JVC's 2009 Everio camcorder lineup

S-Series

Let's start with the S-series, because the word "start" begins with S. There's only one new model here, the GZ-MS120. As previously mentioned, it's got dual SD card slots and you can record continuously, so that if you run out of space on one it'll automatically swap to the other. In highest quality mode, you'll get 3.7 hours of recording from a pair of 8GB SD cards. In lowest quality, you'll get about 20 hours.

G-Series
Next up, the G-series. The press release claims there's four models in the range, but only lists three, so here's the product names I've got: GZ-MG630, GZ-MG645 and GZ-MG680. Three of the mystery four pack a 1/6-inch 800,000-pixel CCD sensor, with the fourth boasting a 1/6-inch 1.07-megapixel CCD sensor.

They've all got Konica Minolta lenses, with 35x optical zoom on three models and 38x dynamic zoom on the other. All models have 800x digital zoom, but as I'm sure you're aware, digital zoom is a useless pile of crap.

The two top-end models - the GZ-MG680 and GZ-MG645 - will upscale their output to 1080p and have a mini-HDMI output for televisions. Disk capacity on the GZ-MG630 and GZ-MG645 is 60GB, plus an SD card. The GZ-MG680 carries twice that at 120GB, again plus an SD card.

HD Range
Which just leaves the HD range, comprised of a more definite three models. All of em have a 1/4.1-inch 3.05 megapixel CMOS sensor, and record and playback in full 1080p. JVC boasts that its cameras can replicate 100% of the colours that the human eye can see using its xvYCC standard, compared to 55% with the more common sRGB standard.

The HD range all feature a newly-designed lens that goes up to 20x zoom - well above standard for HD camcorders. For stalking purposes, they've all got face detection tech, and will adjust the focus and exposure to capture your beautiful target's face in all its radiant glory.

The models available are the GZ-HM200, which has no internal storage - just dual SD card slots, the GZ-HD300 with a 60GB hard drive and SD card slot, and the GZ-HD320 with 120GB of storage and an SD card slot.

Conclusions
All will be out within the next couple of months, but there's no pricing info yet. Any of those float your boat? I've never personally owned an Everio camcorder, but if you have, what are your experiences? Share away in the comments.

From TechDigest

Deal: Flip Ultra Series F260 Camcorder for $80

Woot has a deal for today: the Flip Ultra Series F260 (not HD). Check it out at woot.com

Features:

• 2GB flash based camcorder can record up to 60 minutes of video, with out the need for tapes, or SD cards
• Built-in USB arm, acts like a typical USB flash drive, drag and drop
• Simple camorder, shooting video is as easy as taking a picture
• FlipShare built in software that makes it easy to organize, edit and share your videos on YouTube, MySpace, AOL Video, or any other online video service
• Capable of playing back on a TV with the help from a composite cable
• Tripod mount, use any standard tripod for steady video

Specifications:

• LCD Screen: 1.5” (diagonal) Transflective TFT (for bright daylight)
• Video Resolution: 648×480
• Video Sensor: 1/4” VGA CMOS sensor Large 5.6 µm pixels
• Light Sensitivity: Very high sensitivity (>2.0V/lux-sec) with automatic low light detection
• Video Compression: Pure Digital Video Engine 2.0
• Video Frame Rate: 30 frames per second (constant frame rate, progressive scan)
• Average Bitrate: 4.0Mbps (auto-adaptive algorithm)
• Video Format: Advanced Profile MPEG-4 AVI
• White Balance & Exposure: Auto-adaptive white/black balance and exposure
• Optical Lens Type: Fixed Focus (0.8m to infinity)
• Aperture: f/2.4 (fast lens for great results in low-light environments)
• Zoom: Smooth multi-step 2x digital
• Battery Type: 2 AA Batteries (1.5 Volt AA Alkaline, Energizer® e2® Lithium, or 1.2 Volt NiMH rechargeable)
• Battery Life: AA Alkaline – Up to 2 hrs of use, Energizer® e2® Lithium – Up to 5 hrs of use (Battery life may vary depending on batteries and use pattern)
• Camcorder Interface: Easy-press buttons
• Power-up Time: 4 to 7 seconds depending on the amount of recorded content
• Power Saver (Auto Shut-Down): Yes
• Play All Function: Yes
• Pause, FF/Rewind: No
• Set Date/Time: Yes
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 4.17” x 2.16” x 1.25”
• Weight: 5.2oz
• PC Connection: Built-in flip-out USB arm (up to USB 2.0 speed)
• Speaker: Built-in
• Microphone: Built-in, Wide-range
• Tripod Mount: Yes
• Online Sharing: Unlimited private video emails or video greeting cards. Direct Upload to MySpace, YouTube, or AOL
• Video Editing: Video trim – set start and end points. Create movies with multiple video clips – add titles, music and credits
• Still Photo: Snap still photos from video
• Software Update: Automatic and on-demand online updates

Minimum System Requirements for Windows:

• Intel Pentium 4 2.0 GHz
• Windows XP SP2 512MB of RAM
• Vista with 2GB of RAM
• USB port

Minimum System Requirements for Macintosh:

• Power PC G4 1.0 GHz or Intel Core
• 512MB of RAM
• OS X Tiger 10.4 or Leopard 10.5
• USB port

In the box:

• Flip Ultra Video Camcorder
• Soft Case
• TV Cable
• Wrist Strap
• Quickstart Guide
• 2 AA Alkaline Batteries

CNET's tips: where to upload your HD footage

CNET WebWare has a new article as an update of their last year video site comparison service.

The sites compared are YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, DailyMotion, SmugMug and Blip.tv.

From the article:

For our tests, we looked at detail on two levels--both still and in motion. For the still, we used a shot of our corner Italian restaurant. From our test footage you should be able to read everything on the front awning.

