Introduction
The first glimpse many people will have of this popular low-cost (and now discontinued) DV digital videocam from JVC will be in a store somewhere. If the unit is run without a tape installed, it automatically runs a demonstration mode sequence that shows off its digital effects and recording features. Although most videographers scoff at the effects built into these consumer-oriented cameras, there's no denying that, for those who just want to add a little spice to their video recordings, making it look like a flickering "classic film" in black and white or adding a fade or wipe effect can be fun.
We spent a few weeks testing the GR-DVL100 in a number of environments. We tested it outdoors, in nearly dark rooms. We ran down the batteries several times, shooting subjects both with and without the aid of its onboard light. We connected the camera to both PCs and Macs via its built-in IEEE 1394 (FireWire) connector, and toyed with its many digital effects. We even tried rephotographing a big-screen video presentation (with permission, of course) in a dark theatre. Overall, the camera worked well, although we did find a few weaknesses.
Here is a summary of the camera's pros and cons:
Pro: good low-light sensitivity. Good quality digital effects including 18 fades/wipes, 8 special effects modes, plus 5 "snapshot" (still image) recording modes. Easy-to-control manual exposure control wheel. Random Assemble Edit capabilities.
Con: Some motor noise can be heard when recordings are played back. No external mic jack. Some functions, such as Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) mode, are tucked away in hard-to-reach menus. Some functions available only with purchase of optional RM-V700U remote control.
In the box
The GR-DVL100 ships with an AC adapter/battery charger, battery pack, shoulder strap, lens cap, a basic remote control (with batteries), allowing you to start and stop recording or playback, or zoom in and out. It also includes an AV cable (mini-plug to 3 x RCA), JLIP editing cable and a DC cord. The camera cannot charge the battery at the same time the AC adapter is being used to power the camera.
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