February 12, 2009 Times are changing fast in the video industry! JVC's latest shoulder-supported pro camcorder, the GY-HM700, is the first to store files on inexpensive SDHC memory cards. Developed for mainstream production, electronic newsgathering and cinematography, the GY-HM700 records in the QuickTime (.MOV) format, the native format for Apple's Final Cut Pro™ editing system. This eliminates the time-consuming transfer step and dramatically speeds up post-production workflow. SDHC media is also the first practical solid state solution to physical archive and thanks to ever-decreasing prices, the per-minute cost of SDHC memory is now comparable to video tape.
The GY-HM700 natively records the QuickTime file format used by Apple for Final Cut Pro. There is no need to convert or rewrap files prior to editing. Post-production can begin immediately after shooting. It is even possible to edit directly from the memory card. Since no transfer or re-encoding takes place, first generation quality is always maintained.
The GY-HM700 provides 2 memory card slots, for a total of up to 64GB of on-board storage—enough for more than 6 hours of continuous HD recording. The camera automatically begins recording on the second card when the first card fills up. When the second card fills up, the camera reverts to recording to the first card slot, allowing for virtually unlimited recording lengths.
SDHC cards are economical, highly reliable, and make possible a recording system that consumes up to 20% less power than tape or HDD based systems. The per-minute cost of SDHC memory is comparable to video tape. Moreover, SDHC media is the first practical solid state solution to physical archive. SDHC cards are economical, highly reliable, and make possible a recording system that consumes up to 20% less power than tape or HDD based systems.
By attaching the optional KA-MR100 dockable media recorder, it is possible to record Sony XDCAM EX compatible .MP4 files onto high-speed SxS memory cards, while at the same time recording the same .MP4 files to inexpensive SDHC cards. Having two copies instantaneously available provides more versatility in the field with the assurance of always having a back-up.
High Resolution Progressive Imaging
The GY-HM700 utilizes three precisely aligned 1/3-inch progressive scan full HD CCDs. JVC engineers developed a unique 1/3-inch optical block with Diagonal Offset and a patented exclusive Adaptive Pixel Correlation Technique that produces resolution significantly higher than previous JVC models and comparable to cameras with larger image sensors.
The higher resolution imaging is complemented with a new standard detachable HD lens by Canon, the KT14x4.4KRSJ. Its superior MTF provides higher resolution than typical "stock" lenses and is ideal for full 1920 x 1080 imaging. The GY-HM700's standard bayonet mount accepts a wide range of optional lenses available from JVC. Cinematographers will also appreciate JVC's optional prime lens adapter. The GY-HM700 can flip the image commonly inverted when prime lenses are used.
JVC's proprietary MPEG2 encoder provides highly efficient compression at bit rates up to 35Mbps. The GY-HM700 supports all major HD signal formats including 1920 x 1080, 1440 x 1080 and 1280 x 720.
New high resolution LCOS viewfinder
The GY-HM700 is equipped with a new, rugged high resolution viewfinder based on a new .45-inch 1.22 million pixel Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS) panel (852 x 480 x 3). This new all-digital viewfinder displays images with more than 5 times the resolution of typical color viewfinders. Its sturdy reinforced die-cast aluminum chassis and LED light source ensure years of trouble-free operation.
Also provided is a new jumbo size 4.3-inch flip-out LCD monitor that functions for recording, playback, clip management, and menu operation. Menu operation is intuitive with a single disk, outlined by an LED lamp.
Weighing in at a mere 8 lbs. including lens, viewfinder, microphone and battery, the GY-HM700 can rest comfortably on the right shoulder to provide stable, steady shots, without causing the fatigue associated with bulkier cameras.
The GY-HM700 records two channels of uncompressed LPCM 16 bit audio at 48Khz. Levels can be controlled manually, or automatically using AGC, and an audio meter is provided in the LCD and viewfinder displays for easy adjustment. Balanced XLR inputs with phantom power are provided on the camera for an external microphone and/or wireless receiver, and a shotgun microphone is provided.
Built-in clip view and management functions, a spot exposure meter, and JVC's patented Focus Assist round out the GY-HM700's many on-board features. The camera provides HD/SD SDI, Component, Composite and simultaneous DV/HDV IEEE-1394 outputs. Optional JVC remote control units can be connected to the GY-HM700's 6-pin remote connector.
For more information and high-resolution photos of JVC's GY-HM700, visit JVC's website.