For the motion element, there were plenty of cars and pedestrians outside our offices that would have made good test subjects. In this case, we went with a bicycle since it falls somewhere in between the two.

Read the article here.

User-generated Frenzy is Fueling Growth at Flip Camcorder Manufacturer

Via CNN (CNN Money):

One man recently sent footage shot from the front of his dog sled in Alaska. Another shared video of his Lasik eye-surgery. The lead singer of a band recorded his view while crowd surfing. A congressman gave constituents a tour of his D.C. office.

Thanks to such user-generated content, upstart Pure Digital is holding its own in the competitive consumer-electronics world, which is dominated by big conglomerates such as Sony, Panasonic and Samsung.

Since launching the Flip in May 2007, the company has shipped nearly two million devices. Models range from $149 to $230 and are sold online and at retailers like Wal-Mart, Costco and Target.

Pure Digital's edge: It is transforming the camcorder market by making it simple to shoot and share video. "The ease of use is incredibly seductive," says Amazon.com vice-president of electronics, Paul Ryder. "You take a quick video, plug the device into computer, and immediately upload to the web."

Read the full article here.

Sony Webbie MHS-CM1 HD camcorder Reviewed by

Michael Smith at michaelsmith.tv has poted a review of the new Sony Webbie $200 HD camcorder from the Webbie series. Here is part of the review, head over to his site for the full text.

Pros:

• It’s very easy to use. There’s not many options so nothing to mess up. I feel like I could give this camera to my 3 year old and she’d be able to use it.
• It turns on when you open the LCD panel, turns off when you close it. Again, this makes it easy to use. When you need to get a quick shot it’s ready to go. Just open the LCD and hit record.
• The camera shoots video in 1080P, 720P and VGA 30P, and photos in 5M, 3:2, 3M, 2M, and VGA. I recommend leaving it in the factory setting of 720P and 5M.
• The light is handy and while not very bright does come in useful in some situations.
• Normal USB port! Thanks for that!
• Very compatible MP4 files. You can shoot and upload the clip directly to YouTube and it will stay HD on the web.
• Reasonable 5 megapixel resolution.

Cons:

• No integrated lens cover. The plastic one will get lost.
• All the auto settings are in constant flux - iris, color and zoom never seem to settle.
• 1080P has major auto focus problems
• No flash on the still photos. The light helps but not for still photos.
• Bad position of the Movie record button.

Buy a Sony Webbie MHS-CM1 HD camcorder at Amazon to support this site ;)

Toshiba Camileo H20 and P30 HD camcorders announced

Both shoot 1080p footage to SD card, have 5x optical zoom and HDMI connections for putting your 'director's cut' up on your TV. On the looks front, each has a red Camileo tag on the screen edge, and is clothed in a Midnight Blue gloss finish. Classy.

There's also a new Night Mode for better results when the sun goes down - perfect for the party animal.

The H20 has a 3in LCD screen and a barrel-shaped form, while the slightly cheaper P30 has a 2.5in screen and a quick-draw pistol grip shape.

Via stuff.tv

Samsung HMX-H105 Reviewed by CamcorderInfo

Samsung's HMX-H105 FullHD 1080p camcorder got reviewed by Kaitlyn Chantry at camcorderinfo.com, see more after the jump.


Samsung's entire H-series lineup features the same 1/4.5-inch CMOS sensor and 10x optical zoom Schneider Kreuznach Verioplan HD lens. The sensor is larger than the ones used on Samsung's standard definition lineup, but not as large as the one in last year's SC-HMX20 and the upcoming HMX-R10. It's also a lower resolution that the other high definition sensors Samsung uses.

What makes Samsung's new H-series interesting is the 16GB-64GB SSD; the thought of 64GB of internal solid state memory is exciting for geeks of the camcorder world. But just about everything else in the H105's design we'll have to approach with a wait-and-see outlook. We were impressed by last year's high definition model from Samsung (the SC-HMX20), but the H105 has a completely different sensor and lens. There's a possibility that this will have a negative impact on performance.

The Samsung HMX-H105 model camcorder was debuted on January 5 2009 as a higher-end extension to its full-HD digital camcorder family. The new H-series HD camcorders are quoted to offer first and foremost full-HD quality video, high-performance, a sleek and stylish body design, a high-quality HD image lens with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) support and internal/integrated solid state drives for memory storage. The HMX-H105 is one step down from the premier model in the H-series of camcorders; it will offer a cheaper source for full HD quality video with an internal hard drive. The HMX-H105 will feature an integrated 32GB internal storage drive and also supports the use of an SD/SDHC memory card for video storage as well. Video will be compressed in the H.264 video format meaning users will be able to record up to six hours of video on the 32GB drive and up to three hours of additional HD video on a 16GB SDHC card. Each unit in the H-series includes a Schneider Kreuznach Varioplan HD lens equipped with Optical Image Stabilization support to ensure the video remains smooth and free of the normal shaking patterns caused by human hands. The lens also provides a 10x optical zoom and a 37mm wide angle focal length; most average camcorders on the market offer in the range of 40-50mm. The HMX-105 H-series camcorder will also include additional features such as an HDMI output for full HD support and viewing on an HDTV, a swiveling 2.7" TFT LCD screen and an HD time lapse recording mode which allows users to pre-select a certain period of time for recording.

RC Mini Melicopter for Those Awesome Aerial Shots: Draganflyer X6

Being able to carry an ultrazoom camera, HD camcorder, Infrared camera or low light camera, the Draganflyer X6 is a cool gadget you would love to play with. It's self-stabilized, battery-operated, foldable, remote controlled and can hold its position with the built in GPS sensor.


