JVC Intros GY-HM750U ProHD Camcorder

JVC Professional Products Co., a division of JVC Americas Corp., today introduced the GY-HM750U ProHD compact shoulder-mount camcorder. Designed for ENG news, sports, documentaries, events and other location shoots, it offers, JVC says, “the industry’s fastest shoot-to-edit workflow by recording native HD or SD footage in ready-to-edit file formats on low-cost SDHC memory cards.”

Equipped with the same 3-CCD imaging system found in the GY-HM790U, JVC’s ProHD flagship camcorder, the GY-HM750U delivers 1920×1080 images in a small, lightweight form factor. It records at selectable data rates up to 35 Mbps and can record HD footage in 720p, 1080p and 1080i, as well as SD footage (480i).

Using JVC’s established native file-based workflow, the GY-HM750U includes a dual card slot design that records to non-proprietary SDHC cards and/or optional SxS recorder. A new feature, borne from numerous customer requests, allows simultaneous recording to both SDHC cards for instant backup or client copy.

JVC’s native file recording technology allows recording in ready-to-edit file formats for Apple Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere (.MOV), as well as other major NLE systems that are compatible with Sony XDCAM EX files (.MP4). For legacy SD applications, the camcorder can also record standard DV files (.AVI or .MOV).

“High definition has not yet been standardized in many markets, and a vital segment of broadcasters don’t have the infrastructure to deliver HD from the field,” said Craig Yanagi, national marketing and brand manager. “That’s why the new GY-HM750U offers the flexibility to record in 480i as well as a variety of HD formats. It can fulfill current SD needs while providing an seamless transition to HD in the future, all with the fastest and most efficient workflow available in the industry today.”

Building on the modular approach of the GY-HM790U, the GY-HM750U includes a 68-pin chassis connector that creates a direct interface with various modules — no external cables needed. The new KA-AS790 ASI output module, for example, provides a direct feed from the camera to a satellite uplink or microwave transmitter via BNC, which is ideal for broadcasters that want live HD video from the field. Not only can the camera be connected to the transmitter or uplink with a single BNC cable, thereby eliminating the need for additional “black box” interfaces, but the GY-HM750U automatically switches to low-latency mode (less than 300ms delay) when the module is in use.

JVC has also improved its Pre Rec (retro cache) feature, which continuously records and stores footage in cache memory and helps prevent missed shots of breaking events. The GY-HM750U stores 20 seconds of footage in its cache. Other features include variable frame rate recording, extensive image customization, a high resolution (1.22 million pixel) LCOS viewfinder and 4.3-inch flip-out LCD monitor, and JVC’s patented Focus Assist functionality. The GY-HM750U also features two XLR audio inputs with phantom power, plus manual audio level controls with audio meter.

The GY-HM750U is priced at $7,450, including a Canon 14:1 zoom lens, though it accommodates a variety of lenses with its 1/3-inch bayonet lens mount. JVC offers 10 lenses from Canon and Fujinon, as well as a broad line of studio and field accessories, that are compatible with the GY-HM750U. The camcorder will ship in February and be demonstrated at the 2011 NAB Show, April 11-14 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. (Booth C4314).

A LoLux version of the camera specially designed for ENG use, the GY-HM750LL, will also be available to direct broadcast customers next month. Developed to assist television journalists when external lighting cannot be used, JVC’s exclusive LoLux feature goes beyond the normal gain boost to produce broadcast acceptable imagery in extremely low-light environments.