choice, the better. The JVC GR-D295 comes with manual focus, exposure, white balance, shutter speed, and gain. These controls are all initially found through the main menu. However, there is a shortcut: once manual controls have been established, the user can quickly scan options without having to constantly move back and forth between the menu and the image. Although this plethora of manual controls are to be applauded on such a low priced camera, especially in a time where less and less options are available to budget consumers, many manual controls, except maybe the zoom, may never be used. Even though the controls were moved to the exterior of the camera (a positive improvement over last years model) the actual in menu control is frustrating. Controlling manual options throuhg menu system is a slow and laborious process, an unfortunate final outcome since so many options are available. It would be better to use a dial or a ring or something like that.

Zoom
The JVC GR-D295 is equipped with a large 25X optical zoom, a move that has been common amongst manufacturers in lower priced camcorders. Interestingly, this camcorder has 10x more optical zoom potential than the more expensive Ultra Compact series JVC this year. They also placed zoom levels digitally at 800x; however, it should be noted that these inflated digital zoom result in compromised image quality when engaged at higher levels.

There is also another consideration for the consumer which is relevant to recording at high levels of zoom. It is often necessary with zoom levels over 15x to engage a tripod even if DIS is available on the camera. This is due to the sensitivity of the camera to slight hand movement, even if it is merely a subtle quiver. It was impossible to truly gauge the zoom at 25x, due to the hall size at CES. However, it would be in JVC's interest to improve lens quality rather than zoom level, even if this has to be explained to the user as being a better decision to a huge zoom rating.

Focus
The focus is manually controllable by the user, and is accessed through the Play/Focus button located above the LCD screen on the left side of the camcorders body. When pressed, the user will have the choice of moving between Landscape and Portrait mode, through the engagement of the rewind and fast forward buttons. This set up is fairly straight forward, and self contained, although a more autonomous lay-out for focus would be desirable, since multi-functionality can at times become overwhelming. Obviously, some sort of focus ring would be great.

Exposure (Aperture)
The exposure settings for the JVC GR-D295 are located within the main menu and allow the user to control the exposure settings in thirteen autonomous settings. The exposure, like all of the manual controls, are also able to be controlled automatically by the camera. The exposure settings range from -6 to +6, in one step increments, and they include 0. The exposure settings are accessed by initiating the manual mode within the main menu, and then accessing the short cut menu located on the left side of the LCD screen. This allows for fast adjustments to be made as the shooting enviroment changes. It would be better to actual independant F-stop adjustment values for iris, and also independant shutter speed values, but I guess Panasonic is still winning in this department.

Shutter Speed
Shutter speed for the JVC GR-D295 is also accessed under the main menu, and is entirely contained for first initiation through a sub menu. When the sub menu is entered by the user, they can choose a shutter speed from one of the following 7 settings; 1/60, 1/100, 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, and 1/4000. There are also a number of presets available to users unsure of the proper shutter setting, and these are located directly beneath these more specific ratings. These scene modes are Sports, Snow, Spotlight, Twilight, Sepia, Monotone, Classic Film, Strobe, and Mirror. However, it seems implausible that a user uncomfortable with setting a shutter speed would even enter the menu and scroll down until they found the programmed pre-sets, but perhaps pigs can fly. However, not to be too negative, it is commendable that JVC has placed manual shutter speed on the Compact line of camcorders, especially since other manufacturers with new products at CES have chosen not to, further restricting user control, an unfortunate trend in this market today. It would have been nice to see some slow speed options though.

White Balance
The White Balance settings are controlled on the JVC GR-D295 through accessing the on-screen LCD menu and allow the user to choose between the following settings: Manual White Balance, Fine, Cloud, and Halogen. Though these settings are adequate, it may be more desirable, for the more uncertain user, to leave this setting at auto, as an inordinate number of choices are not available with this model line, which is too bad, since presets are often the best way for a user to become more comfortable and familiar with control options, something that should be considered since manual control is possible. However, it should be noted that there is absolutely no white balance opportunities, presets or otherwise, available when in auto mode, another setback for the transition user.

Gain
The gain control on the JVC GR-D295 allows the user to select between three settings located in the LCD menu. These choices are AGC, Off and Automatic A(candle icon). With only three possible settings, most users are likely to leave this feature set to the automatic mode setting. This not true manual gain control but rather an automatic function; grain dramatically increases. Also, A (candle icon) dramatically lowers the shutter speed to aid brightness. The slower the shutter, the more light, also, the more trailing, blurring and, in this case, ugly noise.