The Draganflyer X6 is a remotely operated, unmanned, miniature helicopter designed to carry wireless video cameras and still cameras. Operate the Draganflyer X6 helicopter with the easy to use handheld controller while viewing what the helicopter sees through video glasses. The Draganflyer X6 helicopter uses a unique 6-rotor design refined from an original concept that has been under development since early 2006.

The Draganflyer X6 helicopter uses SteadyFlight™ technology to achieve its incredible stability. This system consists of an onboard processor running thousands of lines of code and receiving data from eleven on-board sensors (three gyros, three accelerometers, three magnetometers, one barometric pressure sensor, and one GPS receiver). The SteadyFlight™ system combines real-time data from all eleven sensors to make the Draganflyer X6 helicopter more stable than any other helicopter in its class. Have complete confidence knowing that SteadyFlight™ technology is helping you fly like a pro even though you may have little or no flight experience.

Photo Credit: Ben F., Location: Arizona, USA., Camera: Panasonic LX3 Digital Still Camera

Photo and video application examples:

• Wildlife photography
• Commercial promotions
• News media
• Aerial photo hobbyists
• Real estate applications (golf courses, parks, large property assessment, recreation facilities, etc)

Check out the HD Camcorder mount details here and the full Draganflyer X6 product page here.

Also make sure you check out the sample video and photo galleries.

Via http://www.draganfly.com

Sony carries over camcorders from last year

Sony's three high definition camcorders (the HDR-CX12, HDR-TG1, and HDR-HC9) and one standard definition camcorder (the DCR-HC52) will continue to be sold through 2009.

The HDR-CX12 and HDR-TG1 were two popular models for Sony in 2008, both combining the convenience of solid state memory with the performance of high definition video. These two MemoryStick camcorders will be joined in 2009 by the HDR-CX100, a new high definition model with embedded flash memory.

The other two models being carried over into the new year are two of Sony's MiniDV camcorders. The HDR-HC9 (high definition) and DCR-HC52 (standard definition) will be the only MiniDV camcorders from Sony in 2009. The shrinking market for tape-based camcorders likely motivated the company's decisions to discontinue all but two models and to carry over the 2008 camcorders rather than update to new products.

Via camcorderinfo

Samsung WB500 (USA : HZ10W) mega-zoom still camera captures 720p video

As a side note to flash, tape, HDD and SSD-based camcorders, here is a mega-zoom compact-style photo camera that is capable of shooting video at 720p resolution at 30 frames per second. The Samsung Samsung WB500 (USA : HZ10W). Here are the video-related capabilities of this camera.

Clip	Recording	Size : 1280x720(30fps & 15fps) High Quality, 1280x720(30fps & 15fps) Standard Quality, 640x480(30fps & 15fps) , 320x240 (60fps & 30fps & 15fps) Optical Zoom : 1280X720 HQ & SQ - 10X Optical Zoom(24.0 ~ 240 mm) with sound recording 640X480, 320X240 : 6.7X Optical Zoom(36.0 ~ 240 mm) with sound recording Max Recording time : 29min
	Effect	Color : Normal, BW, Sepia, Red, Green, Blue, Negative Photo Style Selector : Normal, Soft, Vivid, Forest, Retro, Cool, Calm, Classic
	Edit	Pause during recording, Still Image Capture, Time Trimming

The WB500 (USA : HZ10W) gives shooters the ability to capture video in 720p high-definition at 30 frames-per-second (fps). Thanks to H.264 compression, users can record video for longer periods of time, allowing them to better utilize the remaining memory capacity on their SD or SDHC memory card. Shooters can utilize Optical Image Stabilization and the camera’s 10x optical zoom while recording video, as well as Samsung’s Successive Recording mode, which allows the user to pause and then resume filming without having to save the clips as individual files.
The camera is available in black or silver, with silver trim, measures 4.13”W x 2.4”H x 1.4” D, and features a large 2.7 inch (230K pixels) LCD screen.
Check out the Samsung WB500/HZ10W product page or buy Samsung HZ10W 10MP Digital Camera with 10x Schneider Wide Angle Dual Image Stabilized Zoom and 2.7 inch LCD (Grey).

Via Samsung USA press release.

Sanyo Xacti Compact HD DMX-CG10 camcorder unveiled

Sanyo recently rolled out a new range of Xacti cameras. Besides the full HD cameras and dual waterproof cameras, the line-up also included a new stylish and compact HD camera called the Xacti Compact DMX-CG10. As the name suggests, the camcorder is a compact device and can easily snuggle into a user’s pocket thanks to its small form factor.

With a distinct ability to capture full HD videos, the DMX-CG10 camcorder can also take still photos of great quality. Having a vertical design, the camcorder is a compact HD camera that boasts of being among the few camcorders to capture HD Movies. The camera sports a 3 inch wide TFT LCD display with 230,000 pixel support, 10 megapixel resolution with CMOS sensor and a 5X optical zoom.

Via techshout.com

Canon HF11

If you are on the lookout for a HD camcorder that is small and lightweight, the Canon HF11 may tickle your fancy.

It is an AVCHD format camcorder with Canon's True Full HD CMOS Sensor that records at 1,920 x 1,080 and up to a bit rate of 24Mbps.

Features are quite standard for a Canon mid-range camcorder. There is a DV II Imaging Processor, 12x optical zoom, an optical image stabiliser, a 2.7-inch widescreen LCD and manual exposure controls like shutter and aperture priority modes.

The built-in 32GB nets you about four hours at 17Mbps. At 24Mbps, this drops to about three hours. If this is not enough for you, simply add an SD/SDHC card to bump up its memory.

The Canon HF11 is not cheap but it is a worthwhile investment if you want a good quality HD camcorder that is lightweight.

