You can get this Mini DV JVC for $449.00 at
www.bhphotovideo.com
click on "consumer video" then "camcorder specials"
The GR-DVL520 DualCam Mini DV camcorder provides high quality picture and PCM digital stereo sound. In combination with JVC's super hi-band processor, Mini DV allows this camcorder to deliver a high performance of 520 lines horizontal resolution. Incorporates a 680,000 pixel CCD that assures superior high-resolution picture performance. Other features include IEEE-1394 (input and output) terminal, a USB port for high speed transfer of still images into a PC.
Key Features
? Versatile Multimedia Interface DV in/out terminal i.link: IEEE-1394
Provides fast loss-less Digital transfer to a computer or dubbing from or to another DV unit.
? PCM Digital Stereo Sound
12/16-bit audio: 16-bit offers one set of stereo tracks and achieves the same quality as CD, while the 12-bit mode creates two sets of stereo tracks. Audio dub is possible when recorded in 12-bit mode.
? USB Terminal
Enables high-speed transfer of digital still images to a USB compatible computer. And once you transfer the still images to a PC, you can apply a variety of post production effects using the supplied software.
? Built-In Digital Still Camera
The still mode is capable of capturing crystal-clear still images of XGA (1024 x 768) or VGA (640 x 480) resolution. The images are stored on a removable multimedia or SD (Secure Digital) memory card that is independent of the video recording.
8MB Multimedia Card: XGA Fine Mode 24 Images, Standard Mode 75 Images, VGA Fine Mode 55 Images, Standard Mode 190 Images.
? Zoom
Equipped with a 10x optical zoom that lets you close in on your subject with a pure optical quality, and the 700x digital zoom that allows you go all the way out with incredible close-ups. Spline Interpolation technology smoothes out image contours to minimize jagged edges. You can also zoom in on any part of an image during playback with the 70x pinpoint zoom.
? Picture Stabilizer
The stabilizer system corrects camera shake instantly, giving you smooth and stable pictures.
? LCD Monitor
This camcorder is equipped with a 2.5" tiltable LCD screen for high angle overhead shooting, low angle shots, or even self portraits.
? Night Alive
JVC's Night Alive feature boosts light sensitivity for a bright picture, even in situations with minimal illumination. Gives you full color images, whether your subject is close by or far away. This feature supercedes the infrared based system which turns the image black and white, and you have distance limitations.
? Built-In Auto Light
Functions according to brightness conditions. The main benefit is improved picture quality in facial color when shooting in low light levels.
? Special Effects
A combination of built-in Digital Special Effects and Wipes/Fades will give your videos a polished and professional look.
? Snapshot Mode
Records a photo-like still image onto the video cassette with a shutter sound effect in full frame or pin-up mode.