JVC GR-SXM330U Super VHS Palm Sized Camcorder with LCD Monitor

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Manufacturer: JVC
Price at amazon.com: Used from $170.00

List price $549.99



Product Features:

• SVHS-C camcorder, compatible with VHS-C
• 16x optical, 400x digital zoom with digital image stabilization
• 2.5-inch color LCD monitor and black & white EVF
• Video light for nighttime shooting
• Includes battery pack, Compact VHS playpak for use in a VCR, AC adapter/charger, shoulder strap, remote control

Product Description:

Description from Manufacturer:With the GR-SXM330U, JVC has crafted a lightweight, feature-packed camcorder that's as well suited for business projects as it is for home movies. Though it records on standard VHS-C tapes (and includes an adapter cassette for playing them on standard VCRs), the GR-SXM330U also supports the use of S-VHS-C tapes, which promise sharper images. Alternately, you can activate the camcorder's S-VHS ET mode to achieve a similar image-quality increase on ordinary VHS-C tapes.

Thanks to its sharp, pivoting, 2.5-inch color LCD, the camcorder lets you shoot effectively from many angles (including below, above, and in front of the lens). The 16x optical zoom lens is augmented (at the expense of image quality) by a 400x digital zoom.

You probably won't need the manual to start shooting with the GR-SXM330U, but it will come in handy when you're ready to tap into the camera's vast array of advanced features. While the clearly labeled buttons and clever menu-wheel control make for easy navigation of settings and menus, it can be difficult to remember what buttons lead to which settings.

For the artistic moviemaker, the GR-SXM330U offers a handful of whiz-bang "digifects." You can give your shots the look of an old movie (black-and-white with a slight strobe effect), add a sepia filter, reverse or stretch the image, and more. You can also choose from a variety of fade/wipe transitions, and superimpose one of eight preset titles (such as "Happy Birthday" and "Our New Baby"). The camcorder even has a high-speed shutter mode for capturing sports and other fast-moving events, and a digital image stabilizer for shaky situations.

The GR-SXM330U performs equally well under indoor and outdoor lighting. In low-light situations, you can switch on the camcorder's built-in light or use Night Alive--a digital enhancement that promises to make dark subjects brighter. It works, but the camera then becomes difficult to focus, and images take on a strobe effect.

The included clip-on battery is good for over an hour of recording between charges, though it can be charged only when attached to the camera. Our only physical problem with the GR-SXM330U was that sometimes the cassette door wouldn't close properly, requiring a little extra shove to snap it shut.

Compact and hardily constructed, the JVC GR-SXM330U combines the convenience of VHS compatibility with a host of highly desirable features. It's a splendid choice for capturing your family history. --Rick Broida

Pros:

• Offers higher-resolution recording on normal VHS-C tapes
• Endless assortment of special effects and picture controls
• Built-in light
• Wireless remote for playback
• Control wheel provides easy navigation of onscreen menus

Cons:

• No standalone battery charger
• Cassette door can be hard to close
• Mono audio output for dubbing

Average Customer Rating:

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Comment: Had for Many Years and Still Love It Rating:
I bought mine at another store several years ago. I have only recently had any problems with it and that is the batteries. They do not charge anymore because of age and use, but other than that, this camera has not had any problems. I have never had trouble with the door. I love the effects. As soon as I can find a replacement battery, I will be back to videoing. I have taped a moving train, cats runing around and even a funeral on this baby. It is a great camera for as old as it is.

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Comment: product nogood cant find anyone to return it to Rating:
i have recieved my camera it does not work at all they stated that it was still wrapped in its plastic and even though it was it had been used enough to have the paint on the buttons wore off the battery is so used up it will not take a charge or the recharger does not work and the adapter does not work`this camera is junk and now i cannot get ahold of anybody to return it to!!!!!

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Comment: Only good for awhile Rating:
Took nice pictures and I was very happy with it until the cassette door started to not work properly and other things started acting up. It is now 14 months old and off warranty and needs to have the cassette housing assembly replaced at a price not worth considering. We were told this was not caused by neglect or improper usage.

Posted at October 11, 2003 04:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)