Via AsiaOne

Hitachi DZ-BD10HA Hybrid Camcorder

Available for $1099 here, the Hitachi DZ-BD10HA will let you record full HD content to either a Blu-ray Disc, the built-in 30GB hard drive or an SDHC card, which it will also accept. It offers face detection, optical image stabilization, one touch dubbing and a 7 Megapixel CMOS image sensor.

Capture your memories with the revolutionary new Three Format Hybrid Blu-ray Disc Camcorder, another first from Hitachi. Record rich and vibrant video and still images in FullHD (1920x1080) directly onto Blu-ray disc, or up to 8 hours and 40 minutes onto the built-in 30 GB hard-drive. And for further flexibility, the built-in SDHC card slot allows for added recording time and storage.

The Hitachi DZ-BD10HA is equipped with editing tools that include split, splice, delete and merge. An editing feature that is especially handy is the ability to create transitions within the camcorder on the hard drive before dubbing. There's no need to worry about the grandma who refuses to give up her DVD player. With a touch of a button, you can also transfer videos recorded in Blu-ray to standard definition DVD format. With the 10x optical zoom, you can catch little Johnny in the outfield making that spectacular catch. After the big game, use the still image recording feature to take a shot of the entire team at 6.22 megapixels. It is also possible to choose any frame from a movie and create a still photo. [Via inventhelp]

Via Hitachi

Sanyo's 1080P Camcorders: VPC-FH1, VPC-HD2000

The VPC-FH1 and the VPC-HD2000, the first consumer camcorders to record natively in 1080P (1920 x 1080 at 60 progressive frames/sec). Nearly identical camcorders in two different body shapes, they bring a number of new features to the Sanyo line, including high-speed recording, face detection, and HDMI output.

The VPC-HD2000 is an upright, "pistol-grip" design, replacing the VPC-HD1010. By contrast, the VPC-FH1 has a traditional, horizontal design. In interview, Sanyo stated that this was an attempt to increase its popularity in the U.S, where upright camcorders have had a hard time finding acceptance in the higher-end range.

Both camcorders feature an 8-megapixel CMOS sensor, recording 1080P/60fps, 1080i/60fps, and 1080P/30fps. Still photos can be recorded in native 8-megapixel or interpolated 12-megapixel.

Via camcorderinfo.com

Flip Mino HD review roundup

It's "skinnable", it does widescreen 720p HD, fits in your shirt pocket and it easily uploads vids to Youtube. What is it? It's the Flip Mino HD from Pure Digital Technologies.

From the product page, here is the list of specs and features:

Features:

Simple to Shoot in HD

• The world’s smallest HD camcorder, weighing only 3.3 ounces
• Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your computer to launch built-in FlipShare™ software
• Built-in memory for up to 60 minutes of high-quality video
• Rechargeable lithium ion battery— charges via your USB port. Approximately 2 hours of recording per charge.
• Start recording within 3 seconds of power-up
• Advanced playback, pause, fast forward/rewind features
• Records high-quality H.264 videos that work with iTunes, iMovie, and iPhoto
• "Child Safe" mode to prevent accidental deletions of clips
• Fast lens – great low or bright light results, 2x digital zoom
• 1.5” color high-brightness (transflective) display for easy recording and super-clear viewing in bright sunlight
• Silent mode for recording in sensitive situations
• TV connector cable included to watch videos on television
• Tripod mount fits any standard tripod
• Video: 16:9 widescreen, HD 720p (1280 x 720) at 30 frames per second progressive scan

Simple to Share

• Built-in FlipShare™ software for instant viewing, editing, and one-click emailing with upgraded features:
• Browse, playback, organize and archive your videos
• Create movies with videos, music & titles
• Edit clips and save still photos from video
• Instantly upload to AOL, MySpace, YouTube and other video sites
• Share your videos using email or greetings cards (free and unlimited video sharing)
• Records high-quality H.264 videos that work with iTunes, iMovie, and iPhoto (MP4 files)

Specifications:

• Internal Memory: 4GB (60 minutes)
• Screen Size: 1.5” (transflective TFT)
• Screen Resolution: 528 x 132 pixels
• Video Resolution: 1280 x 720
• Frame Rate: 30 frames per second (constant frame rate, progressive scan)
• Video Bitrate: 8.8Mbps (average - auto adaptive algorithm)
• Video Format: H.264 video compression, AAC audio compression, saves as MP4 file
• Lens Type: Fixed Focus (1.5m to infinity)
• Aperture: f/2.4 (fast lens for great results in low-light environments)
• Zoom: Smooth multi-step 2x digital
• Interface: 8 Touch-Sensitive Capacitive Buttons (Power, Play, Delete, Record and 4 way navigation)
• Dimensions: 3.94” x 1.97” x 0.63” (H x W x D)
• PC Connection: Built-in flip-out USB arm (up to 2.0 USB speed)
• TV Out: NTSC (cable included)
• Battery Life: Rechargeable lithium ion battery, charges using built-in USB arm
• Tripod Mount: Yes
• Operating Systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista,Mac OSX

And here is the review roundup - all open in a new window.

• Engadget (WSJ)
• geeknewscentral
• obsessable.com
• Electronista.com
• NYTimes video review
• photodoto.com
• macworld.com
• pcmech.com
• digitalcamera-hq.com
• Malika Risley (Mino vs Mino HD)
• Odeo (video review)
• geeks.pirillo
• laptopmag.com
• the look from the bay (video)
• davekemick.com
• digitaldaily.info
• pcmag.com
• galttech.com
• AOL Television (video)
• MobilityToday (video)
• octechnophile.com

Buy Flip Video MinoHD Camcorder, 60 Minutes (Black)

These should keep you busy for a while ;)

Canon VIXIA HG21 HD Camcorder Review at Videomaker

From the review:

Capturing 1920x1080 high definition, the HG21 provides a ton of space to play in with its 120GB hard drive. Not only that, it offers up to 45 hours and 15 minutes of recording time in LP mode! And it still looks good, capturing 1440x1080 resolution. Videographers are also able to record up to 11 hours and 5 minutes in MXP mode, which captures video at 1920x1080 resolution.

