This is my first camcorder, so I tried to be selec ...
Strengths:Small and light overall package, integrated digi-cam, 16x optical zoom, twin LED lighting, color LCD Eye Viewer and great features for the price make this a good buy.
Weaknesses:The microphone is a bit too sensitive, too much of a cheap plastic feel, no external light or mic connector, low light performance, delay in auto-focus, and flimsy handstrap are things to consider.
Posted Nov 8, 2004 - This is my first camcorder, so I tried to be selective before making my purchase. I knew it would have to be a mini-DV format, have a large optical zoom, bang-for-the-buck, compact, good quality image and sound, and reliable. I had originally looked at a Sony, but they cost quite a bit more and according to the reviews didn’t seem to do as well compared to JVC. I have used Sony's high-8 and digi-8 camcorders in the past and have found them both to have excellent quality images, but the small form factor and the rumors that 8mm was being phased out made me realize mini-DV was probably the best way to go.
I read most of the reviews on the net before purchasing the GR-D72US and aside from a few complaints the low price and features made it a very good deal. However, you get what you pay for, because what it adds in features it lacks in overall quality and performance. The lens can take a few seconds to readjust if you zoom in or out too quickly. Low light videos look grainy and the digi-cam is only good for fun memory shots and not for printing. The camera also feels a bit off balanced in my medium-sized hand and it actually feels too small, as some of the buttons are hard to reach or operate. I also prefer Sony's nighshot (green/black images that allow you to see in complete darkness) over JVC's grainy lowlight color imaging that skips a frame between filming. Cool for doing the robot or break dancing. Bad for trying to film my newborn daughter sleeping.
This maybe a small complaint, but JVC didn’t even bother including a rubber plug to cover the external ports for the AC and AV connectors. A small touch, but would have been a nice detail to keep dirt out. Again these are the things that keep JVC from being a Sony. Overall, the GR-D72US met all my expectations for a budget mid-range camera that includes more expensive camera features (if only they'd worked a little better). I'll have to spend more time with it to rate the battery, but I'm definitely going to buy a longer-lasting one off eBay for less than $20. I also haven't had a chance to download video to my computer, but I'm looking forward to it. I just hope it's easy to use.
I’d recommend it for a beginner or novice who wants added features on a budget.
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For 449$ one could go for a better one like Pana ...
Do not buy this camera
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