JVC GZ-HM1 SSD Everio 64GB Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder, 200x Digital Zoom, 10.62MP Back-Illuminated CMOS Sensor - Titanium Silver

2010-12-22T19:00:00

Has about the same video quality as the Canon HV20 (my other camcorder). Note that the JVC GZ-HM1 is best used in full auto. But a manual/custom white balance can not be set when in auto mode. In manual mode, autofocus is disabled other than for face tracking, although it seems to focus on most objects other than faces. There is no shutter priority or aperture priorty; in manual mode, you have to set both and know what you're doing. I confirmed these issues with JVC. Not sure why they don't allow custom WB in auto mode, but setting a custom WB should always be allowed on any camera in any mode. Otherwise, it works well, it has a very solid build, much better than my Canon HV20 and the videos are smooth, although slightly soft with neutral color tones. I bought the JVC wide angle lens also, which adds quite a bit of weight to the front and only opens it up to about 32-35mm width from 40mm standard. The standard battery doesn't last long so you may want to order the high capacity battery also. Also, be sure to open the .pdf owner's manual on the CD-ROM that comes with the camera, it has the advanced owner's guide, which for some reason they don't print in hard copy.

Toro