The 12x HD lens offers breathtaking video that we found looked great even when zooming in from far distances. We liked that Canon offered three different levels of zoom control, to ensure clean-looking movement. The digital zoom is very powerful at 200x. Remarkably, it stayed very sharp and didn't get too shaky until close to the 200x mark. The SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization manages to handle the task very well, even under extremely harsh movement. The DIGIC DV II Image Processor adds advanced color reproduction in dark and light scenes, as well as skin tones.

Buy the Canon VIXIA HG21 AVCHD 120 GB HDD Camcorder with 12x Optical Zoom.

TECH SPECS

• Format: AVCHD, 120GB HD, SDHC
• Image Sensor: 1/3.2" CMOS sensor, RGB primary color filter
• Video Effective Pixels: Video: approx. 2.07; megapixels (1920x1080); still image: approx. 2.76; megapixels (1920x1440)
• Interchangeable Lenses: No
• Optical Zoom: 12x optical/200x digital
• Focal Length: f4.8 - 57mm
• Zoom Speed: Variable/3 fixed zoom speeds
• Max f-Stop: f1.8 - 3mm
• Manual White Balance: Yes
• LCD Monitor: 2.7" multi-angle vivid widescreen LCD (approx. 211,000 pixels)
• Video In: No
• Video Out: AV cord (S-video, composite, stereo RCA), USB port
• Progressive Scan: No
• Microphone In: Yes
• Headphone Jack: No
• Speaker: Yes
• Wireless Remote: Yes
• Battery Charger: External charger provided
• Battery Type: Lithium ion
• On-Board Video Light: Yes
• Accessory Shoe: Mini advanced
• Dimensions: 3.1"Wx3.0"Hx5.5"W (80x77x139mm)
• White Balance: Daylight, shade, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent, fluorescent H, auto, manual
• Recording Media: Internal hard-disk drive (120GB) or SD/SDHC memory card
• Programmed AE: Auto, program, AV, TV, cinema, portrait, sports, night, snow, beach, sunset, spotlight, fireworks

Read the full Videomaker review here.

Canon Vixia HV30 HDV Camcorder reviewed by videomaker

Greg Robinson at Videomaker.com wrote a review about the Canon HV30, a compact HD camera that uses the good old MiniDV tape to store the video.

From the review:

The HV30 is a good camera. It captures really good images for its category. And, even though it isn't tiny, it will fit nicely in a small bag or even an oversized coat pocket.

It uses the trusty Mini DV tape. This makes it a bit bigger than some of its cousins, but it also makes the playback quality better as well. Let's face it: AVCHD cameras still don't pump as much information through to their Flash cards and hard drives as good old HDV cameras do to tape.

The HV30 is a slightly updated version of last year's HV20, and Canon deserves kudos for keeping its HDV line healthy. There are good reasons why many users prefer to stick to tape.

Buy the Canon VIXIA HV30 MiniDV High Definition Camcorder with 10x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom.

Read the full review here.

SANYO Announces New “Dual Camera” Xacti All-HD Line-up for 2009

New York, January 21, 2009 – SANYO Fisher Company, a division of SANYO North America Corporation (SANYO) is pleased to introduce its new line-up of Dual Camera Xacti cameras designed to enhance active lifestyles by providing both high-definition video and photo capability in a single, easy-to-use compact camera. The new mixed form factor (Horizontal, Vertical) line-up of six (6) SANYO Dual Camera Xactis includes new Full HD 60fps units (VPC-FH1, VPC-HD2000), waterproof HD models (VPC-WH1, VPC-CA9) and Compact HD cameras (VPC-TH1, VPC-CG10). Availability for the US market will begin in March 2009.

New for 2009, Dual Cameras in horizontal body styles join models in Xacti’s signature vertical form factor, offering a broad line of models designed to appeal to discerning consumers and retailers.

Dual Camera Xactis record photos and videos to SD/SDHC media cards (sold separately) and are thumb-operable for key functions, with separate video and photo buttons for easy switching between shooting video and photos. Unlike conventional camcorders, there’s no need to stop to switch modes and miss capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments. With two new Dual Camera models—that’s true even when those special moments occur underwater!

The 2009 Dual Cameras offer the convenience of both television and computer-use/viewing, plus easy Web sharing of recorded high-quality MPEG-4/H.264 video clips. Several new models are compatible with optional lenses for expanded shooting flexibility. Some 2009 models (WH1, TH1) also offer an amazing recording time of up to 3 hours 20 minutes thanks to a small but powerful SANYO battery and an engine designed to save energy. With a Dual Camera Xacti, one is all you need.

Main Features: VPC-FH1 (Horizontal) and VPC-HD2000 (Vertical)

• Full 1080p HD Video (60fps)
• 8-Megapixel Digital Photos and High-Speed Sequential Shooting (12fps*)　
• High Speed Recording/Super Slow Motion Playback (240/600fps for 1/4 or 1/10 playback)
• 3-inch wide LCD Monitor (FH1), 2.7-inch wide LCD monitor (HD2000) for HD Playback
• 10x Optical Zoom for photos
• 16x advanced zoom (more area included than standard zooming, 160x digital zoom) for video
• Digital Image Stabilizer (Movies & Stills)
• ‘Face Chaser’ technology (up to 12 faces) for photos/videos
• HDMI Output (FH1); HDMI Digital Interface via Cradle (HD2000)
• Optional lenses: Tele, Wide, Semi-Fisheye
• External microphone input (HD2000)

Via Sanyo press release

SVP 8GB SDHC Class 6 Digital Memory Card for $15 on ebay

This guy here offers a 8GB SDHC card with free shipping to US for $15. Worth a look if you want one.