Still Performance
Unlike the lowest model of the three in the series, the GR-D270 and the GR-D295 allows the user to save images to SD memory card, unlike the GR-D250 which can only print still images to tape. The progressive shutter feature on this camera selects individual frames to be selected for still images, rather than compiling multiple frames to create a single photo, often causing the blurring images common to some camcorders during still capture. The maximum shutter speed on the camera is 1/4000th of a second, with a minimum shutter speed of 1/60th, and with seven steps between. It should be noted that the memory card needed for the card slot, is not included in the price of the camcorder, and must be purchased separately.

VCR Mode
This camcorder is switched into VCR mode when the user moves the power switch all the way forward until it rests in the playback position. Once engaged, the user can use the VCR controls on the left side of the camera body to review footage. It is also possible to review still images, as well as moving footage in Live Slow (a slow motion setting). Volume is controlled through the zoom toggle located on the top of the camera body. The VCR mode has its own menu, separate from that of the shooting menu, and is simpler and easier to navigate than the shooting menu. Since the controls are located on the external surface of the camera body, the user is now able to edit or review video/still image footage, through either the LCD screen or the Viewfinder, a nice addition when worried about battery life or other concerns.

Low Light Performance
The low light performance was one of the most remarked upon aspects of JVC's camcorders last year. However, this year's models may not be able to attain the same high quality of low light performance previously admired. This years models being released at CES are only being partially equipped with the 3 D Noise Reduction technology credited with creating low noise levels, and the use of the camcorder's auto gain control will probably only increase the noise in general. Only the GR-DF models will be equipped with this Noise reduction technology. The JVC GR-D295 unfortunately not feature this feature. However, there is still the Night Alive option, which JVC assures will continue their strong color reproduction in low light situations. Though we have our doubts. And finally, if necessary, this model does feature an Auto Illumination light which may be activated to illuminate low light situations. However, these lights tend to over compensate and wash out color and scene specificity, giving everything a caught-in-headlights quality. At the end of the day though, it is impossible for us to truly gauge the low light possibilities of the JVC GR-D295 as lighting possibilities at the show were neither standardized or appropriate. Once the camera is brought into our testing area proper results and readings will be possible.

LCD/ Viewfinder
The LCD for the JVC GR-D295 is 2.5 inches diagonally, and has a pixel resolution of 110K. The LCD has a glare reduction feature added onto it which should cut down on glare in strong lighting situations such as backlighting, or bright sun. There is also an electronic color viewfinder. With the VCR controls and other buttons located on the exterior of the camera body, this years model by JVC allows the user to actually engage these features while viewing images through the Viewfinder, rather than relying solely on the LCD.

Audio
This camera, like all of the camcorders being released at this time by JVC within the GR-D line, is unfortunately without a microphone in port forcing the user to rely on the sometimes questionable audio quality of on-camera microphones. However, this camera does have audio dubbing for playback overdubbing an interesting feature, if one rarely used by most. Also, there is no specifically assigned headphone out jack available to the users of the JVC GR-D295. These setbacks display a startling trend towards oversimplification and degradation in audio options available on camcorders within the consumer market overall. Users of camcorders should have an external mic option available, and this reviewer would also argue for an accessory shoe, however, just a port would be a great improvement. Just because the camera is reasonably priced doesn't mean that the buyer is dull-witted, or unable to engage a mic. Having to use another audio set-up along with a camcorder is an excessive aggravation that is unneeded.

Handling
The JVC GR-D295 is a small sleek compact camera, which the right hand can easily hold without any sort of help given to the left hand. It feels sturdy and is lightweight, with a smaller battery, and a smaller body overall from last years models. This camcorder, has a series of finger grooves on the right side of the camera body for extra grip, and the buttons are still large enough and separated far enough from one another to allow for fast and concise control changes without extra worry or concern. The major concern that I have lies in the rather small space given to the ports located beneath the battery. If more than one port were used at a time, or if the battery wasn't removed, obstruction or accidental unplugging seems highly possible. This aside, the decision to move controls out from under the LCD made most of the concerns regarding handling disappear, and the fact that the camera is 30% smaller doesn't hurt in the portability category. The decision to move controls outside the camera body is a great improvement over the limited options with last year's model, which hid controls beneath the LCD screen. However, the controls, when engaged within the on-screen menu, were both slow and tedious, and constant accidents occurred when in regular mode, as well as when using the shortcut menu. The decrease in overall height led to a more boxy shape and design. All in all though, this camera definitely handles with more confidence than last year's model.

