The GZ-HM400EK Everio HD Memory Camera PAL Camcorder is a high-end consumer camcorder with a number of bells and whistles. As the name implies, the camera features 1920 x 1080 AVCHD recording along with a myriad of other recording options.
The HM400 provides 32GB of built-in flash memory storage and the option to record to SD/SDHC memory cards. Capturing all those high definition video and 9MP still images would be the impressive 10.3MP CMOS sensor, while a slightly larger than normal 2.8" LCD gives you room to compose and playback. The Konica Minolta HD lens with 15x Dynamic zoom and Optical Image Stabilization round out the primary features and functions.
Looking at the camcorder a little closer reveals considerations that allow for higher quality recording and control, whether you're an aspiring film-maker or you simply value options. First off, there's JVC's proprietary K2 Technology which restores audio details lost during compression. When it comes to manual adjustments the multi-function dial enables user control of brightness and focus while the direct control buttons give you easy access to Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed, and user-assignable operations. Other indispensable functions include an accessory shoe, the option to attach wide-angle or telephoto conversion lenses, and the microphone in and headphone out connections.
Finally, a number convenience features help to get the most out of your video and still images without worry. There's Ultra-Slow Motion Playback, simultaneous video and 5.3MP still capture, Face Detection, and Laser Touch Operation controls to name just a few. And when you're ready to share or store your footage the HM400 has plenty of options for that too. One Touch Upload allows for simply transfer of videos to YouTube, while One Touch Export allows for easy export of your videos to iTunes for playback on your iPod or iPhone. There's also One Touch DVD creation when connected to the optional JVC SHARE STATION.
Video and Audio Performance
Full HD 1920 x 1080 Video
GZ-HM400 incorporates a 10.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor to record 1920 x 1080 Full HD AVCHD format video. The camera records at 1080 TV lines of horizontal resolution - the theoretical maximum level of 1920 x 1080 Full HD
Real 9 Megapixel Stills with No Interpolation
The 10.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor is also the source of 9 Megapixel digital still images. By using the Bayer array for arranging RGB color filters, real 9 Megapixel stills with no interpolation are possible
HD Gigabrid Premium II Engine
At the heart of the HM400's image quality is the HD Gigabrid Premium II Engine which enables high speed processing of a huge amount of pixel data to allow quality video recording
Optical Image Stabilizer
JVC's proprietary Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) uses two active prisms to correct camera shake. It stabilizes at the zoom entrance for effectiveness over the entire zoom range
Konica Minolta HD Lens
GZ-HM400 uses a new Konica Minolta HD Lens with a 10x optical zoom which magnifies up to 15x without picture degradation thanks to Dynamic Zoom technology
24Mbps Ultra High Quality Recording
In UXP video recording mode, you can record at 24Mbps, the highest bit rate possible for AVCHD video, for more detailed, sharper images with less noise
1920x1080/50P Output
This function outputs a 1080 scanning line image at progressive 50fps so you can enjoy uncompromising picture quality on a TV that accepts 1080P input
K2 Technology for High Quality Audio
This JVC exclusive technology has been well-received in the audio field. It restores the sound details lost during compression to enable high-quality audio playback that is closer to the original
Manual Controls & Advanced Shooting
Multi-Function Dial
A lever switch lets you directly access the Brightness and Focus adjustment. And a manual adjustment dial enables precise adjustment for various manual settings without having to go through menus
Direct Control Buttons
Easily accessible direct control buttons are available for Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed, and user-assignable operations. You can register frequently used settings, offering a higher degree of personal control
Pro-Style Zoom Lever
WIDE/TELE seesaw-style zoom lever for sure operation
Accessory Shoe
External accessories like a microphone or video light can be attached for serious shooting
Conversion Lens Attachable
Optional wide-angle or telephoto conversion lens (46mm) can be attached for creative shooting
Mic In & Headphone Out
Utilize an optional external microphone or headphone for advanced video recording with high quality audio
High Speed & Convenient Functions
15fps/9 Megapixel Motor Drive Shooting