Format: Secure Digital, SD
Condition: New, Never Opened
Sub-Format: Standard
Storage Capacity: 8 GB

Or go the safe route and get a Transcend 8 GB SDHC SD Class 6 Flash Memory Card TS8GSDHC6E [Amazon Frustration-Free Packaging] here.

Sanyo announces Xacti DMX-CG10 HD camcorder

The camcorder is capable of taking HD videos and capturing still photos of up to 10-megapixel resolution. It features a 3-inch LCD display and weighs just 171g.The Xacti DMX-CG10 supports the MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video compression format and real-time interpolation technology that allows movies to be saved as a single file, just like photos, for easier handling on computers and the Internet.

Its other features include motion correction (anti-shake) function and Face Chaser Function for movies and stills.

The price and availability are yet to be announced.

Buy Sanyo Xacti VPC-E1 6MP Waterproof MPEG4 Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Blue)

Official Sanyo Press Release:

Sanyo is pleased to introduce its new line-up of Xacti Dual Cameras, a line-up that redefines digital imaging by allowing greater flexibility for camera lovers and users all over the world with an amazing line-up of cameras that take both photos and videos, enhancing and enriching active lifestyles.

The new mixed form factor (Horizontal, Vertical) line-up of five cameras include new waterproof HD models (DMX-WH1, DMX-CA9), a stylish Compact HD unit (DMX-CG10), and Full HD 60p cameras (DMX-FH11, DMX-HD2000). The first camera to be released in the sequence for the new 2009 line-up will be the DMX-HD2000, available starting from February 6, 2009.

Buy Sanyo Xacti HD1010 4MP MPEG4 High Definition 1080i/1080p Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom

Xacti Dual Cameras combine the benefits of digital still cameras and camcorders into one unit, offering the freedom to take both photos and videos separately, yet seamlessly. The cameras are small and compact, making them ultra-portable and easy to hold for active filming and shooting anywhere or anytime while on the go, recording high definition videos and taking high resolution photos in either vertical or horizontal form factors, providing more options to choose from, to match any lifestyle or preference.

Via techgadgets.in, Nexus404

Polaroid DVC-00725F High Definition Digital Camcorder for $129.99, today

Deal of the day: a new Polaroid DVC-00725F High Definition 720p Digital Camcorder (5MP still) for $130 + $5 shipping. Of course, the deal is valid only today and while supplies last.

Read a quick review of the cam at gosublogger.

Check out woot.com for the deal.

Sanyo VPC-CG10 and VPC-TH1 unveiled

Sanyo unveiled two new 720P high definition camcorders today, the upright, "pistol-grip" VPC-CG10 and the VPC-TH1, a traditionally-shaped horizontal design. Each offers different strengths: the TH1 tries to make a name for itself with its diminutive size, and offers a larger 30x optical zoom but smaller 2-megapixel CMOS sensor. The CG10 is positioned as a camera/camcorder hybrid, with has a smaller 5x optical zoom but a much larger 10-megapixel CMOS and high-res photos. Both find themselves in a market flooded with new models fighting for attention.

Via CamcorderInfo

Sanyo Xacti HDX-2000: 1080p 60fps

Wow. This gotta be a cool little gadget. the Xacti HDX-2000 can record full HD 1080p video at 60fps, and that is good for shooting high motion action scenes, sports, car chases, base jumps and other extreme stuff you may get involved in. Check out some of the Sanyo 2009 camcorder lineup.

Sanyo have taken the wraps off of their 2009 line-up of Xacti camcorders, including an update to the company’s popular pistol-grip full-HD HDX range. The new Sanyo Xacti HDX-2000, shown here in gold and black, is capable of full HD 1080p recording at 60fps together with 8-megapixel stills (interpolated up to 12-megapixel) that can be taken simultaneously. Sanyo have also introduced a traditional camcorder form-factor version, the Xacti DMX-FH11, which has an integrated 8GB of flash memory. Both models have microSD slots. Sanyo also announced a new range of waterpoof camcorders, the Xacti DMX-CA9 and Xacti DMX-WH1, which record at standard definition and can be submerged to 1.5m and 3m respectively. The WH1 has a 30x optical zoom, and both have anti-shake and face-detection.

Via SlashGear

Sanyo Introduces Two Waterproof HD Camcorders: The VPC-WH1 and VPC-CA9

Sanyo expanded its line of high definition waterproof camcorders today with two new models. The VPC-CA9 will replace last year's VPC-CA8 as the new upright, "pistol-grip" model, submersible to 1.5 meters. The VPC-WH1 is a new model in a horizontal form factor, and can go down to 3 meters. Both record in 1280 x 720P are available in a variety of colors.

The VPC-WH1 offers a 30x optical zoom, 2-megapixel still photo capture, and Sanyo's new noise reduction technology. Video can be exported through an HDMI connection, also a first for Sanyo, as is the new long battery life, with an expected 180 minutes of record time. The WH1 also has a 2.5-inch LCD and Face Detection for up to 12 faces.

The VPC-CA9 may not be able to play in the same depths as the WH1, but the video quality may be more enticing. The camcorder features a 9-megapixel CMOS sensor, allowing for native still photos of the same size, or 12-megapixel interpolated images. The LCD and Face Detection features are the same as the WH1, but the CA9 has a no HDMI or extended life battery.

Via camcorderinfo

Canon Vixia HF100 review roundup

Yes, I like roundups. Gathering information and sharing it with others gives me a warm feeling. The Canon Vixia HF100 is a cool little HD camcorder with Flash memory and AVCHD format recording, image stabilizing features, isntant auto focus, 12x HD video zoom lens, among others. It ended up with verdicts around 80% in most reviews.

