toys

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dv camera

While visiting New York recently, I got a PAL JVC GR-DV1 for around $1500. These cameras use a new format, called DV (Digital Video) which is the cleanest thing next to Beta SP.

The product styling is great. While an unusual look for a video camera, it seems to hit some sweet spots in historical camera design. The way the viewfinder is in line with the lens makes it feel like an old rangefinder point 'n' snap 35mm camera. The shape of it reminds me of a closed Polaroid SX-70: undoubtedly the coolest camera of all time. All the little flaps, covers and sliders make it feel simultaneously simple and complex; just the thing for a hardcore techno-fetishist.

Somehow they've shoehorned a full load of scary digital tricks into this wee box. Heaps of cheezy effects and transitions, full Random Assemble editing (with the bundled docking station), digital zoom during playback...

I love almost everything about this video camera, but there are some worries. The viewfinder is not as flexible as a rotating LCD panel (but that would kill the size). The record time is only 30min on one Li-Ion battery. The ergonomics of the controls are a little weak. No digital output. No line input.

Could'a been worse. Already, they're bulking these cameras up in features and size. A shame. This does (almost) everything I want from a video camera, and the size allows it to be a constant companion.

Related links:
JVC Cybercam Page

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