As many as six 9 Megapixel stills can be shot at up to 15 frames per second, a speed that surpasses what's offered by typical 9 Megapixel DSLR cameras. You can also shoot 5.3 Megapixel continuous stills (up to 11) at even higher speed
High-Speed Recording for Ultra-Slow Motion Playback
High-speed recording mode shoots ultra-slow motion video to capture dynamic movement that is not visible to the naked eye. This is an effective tool for sports technique analysis and nature studies. Three speed modes available
Dual Mode: 5.3 Megapixel Stills While Recording Full HD Video
GZ-HM400 also allows shooting of 1920 x 1080/50i HD video and 5.3 Megapixel stills at the same time. This way, you won't have to exit the Video mode each time you want to take still images, thereby minimizing the chances of a missed shot
Face Detection
Detects up to 16 faces then accurately adjusts the focus and exposure for sharp, beautiful images
Laser Touch Operation
This innovative user-interface features a touch-sensitive slide bar that you slide your finger over to access various functions and select still and video files. It also enables zooming and recording start/stop control in addition to the usual buttons on the top and rear of the camera
Auto Power ON/OFF & Auto Lens Cover
Just open the LCD; the power turns on and the lens cover automatically opens. Just close the LCD to power off and close the lens cover too
10 Modes of Scene Selection
A variety of preset modes available according to the subject you're shooting: Portrait, Snow, Twilight, Landscape, Sports, Sunset, Night, Spotlight, Beach, and Fireworks
Extended Recording
32GB Internal Flash Memory
Allows recording of Full HD video for up to 14 hours and 44 minutes. Up to 9,999 9MP stills also storable
SD Card Slot for Extra Storage
You can use an SD/SDHC card for additional recording. Up to 32GB card compatible
High Power Battery for Longer Recording
The supplied long-life battery offers an industry-leading continuous recording time of 2 hours and 25 minutes
Sharing & Archiving Solutions
One Touch Upload to YouTube
The One Touch Upload function, when used with the included software for Windows, simplifies uploading videos to YouTube. Simply connect HD Everio to a PC using the provided USB cable, and press "UPLOAD". The software launches automatically, converts the footage file and uploads it to YouTube
One Touch Export - Compatible with iTunes
A One Touch Export function, provided by bundled software for Windows, makes it easy to export videos into iTunes for playback on an iPod or iPhone. Simply connect the HD Everio to a PC, using the provided USB cable, and press "EXPORT". The software launches automatically, converts the footage file, and imports it into your iTunes library
One Touch DVD Creation
With Everio, archiving your videos onto a disc is simple. Use a PC or optional SHARE STATION DVD Burner, and you can burn DVDs from Everio's recordings. You can archive your Full HD video files on DVD discs (AVCHD DVD) and Blu-ray discs (Burning Blu-ray discs not available with SHARE STATION)
Easy Full HD Viewing
The optional CU-VS100 HD Media Player is an AVCHD video player with a dual SD card slot. Connect to HDTV via HDMI and just insert the recorded SD card; you can enjoy viewing HD video with full impact, right away. No need to connect HD Everio to your TV each time you want to watch. And since it supports standard-definition video, still images and music data too, count on it to entertain you
Bundled PC Software
Easy File Management
Everio MediaBrowser has a calendar type graphical interface that displays thumbnail images of your recorded videos and stills, overlaid on the date they were taken. So it's clear to see exactly when you took what scene. You can easily switch between "Daily" and "Show all" displays. And with built-in filter functions, you can instantly narrow down your selection to just videos, just stills, and so on
Easy Playback
Data files residing on your Everio can be played back on your PC. Just double-click on the scene you want to view, and playback starts. Full-screen viewing is also possible
Simple Editing
Simple cut edits are possible while viewing the playback image. Just push the Movie Edit button and select "from here to there" using the scroll bars to easily cut out unnecessary scenes
Easy "Share and Carry" Operation
Exporting to iTunes, uploading to YouTube, and burning to DVD disc... all of these "share and carry" operations are simplified to the extreme. Just press the exclusive function button, select the file you want to use, and follow a few simple steps shown on the computer screen. You're done before you know it
Decomotion Setting
A fun-filled extra for YouTube uploading. This function lets you add eyecatching moving frames to the videos you upload. Now you can show off your memories with an added touch of originality