The Canon official product page says:

Now, with the light, compact Canon VIXIA HF100, you can have stunning AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format recording with the ease and numerous benefits of Flash Memory. It's used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones.

Add to that the VIXIA HF100's Canon Exclusive features such as our own 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS sensor and advanced DIGIC DV II Image Processor, SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization, Instant Auto Focus, our 2.7" Widescreen Multi-Angle Vivid LCD and the Genuine Canon 12x HD video zoom lens and you have a Flash Memory camcorder that's hard to beat and unmistakably Canon.

Main features:

• AVCHD Flash Memory in a Compact Size
• Canon Exclusive: 3.3 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Sensor
• Full HD Lens-to Screen (1920 x 1080 Capture and Recording)
• Genuine Canon 12x HD Video Zoom Lens
• Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DV II Image Processor
• Canon Exclusive: SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization
• Canon Exclusive: Instant AF (Auto Focus)
• Canon Exclusive: 2.7" Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD
• Superb Shooting Control
• 24p Cinema Mode
• 30p Progressive Mode
• Stunning Digital Photography
• Mini HDMI Terminal and Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe
• Share Your Photos
• Bundled Pixela ImageMixer Software

The reviews:

• CNET Review
• alaTest.com
• pcadvisor.co.uk
• pcauthority.com.au
• trustedreviews.com
• reviewed.com
• laptopmag.com
• camcorderinfo.com
• simplydv.co.uk
• macworld.co.uk
• digitaltrends.com
• nytimes.com
• thedvshow.com
• newspaper-video.blogspot.com
• Youtube: Canon Vixia HF100 vs Sony HandyCam HDR-CX12
• picturecorrect.com
• newgadgetsguru.com
• gadgets.softpedia.com

You can also check the related Canon Vixia HF100 Wikipedia page.

Support this site, buy the Canon VIXIA HF100 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom at Amazon through this link.

Sony HDR-XR520V, A 240GB Consumer HD Camcorder review

SonyInsider has a review of the HDR-XR520V Handycam camcorder. This model has 240GB of storage space for up to an amazing 94 hours of HD content, a GPS receiver for geotagging the 12.1 Megapixel stills (Geotagging: attaching GPS location coordinates of where the shot was taken) and the new Exmor R CMOS sensor for bright, crisp video.

Buy Sony HDR-SR11 10.2-MP 60GB High Definition Hard Drive Handycam Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

They also have a head-to-head comparison video of HDR-SR12 vs. HDR-XR520V Exmor-R Sensor on Vimeo.

Check out the full review here.

Canon Vixia HV40 info

So we have the Canon Vixia HV40, one of the HD camcorders in the 2009 lineup from Canon. This model will record your dog doing tricks in HD to HDV format (Consumer High-Definition Digital Video) onto a MiniDV cassette and is planned to release in April 2009.

Check out the Vixia HV40 official page at Canon USA for full specs, but the main features are:

• HD Video (true 1080 at 16:9 to MiniDV tape, optional Standard Definition)
  
• Canon 10x HD Video Lens
• Canon Exclusive: Canon 2.96 Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor
• Canon Exclusive: DIGIC DV II Image Processor
• Canon Exclusive: SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization
• Canon Exclusive: Instant AF (Auto Focus)
• Native 24p Mode
• 24p Cinema Mode
• 30p Progessive Mode
• Built-in 3.1 Megapixel Digital Camera
• Custom Key
• Canon Exclusive: 2.7" Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD
• Advanced Accessory Shoe Terminal
• HDMI Terminal
• Brilliant Video
• Edit and Share Your Video (DV streaming, IEEE 1394)
  
• Share Your Photos (Print/Share button, miniSD card slot)
  
• Additional Features (Built-in Electronic Lens Cover, Playback of 60i/30p/24p Video, USB 2.0, AD Converter, Wireless Remote Control)
  

Canon Vixia HF10 flash based camcorder review at cnet

Yeah I know its old, but this pretty little Vixia HF10camcorder still can do the job for you and your family if you don't need the latest and the greatest.

From the review:

Canon may not have been first out of the gate with a flash-based camcorder--or second, or third--but its debut model, the high-definition Vixia HF10, gets it right the first time. A sleek, black compact model with a well-rounded feature set, great video, and excellent performance, the HF10 definitely deserves a spot on your short list of potential home-movie camcorders.

The bottom line: Canon's first flash-based camcorder, the Canon Vixia HF10, delivers excellent HD video quality and performance in a tiny package.


Canon says:

From Canon's long history of optical excellence, advanced image processing, superb performance and technological innovation in photographic and broadcast television cameras comes the latest in high definition camcorders.

Now, with the light, compact Canon VIXIA HF10, you can have stunning AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format recording with the ease and numerous benefits of Flash Memory. It's used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, MP3 players, PDAs and cell phones. Canon offers the best in Flash Memory with Dual Flash Memory- record to both the camcorder's 16 GB internal memory and a removable SDHC card, extending your available recording space and offering added flexibility in file transfer and playback.

Read the full Cnet review here or another review at camcorderinfo.com right here or the official Canon product page here or you can even buy the Canon VIXIA HF10 Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 16 GB Internal Flash Memory and 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom.

Sanyo Xacti HD800 - Let's shoot more movies

The Sanyo Xacti HD800 is aimed at consumers who want HD videos, up to 8Megapixel stills, video blogging and video sharing and easy connection in one device. The Xacti DMX-HD800 camcorder is available in gold, pink and black, trying to focus on female users. Once again, I miss a "Hello Kitty" version.

