Photos: Hands-on with dual-format JVC Everio HD30 and HD40

Although there weren't that many big announcements in the camera and camcorder sphere at IFA 2008, we still grabbed the chance to catch up with recent debutantes. At the JVC stand, we got some hands-on time with the JVC Everio GZ-HD30 and GZ-HD40, two high-definition hybrid dual-format camcorders. They're solid, but not too chunky and felt light -- although this may be because the models shown off at IFA didn't have batteries -- they were powered from the mains, which is practical but also slightly misleading.

Both cameras record in dual-format: video is saved as AVCHD H.264 or MPEG-2. AVCHD allows for greater compression than MPEG-2 without too much loss of quality. JVC doesn't want to let go of MPEG-2 even while AVCHD is becoming more popular, but hey, it's always nice to have a choice.

Each model gives you the choice of recording to the 1/8-inch hard disk drive or microSD memory card, and they allow you to transfer footage between the two. The microSD option only allows for AVCHD filming.

Both camcorders sport a 1/3-inch CMOS imaging sensor, with a resolution of 2.68-megapixels. The 10x optical zoom is responsive, if a little slow. Controls are straightforward, although the fun -- if rather gimmicky -- laser-touch system is missing.

All the connection bases are covered, with both cameras sporting slots and sockets for HDMI out, USB 2.0/1.1, AV out, component video out, microSD card, mic in, and headphone out.

The JVC Everio HD30 is available now for £645, and the HD40 for £800 and upwards. Click through the links to see the difference between the models. -Rich Trenholm

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