reganscherencel wrote:So you can buy these new all day long for $179 which includes a full factory warranty. Is a refurb with no warrany for $50 less really worth the gamble?

It does have a warranty - the same 90 day factory warranty as a brand new model. Yeah, 90 days is a little short, so I use my credit card which automatically extends the warranty of any electronics to one year.

Refurbs? That never bothered me. All the refurbs I've ever purchased (which is a goodly amount) were indistinguishable from new.

LINCAR4 wrote:Prices on these cards have dropped so much that I don't erase them when I fill them up and copy them to an external HD, I just archive and store them in a safe place. I figure if I used my old DV recorder, the price for 4-5 good quality tapes is around the price of one of these sd cards and I might as well just keep them and buy a new one. Who knows if the HD that you put your videos and pictures on won't crash. Better to have the original in my opinion.

I would be wary of using the flash memory cards as your long term storage. Flash memory stores the data as electrical charges in microscopic NAND gates or cells. The problem is these tiny electrical charges decay over time, and the decay is accelerated by high temperatures. Most manufactures only guarantee the data retention of their flash memory for 5 to 10 years. Here you can see Kingston only guarantees for up to 10 years:
http://media.kingston.com/pdfs/FlashMemGuide.pdf
Samsung also only guarantees 10 years:
http://www.samsung.com/global/business/semiconductor/products/flash/downloads/applicationnote/app_nand.pdf
I've talked to Sandisk customer support and they said they will only guarantee data retention for 5 years.

Here is a NASA report where they say the expected data retention for most flash memory is 10-20 years. But they conducted a high temperature test with Samsung flash memory at 125 degrees Celsius and it failed in only 100 hours.
http://trs-new.jpl.nasa.gov/dspace/bitstream/2014/41262/1/09-9.pdf

So if you plan on storing your flash memory cards for more than 5-10 years, I'd be a little careful.

Bought one last time. Very disappointed with scheduled 15 minute battery life. Unless you are by an outlet not very useful.

Since Konica Minolta doesn't make an image stabilized lens, and the description says the camera is stabilized, I'm guessing the stabilization is in the camera.

sdc100 wrote:Actually, no. I bought a Samsung camcorder from Woot for only $50 more and it has stereo sound, good still photography (with flash!) and optical stabilization, in addition to all (?) of the features here. Simply put, stereo sound and still photography are not deluxe features in an HD camera. Even $29 eBay palmcorders have a still mode. Only the Flip lacks it. Ironically, JVC's own Picsio palmcorders has a 5 mp still mode so its omission here is inexcusable.

So, you paid 40% more and got stereo sound and less zoom? 8-) Just having fun with ya. Because of a Woot-addiction, I own both this and the Samsung unit. The still pics from the Samsung are no better than my crackberry phone (read - fuzzy). It's a feature that doesn't produce a good result, so what good is it really? An upside to this JVC is that it is incredibly compact and light for a 40x zoom digital video camera. It's notably lighter and smaller than the Samsung camera. My Samsung does not make time lapse videos. This JVC Everio does. That said, the Samsung comes with much better software.

Every time I see this deal, I get excited. Then I go read a couple of reviews, and am reminded why these are so cheap. Pass.

Bought one of these during the last offering and have used it for several 'events'
1)took it to Ireland in December: great (coat)pocket sized camcorder, could use it pretty much all day without running out of battery, but could see that if I was shooting A LOT it would be handy to have a backup.
2)birth of grand-daughter. Worked super well in ambient light and good sound quality
3)construction of addition to house. Put it on the tripod and set it up for 1 frame per second... great time lapse of the process as it happened.
That said, my only 'complaint' is lack of a viewfinder as I find it easier to hold it steady up against my face that way, especially if you are using long shots. But with it being so small, that was obviously not an option.
Over all, an enthusiastic thumbs up.