The Xacti HD800 uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video-recording format, which records video and audio data into the same file. Files in this format are highly compressed, which means you can record for longer while maintaining image quality. As both video and audio information are contained in the same files, they are easier to upload to the web. Despite its small, pocket- or purse-fitting body, the HD800 can take high-definition videos and 8.0-megapixel still images. You can even record videos and stills simultaneously, without the hassle of having to switch modes.

The Xacti HD800 has a face chaser function capable of capturing up to 12 persons in both video- and still-shooting modes. Partial faces are more accurately detected as well, thanks to a new control system. Now you can capture your target more easily, whether you’re shooting a video or a still image. This function also rapidly tracks your subject’s face during video shooting. When you use the face chaser function to prioritize people in your videos and stills, the camera adjusts the focus and exposure in real time for beautiful results.

See the Sanyo Xacti HD800 product page.

Toshiba Camileo H10 reviewed

From the review:

For a start, the device comes with just 64MB of memory built in, which is enough to test things are working and very little else. So you will need to factor in an SD card from the outset, although that's hardly a major expense these days. The H10 has four different recording options. The headline act is HD, although this is 1,280 x 720, not Full HD. There is also a D1 option that operates at 720 x 480, plus VGA at 640 x 480, and QVGA at 320 x 240 to choose from. All run at 30 frames per second, however, rather than the European-friendly 25 frames per second.

At its top setting, the H10 uses a 4Mbits/sec data rate, which isn't particularly high, even for 720p resolution instead of Full HD. So a 2GB SD card will be enough for a little over an hour of video. Considering 2GB cards can be had for little more than a quid these days, we wonder why Toshiba didn't just bung one in the box for good measure.

Read the full review at trustedreviews.com

Poor man's HD camcorder: Genius G-Shot HD55 with 720p video

Behold really cheap HD recording from Genius, the G-Shot HD55. From the single real photo I found on the web, it looks pretty fragile. Let's hope the build quality is good.

Techtree.com says:

The Genius G-Shot HD55 is a 5.0 MP CMOS camcorder with a HD video camera that records at 720p (1280x720@30fps). It uses the high compression H.264 format. It has a 3.0 inch TFT LCD screen that can be swiveled. It has capabilities of playing back content on normal as well as HDTV. Though the internal memory is just 32 MB, it provides a SDHC slot that can accept SDHC cards for recording content.

Genius is well known in Europe and Asia as a manufacturer of speakers, keyboards, mice, webcams and other computer accessories.

Check the G-Shot HD55 product detail page at Genius.

Buy the older Genius G-shot DV5133 VGA camcorder at Amazon (not HD, but cheap).

Go check the company product lineup at http://www.geniusnet.com

Samsung HMX-R10 Reviewed

While it still looks like a UFO with its angled lens and bubbly design, the HMX-R10 HD camcorder has a lot under the hood.

camcorderinfo.com has a review of the camcorder and t hey say:

The HMX-R10 has a unique 8x optical full HD lens. There is no lens cap, but the tempered glass is designed to withstand bumps and scratches. The lens is also angled at 25 degrees, which changes the way you hold the camcorder. The new grip is unintuitive at first, but ultimately more comfortable and ergonomic. The R10 is also equipped with the highest resolution sensor of any Samsung camcorder—and one of the largest. This could produce impressive low light results and it promises to make the R10 an intriguing choice for a video/still hybrid.

Cehck out the full review here.

Panasonic announced Three New Camcorders, the SDR-H80, SDR-H90 and SDR-S26

Although not HD, these camcorders are worth a post here. According to the Panasonic press release, they all have the world's most powerful 70X zoom lens dubbed "ultra-zoom", plus the optical image stabilizing (O.I.S.) you are familiar with. The HDR-S90 and HDR-S80 (pictured above) camcorders also have HDD storage, while the S26 has only SD/SDHC.

From the press release:

Panasonic today expanded its 2009 camcorder line with the addition of two Hard Disk Drive (HDD) models, the SDR-H80 and SDR-H90; and one SD Card model, the SDR-S26 – all of which feature the world’s first and most powerful 70x optical ultra-zoom lens*. All three models also include an advanced Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) system which helps reduce blur caused by a shaky hand and Panasonic’s proprietary Intelligent Auto (iA) technologies, making the camcorders easy to use.

The powerful 70x optical ultra-zoom lens is supported by Panasonic’s advanced O.I.S. system which reduces the effect of hand-shake even when subjects are zoomed to maximum magnification. Gyrosensors detect hand shake, and the advanced O.I.S. shifts the lens to correct the optical axis and repeats this detection and correction process about 4,000 times per second. This superb correction performance, which produces sharp, clear motion images far better than electronic image stabilization systems, is critical for a camcorder with such a long and powerful zoom.

Other features of the SDR-H80, SDR-H90 and SDR-S26 include:

- Easy YouTube Upload – this convenient function makes it fast and easy to upload video clips to YouTube.com for easy sharing. Simply install VideoCam Suite software that comes with the model and connect to a PC using the USB interface. ***

- Quick Start Mode – Takes just 0.8 seconds for the camcorders to start up in quick start mode, ensuring that sudden shooting opportunities are not missed.

- Easy Copy to DVD – Most people use their camcorders for three main purposes: to shoot, play, and archive video recordings. They want each of these functions to be as easy as possible. This feature lets the user save data onto DVDs without all the fuss. By connecting the camcorder to the VW-BN1 DVD Burner (optional) using a USB cable, video recordings can easily be copied to a 12-cm DVD (DVD-RAM/-RW/-R/-R DL). The disc can then be played back on DVD players.

The SDR-H80 has a suggested retail price (SRP) of $449.95 and will come in four colors, silver, black, red and blue models; while the SDR-90 has an SRP of $499.95 and will come in black only. The SDR-S26 has an SRP of $329.95 and will come in champagne, black, blue and red models. All three camcorders will be available in April 2009.