JVC adds $500 flash-based HD camcorder
updated 11:15 am EST, Tue February 2, 2010
JVC Everio HM340 does 1080i, packs 16GB
JVC today used the post-CES cycle to add a new HD camcorder to its mix. The Everio GZ-HM340 is one of JVC's least expensive video cameras to shoot widescreen 1080i while still using more compact and shockproof flash memory instead of a hard drive. It brings 16GB of built-in flash memory and has an SDHC card slot to add as much as 32GB more; the included storage gives it room for about 1 hour 20 minutes of full bitrate AVCHD (H.264) footage.
The pseudo-budget camera inherits the same advanced image stabilization of more luxurious cameras like the GZ-HM1 and can correct for movement as unpredictable as walking, especially at 5X zoom or less. JVC's choice of lens zooms as far out as 20X. Most of the cost savings comes from a 1.37-megapixel sensor, but the new Everio still supports creating time lapse videos.
Shipments start later this month and will put the GZ-HM340 at a $500 price that competes favorably even against some standard definition camcorders.