PS... note to self... if you check a link for a previous woot MAKE SURE YOU COME BACK TO THE CURRENT ONE BEFORE YOU POST!!

dedicateddad wrote:Seems to me that the BEST option is to sign up for some online service and pay the fees for permanent storage -- just make damn sure you don't miss a payment and lose all your crap!!

That is definitely an option but realize that several cloud storage services have gone under in the last couple years and I don't know what happens to the data when that occurs.

TSOG wrote:So, those others have the 40x zoom?

Read the original post I was replying to (and quoted). It said, "It seems to me that those who hate it are expecting too much, downgrading it because it lacks features of units twice the price." In other words, the writer said that you have to pay twice the price to get features that this JVC lacks. My reply simply pointed out that you don't need to pay twice the price to get such features. And that those features are pretty basic, and not luxuries. Where did you get the idea that I was comparing features one-to-one?

therealjrn wrote:No still shots with this camera.

But one of the reviews said that you can capture stills from the video with the software.

Sold out every color except black!

marktheshark4 wrote:Would this camcorder be good for skiing?

Probably not since there'll be lots of movement from you and your subjects, resulting in camera shake. You'll be better off with a camera with optical stabilization. A camcorder capable of 60fps will also capture fast moving subjects better. In addition, all that white snow can be challenging for lesser cameras and camcorders, throwing off the auto-exposure and auto-focus (which relies on contrast). That's why some cameras have a snow mode.

dcphotos wrote:I'm looking for a camcorder in this style and price range
[...]
What I need is something good in very low light. I don't care about long range zoom as I know it will have a small maximum aperture zoomed out. I want a fast lens that can take filters. Any advice out there? I want to be able to add a remote mic as well.

Unfortunately, you're not going to find something witht those features in this price range. This camcorder is JVC's cheapest model, and is best compared with the cheapest point-and-shoot digital cameras. Like those cameras, you won't be able to add filters or external accessories. Be prepared to spend about $150+ more.

picked one up a few weeks ago and havn't really played much with it. I shot some video and it displayed very nice on my TV.

So far I'm very happy with this camera.. I believe I'll need a bigger battery though and I replaced the memory card with a bigger one. It's very small and weights almost nothing.

copprtop99 wrote:Except that the &*%%*& DSLRs don't have an articulating screen (you know, swivel and turn so you can be in front of the camera and actually see what is being recorded).. escapades usually have yourself in the video... yes, I know the Canon t3i and a few others do, but then you are paying 8-10x the price.

Consider getting a Samsung digital camera with DualView. It features LCD screens in front of the camera as well as the rear. I've seen some models for as little as $89 but I don't know the video specs. The higher end DualViews definitely do HD video. I beleive Woot has sold at least one Samsung DualView in the past.

A BIG plus for Samsung digital cameras is that you can pause (and zoom) while recording video. That's a feature that this JVC camcorder, and many more expensive still cameras and camcorders don't have.

speed0423 wrote:Does this camera allow you to take still shots or is it just a camcorder used for video?

No, and that is one of its most egregious flaws. If you plan to take still shots, get a digital still camera with good video capabilities like the higher end Panasonic Lumixes (make sure it uses H.264 and not MJPEG) or Samsungs. One of the Lumixes Woot sold for about $150 even did 1080 video, which is higher resolution than this JVC camcorder.

In fact, most camcorders, including ones in this price range and even less (i.e. $29 Chinese camcorders you can find on eBay) will do still photos. So all you have to do is get a comparable camcorder from another company. Woot sold a Samsung camcorder for abotu $50 more that not only took still photos, but even had a flash and other still camera features like an auto-timer.

I have the SD version of this and the quality is great. I paid just a bit higher than the refurb price here. You aren't gonna be using this for making professional movies so really why review it like you are. It's like wanting an SLR and commenting on a point and shoot that the quality isn't the same.

Dozer11 wrote:the cold could have bad side effects on the functionality of the JVC Camcorder.

