Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I'm generally pleased with the GR-DX77, the video quality is good, it is compact, and I like the layout of the controls at the back of the camcorder. However, there are a couple of things to be aware of when deciding to purchase.
First, a little more on what I like about the camera. Since I'm upgrading from an older JVC model, I like that the menuing system is very similar to my old camcorder. I don't have to learn a new menu. I also like the joystick like thumb controller on the back of the camera for manual control. Once you get used to it, sort of like a game controller, you can quickly set focus, turn off and on the LCD video light, turn on the backlight control, and set the spot metering to one of three areas shown on the viewfinder. My hands are about as wide as the camera and this camcorder fits me quite well.
Video color quality seems quite good to me, and low light video quality is much better than my older GR-DV505. I also haven't noticed any tape motor or zoom noise on recorded video. The sound quality doesn't seem quite as good as my old camcorder, but is certainly acceptable. There is an accessory mic port for better quality sound if needed.
My computer instantly recognized my camera when plugged in through my firewire port, and had no problem controlling the camera and downloading video with my editing software (Pinnacle Studio 9). I haven't tried the USB connection, so no comment.
Now for the buts. First, there is no neckstrap included with the camera. If you like carrying a camera around out of its bag and around your neck, you will need to buy an accessory strap. This will have to share a strap bracket with the hand strap, and there isn't much room to attach. For gals, they can put the camera in their purse, but most guys won't have this option, and the camera is just a little too wide to fit comfortably in your pocket. Kind of defeats the purpose of being compact, when you can't put it around your neck in between shots.
Second, if the palm of your hand is wider than the camera, about 4 inches, you might have trouble handling this camera as your pinky finger might have a tendency to slip in front of the lens, and you might struggle with your thumb conveniently finding the controls in back. For me it is just fine, but I can see where bigger hands could have trouble.
While there is an auxiliary mic input jack, there is no headphone jack which is common on other camcorders. However, if you buy the right adapters (RCA to 3.5 mini) you can plug a headphone into the supplied A/V cable. The A/V cable is a bit bulky, with several different connections, so this is not as convenient as it could be with a dedicated headphone jack.
If you plan on carrying more than one battery around, this camera doesn't come with a separate charger, it is built into the camera. I find it more convenient to charge off camera than on, so I bought a separate battery charger.
All things considered, I am pleased with my decision to buy this camera, it will work just fine for my kind of use, mostly recording memorable personal and family events. Though seemingly small, I was a bit irked that a neckstrap was not included. For more a more technical review of this model or any camcorder, you might want to check www.camcorderinfo.com.
Click Here to see more reviews about: JVC GRDX77 MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom
JVC GRDX77 MiniDV Digital Camcorder with2.5In LCD
Click here for more information about JVC GRDX77 MiniDV Digital Camcorder w/12x Optical Zoom
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