Ports
There are several different port options available to the user of the JVC GR-D295, however, not all are In and Out ports, thus limiting the user's options. This camera has a Firewire, USB 2.0, and a Composite (A/V) Out. It does have Web Camera capability, an accessory shoe, microphone port, or a the ability to support analog to digital pass through.

Other Features
Auto Illumination
The auto illumination feature on the JVC GR-D295 allows the user to illuminate low light situations with an on camera light, and gives the user more opportunities for shooting during complicated shooting situations.
Data Battery Button
The data battery button, when pressed on the external body of the JVC GR-D295, allows the user to monitor the battery life of the camcorder when either in recording mode, or when in stand-by. This feature allows for a more concious conservation of battery, while hopefully eliminating dying batteries during shooting. With the addition of this feature, the GR-D295 finally catches up with the other manufacturers battery display information.

Progressive Shutter
The progressive shutter feature on the JVC GR-D295 allows the camcorder to individually select single frames during the capturing of still images, rather than selecting from several frames, a setup that lead to the often attained "blurred photos" familiar to many camcorder owners. This shutter feature enhances the hybrid aspects of this camera, and when paired with the SD memory card, makes the JVC GR-D295 an even more alluring camcorder for the first time buyer, or budget hybrid camcorder enthusiast.

Live Slow Feature
The live slow feature, when engaged during video capture, takes real time footage and immediately lowers the speed, creating slow motion during the original recording. This feature can also be engaged when in playback and when viewing previously captured footage.

Web Camera
The web camera feature on the JVC GR-D295 allows the user to engage this camcorder not only in regular capturing of video to tape, and stills to tape or memory card, but also enables the opportunity to run live video to the internet. The camera may be installed on personal computers and can replace lower quality lower resolution cameras with poor audio quality that are normally marketed to web camera consumers.

Navigation Function:
With only one major Shooting menu, and one major VCR menu, entering the navigation system for the JVC GR-D295 is fairly simple and straightforward, the user must merely press the Menu button located on the left side of the camcorder body. Once pressed the user may find that the actual navigation of the menu could be a bit more complicated, with some of the submenus difficult to move between quickly, and unintended detours occurring more often than desired. However, once the user becomes acquainted with the return control, and where it is within each menu, the process is quickly expedited, and shortcuts discovered. Also, there is the shortcut menu located on the left side of the LCD screen. This shortcut menu when accessed, allows the user to not have to enter the regular menu and to make minor changes to already set down manual control settings.

Widescreen Mode
With this model of camcorder, like all of the camcorders released within the Ultra Compact and Compact series of camcorders, the JVC GR-D295 only has a widescreen effect, which essentially just places a black bar at the top and bottom of the image frame,

MPEG
There appears to be no MPEG format options available on the compact series of camcorders.

Analog to Digital Pass Through
Due to the lack of Analog In ports, it is impossible for the user of the GR-D295 to engage in analog to digital passthrough.

Conclusion
This model within the JVC Compact line is the most expensive of the three models. However, it still manages to remain under US$400, retailing for US$399.95. This camera has identical specs and layout and design as the GR-D270, and an identical body to the GR-D270, with Auto Illuminate Light, Super High-Band Processor, Data Battery Info, 1/6th inch 680K CCD, 2.5 inch LCD, color viewfinder, Progressive Shutter, Night Alive, Manual control options, and a 30% smaller size than last years models.

As mentioned, this camera, like the other two within the series, does not come equipped with the 3-D Noise Reduction technology, a feature that was partially responsible for the low light testing results that attained JVC such high ratings. JVC finally placed the controls for the VCR and manual settings outside the interior of the LCD screen, finally making it possible to review and alter settings while using the viewfinder exclusively, but we'll see if such enhancements can help the GR-D295 stay above water if bad low light performance occurs. Additionally, many of the enhancements found on the GR-D295 include a downside. For example, the controls and menu structure don't quite work together, and navigating the menu takes time to learn. However, the shortcut menu on the left side of the LCD screen makes quick adjustments without hassle possible.

In fact, this camcorder is pretty much identical to the JVC-GRD270, the only differences being a second battery and a remote control along with improved software packages. While the remote isn't very important in our opinion, the extra battery is a good add on. Most users are going to buy an extra battery anyways, so having the included extra battery is good. To be honest though, you can get a good 3rd party JVC battery for about $50, so if you're only buying the GR-D295 over the GR-D270 for the battery, save yourself some money and just buy the camcorder plus an external battery. We should also stress that JVC doesn't sell the remote seperately, so if you want the remote you are going to have to go with the JVC-GRD270. This camcorder, like the GR-D270, would be a good choice for the user seeking manual control at a budget price.