JVC brings 1080p-output camcorders to US

After an initial release in Japan, JVC this afternoon wasted little time in bringing its two new Everio HD cameras to North America. The HD5 and HD6 (HD6 shown) are not only much smaller than the HD7 they replace -- now 45 percent smaller, according to JVC -- but are also the first to output a full-speed, 60 frames per second 1080p image when attached to a TV. An HDMI 1.3 connector provides x.v.Color support for extra color depth for HDTVs that support the feature. Shots are saved to disk at 1080i.

Like the Japanese editions, the HD5 and HD6 are primarily differentiated by storage, with the 60GB HD5 holding up to 12 hours of standard-ratio (1440x1080) HD video while the 120GB HD6 doubles that amount. The HD6 also adds a lens hood and a headphone jack for private listening while reviewing shots. JVC equips both of the cameras with a 10X zoom, image-stabilized lens and software both for full editing on Windows PCs and plug-ins for Apple's iMovie and Final Cut software. The Everios are due in March at prices of $1,200 for the HD5 and $1,400 for the HD6.