JVC GZ-MG555 Camcorder Reviewby David KenderPublished on Jun 11, 2007 9:00 AM
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Compression (4.0)
The JVC GZ-MG555 (Review, Specs, $626) outputs video in the MPEG-2 format in four quality settings: Ultra Fine (720 x 480, 8.5Mbps), Fine (720 x 480, 5.5Mbps), Normal (720 x 480, 4.2Mbps), and Economy (352 x 240, 1.5Mbps). Why they call Normal “normal” is a mystery, as you will invariably want to record in the highest possible quality. The image falls off pretty quickly after Ultra Fine. All four settings record at a variable bit rate (VBR). VBR, as opposed to a constant bit rate (CBR), records less data when there is less movement. While VBR makes for a more efficient use of space, it can sometimes do a poor job with fast motion. We found the MG555 to perform fine in this regard, comparable to equally priced DVD and HDD camcorders.
Media (6.0)
The GZ-MG555 captures video and stills primarily to a 30GB HDD. For a top-of-the-line model, the HDD is about average. The Panasonic HDC-H200 also has a 30GB capacity. Sony’s DCR-SR300 (Review, Specs, $761.95) offers 40GB, but also costs $100 more.
Overall, HDD is one of the best formats. In Ultra Fine mode, the camcorder can store up to 7 hours of footage, which should give people enough shooting time until they can get to a computer or DVD burner. The HDD is fairly well-protected with shock absorbers and a feature that can detect sudden shifts in acceleration (as in a drop) and pull the read/write needle away from the disk to prevent scratches.
The main menu has several options for HDD maintainence
HDD has some drawbacks, though. Archiving is not as simple as tape and DVD, which is as simple as popping it out of the camcorder and onto a shelf. Footage must be backed up to a storage drive or a DVD. JVC offers a stand-alone DVD burner specifically for this purpose, called a Share Station, that sells for a little under $200. The second issue with HDD is the “all eggs in one basket” problem. If footage has not been backed up and the HDD fails, well… there goes your vacation footage. Finally, we’ve received word from owners of the GZ-MG555 (Review, Specs, $626)’s predecessor, the GZ-MG505 (Review, Specs, $829.95), that the camcorder cannot be used for recording in high-vibration environments like car racing.
The MG555 also allows for record video and stills to SD cards, which load under the body. While the largest SD card – 4GB – is a mere fraction of the HDD’s capacity, there are some advantages. Memory cards are removable, and they do allow you to record in shakier environments. No card comes included with the GZ-MG555 (Review, Specs, $626).
Editing (5.0)
Working with most MPEG-2 camcorders has its hang-ups when it comes to editing. The JVC GZ-MG555 (Review, Specs, $626) is no exception. When connected to a computer via USB, the HDD can be accessed like any external hard drive. Video clips are split into .MOD and .MOI files. You cannot import clips into an NLE without first using the included software – PowerCinema NE, PowerProducer 3 NE, and PowerDirector 5 NE Express – to create a unified MPEG-2 file. The import/conversion process is simple but time consuming. Sony’s method of creating simple, unified MPEG-2 files is much preferable.
The included software bundle is among the best provided by a manufacturer. Between the three programs, basic archiving and DVD authoring are within the scope of beginning users. PowerDirector allows for simple editing, including clip trimming, title creation, and soundtracks. Advanced editing will require a better NLE program.
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