JVC's long-awaited GY-HM600 camera is now available

This is the basic model of the new generation of ProHD solid-state camcorders that was presented earlier this year at the NAB 2012 event. It incorporates an integrated 23X zoom lens and provides impressive low-light performance with excellent sensitivity (F11 at 2000 lux).

JVC has already begun to market the new GY-HM600 camcorder, the basic model of the new generation of ProHD solid-state camcorders that JVC announced at the last NAB.

The new HD camera incorporates an integrated 23X zoom lens and provides impressive low-light performance with excellent sensitivity (F11 at 2000 lux).

With a 1.22 megapixel color viewfinder and a 3.5″ LCD panel located at the height of the handle next to the microphone, the GY-HM600 is versatile enough for both scenes shot on a tripod and for unexpected situations where shooting and recording is essential. It is equipped with 3 1/3″ CMOS sensors with Full HD resolution (1920x1080 pixels) with 12-bit signal processing. Sophisticated Fujinon optics offer a wide focal length of 29 – 667mm. (35 mm equivalent) and has manual focus and zoom, diaphragm adjustment rings and 3 ND filters. Other features include autofocus functionality with face detection and an optical image stabilizer.

This handy, lightweight camera records HD or SD images in various formats, from native XDCAM EX (.MP4) or Final Cut Pro™ (.MOV), and AVCHD, to universal SDHC or SDXC cards. In addition to a repeat recording mode on 2 SD cards in the two available slots, the GY-HM600 also allows simultaneous recording on both memory cards, either for an instant backup or a copy for the client. Additionally, PRE REC (retro cache) mode continuously records and stores up to 20 seconds of recording in cache memory to avoid losing those key moments in a scene when the action catches the operator off guard.

Equipped with a LANC connector for remote control and compatible with JVC's ProHD 7″ studio setup monitor, the GY-HM600 can be easily used as a studio camera. The camera also includes a timecode sync input, as well as HD-SDI and HDMI outputs. The GY-HM600 features a built-in stereo microphone, 2 XLR inputs with phantom power, a clip for an optional shotgun microphone, a headphone jack, and an additional input for a wireless microphone receiver.

“Our new GY-HM600 offers a high degree of innovation without intermediate solutions,” said Craig Yanagi, MKT Director of JVC Professional Products Company in the USA… “With amazing image quality and the fastest editing workflow in this industry, it is a fully equipped camera, ideal for news, sports, live event coverage and independent productions.”

Another new camera within this new ProHD generation, the GY-HM650, will be available soon. Designed specifically for mobile electronic journalism applications, it has similar specifications to the GY-HM600 but includes built-in FTP and Wi-Fi connectivity. With its double codec, it is capable of generating Full HD files at the same time and also smaller files designed to be uploaded to the Internet and sent to studios without having to resort to microwave links or a satellite connection.