Yep. Both the sensor and LCD screen are temperature sensitive, and won't work in cold temperatures. This is especially true of LCDs. The "L" in "LCD" stands for "liquid." Basically, the display is a bunch of crystals suspended in a liquid that move in response to electricity. When the crystal is turned parallel to your eyes, you see a pixel. When it's perpendicular to your eyes, you see nothing. When it gets cold, the liquid thickens, making it hard for the crystals to move, making the display useless.

SEE Vendor: CS@BESTBATT.COM

2-Larger Capacity Batteries with
External Charger can be had from:
CS@BESTBATT.COM

PN:BN-VG121U LI-ION RECHARGEABLE BATTERY
W/ CHARGER COMBO FOR JVC ENERIO CAMCORDERS
MODEL NO: GZ-HM50 SERIES
~$50.00 plus Shipping

New BN-VG121U replacement Li-Ion rechargeable battery & Charger Combo.

* Rated with 3000mAh, the battery comes with 8cm cable for external connection to DC-IN slot.

* There are four LED indicators on battery, by which you can check the power level (battery juice) any time.

* The charger is a world-traveler one that accepts AC 100v~240v and Auto DC. It charges either JVC original battery or any third-party products.

* The battery can charged either by the included charger or with a standard Type B Mini USB cord (not included) through any USB port.

Features
Premium Li-Ion cell
Absolutely no memory effect so that you can charge battery at anytime
Low impedance battery design
Comes with charger kit
LED indicators on battery to show power level
12 months warranty

RM

In for three. That way I will have one in the glovebox of all my vehicles for those Rodney King moments.

I really liked my JVC mini DV. It crapped out about two years ago and I've considered this woot! the last time it was on. Decided to finally pull the trigger. By the way, my old camera had 40X optical and it's awesome! Almost more than you need. In for one.

My grandmother is 95 and doesn't do the internet. A DVD is a stretch for her.

ETA: This was in response to the question "why don't you just upload video online".

venden productos en argentina??

luquitas94 wrote:venden productos en argentina??

Por favor ver aquí.

TSOG wrote:But one of the reviews said that you can capture stills from the video with the software.

That's hardly a selling point since you can do frame captures with ANY video file, regardless of source or machine. In VLC Media Player, simply use VIDEO->SNAPSHOT. In Media Player Classic, press CTRL-8.

In other words, you don't need their software. As long as you have the CODEC to load the file, you can use virtually any media player. In fact, you can simply play the video and do a simple PRTSCRN in Windows to capture everything you see onn your monitor, and then crop (or use Snipping Tool in Win 7). JVC's approach, like that of the Flip, is a cop out and has nothing to do with the merits of its machine or software.

The problem with this approach is that you lose the immediate feedback of true photography since you have to return to your computer to make the snapshot. That means not knowing if you need to re-take the shot. And it means highly inferior shots since the resolution is lower and many auto-sensing algorithms aren't used when recording videos, i.e. multi-point exposure.

rrsuthy wrote:My grandmother is 95 and doesn't do the internet. A DVD is a stretch for her.

ETA: This was in response to the question "why don't you just upload video online".

Then a palmcorder like the Flip, Vado, Kodak, etc is best. Much easier to hold for older hands and a minimum of buttons to contend with. Turn on and press record. The only selling point of this JVC is the 40x zoom and few 95 y/o need that. I'd even say to choose a NON-rechageable model like the Kodak zi6. Most older people find it easier to replace AA batteries than recharge the unit. Alkalines also retain their energy for 7-8 years whereas LiIon battery packs self-discharge within a year, and even months. Something to consider for people who only use these for annual celebrations.

I was the volunteer tech advisor for a senior center (where many clients didn't even speak english) and the palmcorders won hands down over camcorders for usability. Many also loved being able to put those models in their pockets and purses which you can't do with camcorders.

konami code

Agent019 wrote:I have the SD version of this and the quality is great. I paid just a bit higher than the refurb price here. You aren't gonna be using this for making professional movies so really why review it like you are. It's like wanting an SLR and commenting on a point and shoot that the quality isn't the same.

