JVC GZ-HD7 First Impressions Camcorder Reviewby James MurrayPublished on Jan 10, 2007 7:00 PM
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Audio
The HD Everio records audio via either the on-camera stereo microphone positioned on the top front of the lens barrel, or via an external mic connected to the mic jack at the front right side of the body. An cold accessory shoe on the top of the camcorder can be used for attaching external microphones with a standard adaptor.
The inclusion of a microphone jack is an important addition for users concerned with audio quality and is a must for any professional application. This begs the question of how good the GZ-HD7 (Review, Specs, Recent News, $1529) will be and whether it will appeal to pros looking for a low-profile or second camcorder. The inclusion of the mic jack on a camcorder with both a professional grade lens and video bit rates higher than HDV suggest the HD7 may be up to the task.
Playback
Unfortunately, JVC is not releasing too much information at this time regarding playback capabilities and editing features for the JVC HD Everio GZ-HD7. What we do know is that the camcorder is equipped with S-Video, composite and AV-out ports for analog transfer of data while digital viewing and transfer can be accomplished through the use of the iLink, HDMI and USB ports located on the back of the camcorder body. Additionally, JVC has a Direct Backup feature that allows users to immediately backup the content of their camcorders hard disk drive to personal computer. Navigation and selection of footage should be easier with this non-linear format when compared to tape-based camcorders and users should be able to view footage in both a multi-up and single image format in this model.
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Ports include S-Video, component-out, HDMI, DV, USB 2.0, and DC-in. |
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The JVC HD Everio GZ-HD7 camcorder has a number of port options for users. On the back of the camcorder body are four ports located beneath two covers at the base of the camcorder body. These port covers open via tabs located along their bottom edge. The left port cover masks ports for USB, HDMI, and i.LINK. Most users will find the HDMI is mostly used for viewing footage digitally on HDTV and other large screen displays, while the i.LINK (aka FireWire or IEEE 1394) terminal facilitates data transfer for editing or archiving. To the right of these three terminals, and masked beneath its own cover, is a fourth port that allows the user to connect the camcorder to a DC power source.
On the left side of the camcorder body are two ports located inside the LCD cavity for S-Video and composite video out. Although uncovered, these ports will be protected by the closed LCD screen when the camcorder is packed away.
Finally, on the right side of the camcorder body near the manual focus ring is another port cover protecting the external mic jack and the AV out terminal. As previously noted, the location of the mic jack may be too close the hand strap during hand-held shooting.