JVC releases new z1 camera.

January 14, 2009 – Amidst the buzz over consumer products at this year's CES, JVC slipped two professional camcorders under the radar: the GY-HM100 and GY-HM700. These two new models are the first in the industry to capture natively in the QuickTime file format. They also continue JVC's push to move professional videography away from MiniDV recording—the HM100 and HM700 both record to dual SDHC memory card slots. The camcorders will be available this spring for a price to be determined.

The two most significant features of the new pro lineup are not surprising additions. The GY-HM100 and GY-HM700 will record exclusively to solid state; the camcorders feature dual SDHC memory card slots and continuous recording from one slot to the next. Last year's GY-HD200 records to either built-in hard disc drive or SxS memory cards. Although the IEEE 1394 file format is supported by major editing programs, many professionals will prefer JVC's new move toward native QuickTime support. This will enable users to drag files directly from the SDHC card into the editor's timeline inside Apple's Final Cut Pro.

JVC has also developed a proprietary codec that can encode full 1920 x 1080 video at a compression of up to 35mbps. The company draws on its experience in developing for broadcast applications and claims that this MPEG-2 long GOP encoding is currently supported by all popular editing systems. Both camcorders can also record 720p (19/35Mbps) and 1080i (25Mbps) in SP mode to maintain compatability with popular NLE systems.

Other features of the GY-HM100 will include a compact three-pound form factor, three 1/4-inch CCD sensors, a Fujinon 10x optical zoom lens, JVC's newly redesigned optical image stabilization technology, and two-channel balanced audio inputs with a mic/line switchable with built-in phantom power supply. Fewer details are available regarding the GY-HM700, but it is expected to ship with a larger form factor (approx. 8.9lbs.), three 1/3-inch CCD sensors, an interchangeable lens system (shipping with a 14x optical zoom Canon), and the ability to record to an optional SxS memory card recorder.

The GY-HM700 is scheduled for release in March 2009, with more details expected next month. The GY-HM100 will be available in April 2009, with an expected retail price of under $4,000.