Shoot high-def video with high-end JVC camcorder, $399

This HD camcorder normally sells for at least $600.

(Credit: eCost)

Remember the refurbished, tape-based Canon HD camcorder from a few weeks ago? It was $450, which seemed like a pretty good deal at the time. But now eCost has the JVC Everio GZ-HD5US, an HD camcorder with a 60GB hard drive, new, for $399. I don't know if that's a mistake or what, because other stores are selling it for $600 and up. JVC's direct price: $1,199.

Folks, this is not an entry-level camcorder. It has three CCDs, a 2.8-inch LCD, optical image stabilization, an HDMI output, and a 60GB hard drive. (For full GZ-HD5 specs, see JVC's site.) Alas, the optical zoom tops out at 10x, and it records 1080i video instead of 1080p, but I don't consider those major shortcomings.

Rather, I'm pretty blown away by this deal. My only concern is that I can't seem to find any substantive reviews of this model. On paper, it looks excellent, and eCost's price is almost too good to be true--especially given that this is new, not a refurb, with no rebates. (Shipping will run you a reasonable $11 or so.) My advice: If you're in the market for an HD camcorder, buy this now.

Update: Looks like eCost has bumped the price to $439. Maybe $399 was a mistake after all. Even so, it's still a helluva deal.

[ducttape36]

ecost is a pretty shady site from what i hear. terrible customer service and return policies. however, this being a new item and not a refurb, i suppose your chances of having to deal with customer service or send it back are significantly lower. might be worth it.

p.s. woot is having a woot off today. get your christmas shopping done early!

[rickbroida]

I've heard many eCost complaints in the past, but I've never had an (unresolved) problem with them.

[ngcomputing]

These companies just don't get it. Anyone that has used an LCD knows it is really tough to shoot in outdoor conditions. Although this may be a tempting product, I suggest you shop around for a cam that has a classic viewfinder and save yourself a lot of aggravation.

[murbo]

hd5 is a year old now, very obsolete, plus it doesn't shoot avchd, and if you drop it you loose 60 gigs of video (possibly)
the reason the price is falling on old jvc's is because they finally hopped on the avchd train and released a new cam.
the new lcd's are usually glare-proof so sunlight is okay.

also, Rick, have you checked the specs on it? i was looking at camcorderinfo.com and they say the cam can output 1080p video which is weird if it cant shoot 1080p
maybe it shoots 1080p but records it in 1080i to fit the encoding specifications.. a reverse telecine would do the trick in editing

one last thing, i would really suggest panasonic for 3ccd rigs. and do NOT get CMOS sensors, the rolling shutter on those will drive anyone out of their minds, i just returned a canon hf11

[rickbroida]

The specs on JVC's own product page say 1080i. Check the link in the post...

[WallyChamp]

Price seems to have bumped up to $439 as of 11/19 9:14 am PST

I've ordered a computer and a 42 inch lcd from eCost and never had a problem. While I can't account for others, I recommend them.

[alegr]

Hard-drive camcorder is a bit yesteryear. I'll have 32GB flash modules instead. They don't crash, will survive drops, easy to transfer to PC, take less power, don't need spinup, weight less, etc.

[Nychocolips]

The uncomfortable thing about not having a review is not knowing about the low-light capabilities of the camcorder. They are NOTORIOUS for having poor performance. I'd like to believe that FINALLY JVC has addressed this in their line. Maybe I'm wrong. I'll go for it. Now, how will I take advantage of having this Hi-Def now?....

As far as ECOST, the worst problem I had was them shipping a bit later than I would like. But that doesn't mean peoples complaints are invalid. The test of a company is how they handled difficulties when they (infrequently?) arise.

Rick, thanks for the hunting. Even when I disagree with you I appreciate you. And I am always impressed at how calmly you respond to some of the ruder comments.

Thanks

[rickbroida]

Thank YOU. Those comments really mean a lot.

[Nychocolips]

The camera has gone up to $489.99 from $399.99. Wow. I'm glad I bought it earlier. I'll see about writing a review on the camera later.

[way299]

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