By Matthew Henry
SYDNEY: JVC Australia today launched the first high definition version of its popular Everio hard disk camcorder range, which is also the world’s first consumer camcorder to record in full HD 1920 by 1080i resolution.
The new Everio GZ-HD7 was previewed for retailers in March and goes on sale today for RRP $2,749.
With its built-in 60GB hard disk drive, the HD7 will record up to five hours of full HD 1920 by 1080i resolution video at 30Mbps. JVC expects the HD7 will be a compelling offering for the growing number of consumers upgrading to full HD LCD and plasma TVs.
“There are other HD camcorders on the market but they record in 1440 by 1080 lines. This is true HD with 1920 by 1080 lines, which is actually what a full HD flat panel TV can display – it has the exact same resolution as the screen,” said JVC brand manager, Susan Rogic.
JVC has chosen not to follow Sony and Panasonic in adopting the new high definition AVCHD video format for its HD camcorders, which is based on mpeg4 encoding technology and can record to a variety of media types including HDD, DVD and flash memory cards.
“The GZ-HD7 records in mpeg2, which is a first for high definition camcorders. This format allows for a higher transfer rate of up to 30Mbps, less compression and higher picture quality,” said Rogic.
As the flagship in JVC’s Everio range, the HD7 comes with a premium feature set including a Fujinon lens, 3CCD imaging system, full manual control, optical image stabilisation and bundled editing and archiving software.
Rogic believes the HD7 has won the support of retailers after the company received positive feedback at its trade launch event.
“We had our retailer launch in March, so they are well aware of it. The retailers have really embraced the product and we have been impressed with how it has been accepted,” said Rogic.
JVC has also announced that the HD7 has received a TIPA award (Technical Image Press Association – European Photo and Imaging Awards) in the category of Best Expert Camcorder 2007.
“With the full spec of full HD resolution, 3CDDs and a Fujinon lens, this is the ultimate in camcorder technology today. It’s fantastic to have an Everio receive such recognition and win this award two years running,” said Rogic.