I read through all the posts and no one reviewed this basic no-frills JVC as if it was for "making professional movies" or comparing it to an SLR. In fact, I specifically compared it to point-and-shoots, and even cited specific Samsung and Panasonic models, none of which were SLRs. All the features I said that this lacked were basic and not luxuries, i.e. stereo sound and still photos.

compmikey wrote:So, you paid 40% more and got stereo sound and less zoom? 8-) Just having fun with ya. Because of a Woot-addiction, I own both this and the Samsung unit. The still pics from the Samsung are no better than my crackberry phone (read - fuzzy). It's a feature that doesn't produce a good result, so what good is it really? An upside to this JVC is that it is incredibly compact and light for a 40x zoom digital video camera. It's notably lighter and smaller than the Samsung camera. My Samsung does not make time lapse videos. This JVC Everio does. That said, the Samsung comes with much better software.

You are talking about a completely different Samsung camcorder. This is clear since your Samsung doesn't do time lapse videos. My Samsung camcorder has that feature. See the last bullet from Woot's description below. And my Samsung has 1080i as well as 60fps -- which are vast improvements over this JVC, not to mention the superior lens, touchscreen and auto-features. In other words, my Samsung has many more superior features, and not just the few you mention.

And it takes excellent still photos that compare well with other 5 meg point-and-shoots. Rarely fuzzy given the optical stabilization and built-in flash. You asked, what good is it? Well, the quality is good enough that tourists won't have to drag out BOTH a camcorder and a still camera on their trips.

From Woot's description:

- Full HD (1920x1080/60i or 30p) video recording
- 1/4.5” CMOS imaging sensor yields impressive light sensitivity to capture full HD video at 1920x1080 lines of resolution and 4.7 megapixel still 2880x1620 images
- The Schneider Kreuznach Varioplan-HD lens 37mm wide-angle lens is specially designed to produce clear and vivid images by correcting chromatic aberration and distortion. Unlike other camcorders offering a typical angle of view of 40-50mm, a wide angle view of 37mm provides wider and richer images from the same distance.
[...]
- Time Lapse recording feature uses selective frame capture to record over an extended period of time so that you can see the effects of long term recording condensed into a shorter time frame. Imagine seeing the slow passage of clouds through the sky or a sunset over the water in only a few minutes.

sdc100 wrote:

I thought the Queen's Guard weren't allowed to move or smile? Fail.

anamya wrote:I thought the Queen's Guard weren't allowed to move or smile? Fail.

If you saw where the woman's hand was, you'd understand why he's smiling and moving.

sdc100 wrote:I read through all the posts and no one reviewed this basic no-frills JVC as if it was for "making professional movies" or comparing it to an SLR. In fact, I specifically compared it to point-and-shoots, and even cited specific Samsung and Panasonic models, none of which were SLRs. All the features I said that this lacked were basic and not luxuries, i.e. stereo sound and still photos.

I'm in the market for an inexpensive camcorder, and all your posts have helped me define what I need to be looking for. Thanks sdc100!

therealjrn wrote:I'm in the market for an inexpensive camcorder, and all your posts have helped me define what I need to be looking for. Thanks sdc100!

No problem. Please drop me a line if you have any questions. Have fun shopping!

Hmm Just bought mine a couple of days ago can't wait for it to come home. Hopefully it'll be useful
I'm thinking of buying an extra battery for this camcorder since many users have stated it has such short battery life.

http://www.bestbatt.com/JVC-BN-VG121U-Battery-Pack-p/bbbnvg121.htm

Has anyone bought from this site? or this item?

Any ideas?

im new here, & want to buy this item. idk how to purchase it, can anyone tell me?

Anyone know if the camera supports Eye-Fi?

DennisWKam wrote:Sorry, but we are unable to offer an item once the sale has ended at midnight or sold out. Keep checking back though, especially during the next Woot-Off.

Here's the FAQ if you want to read up on how stuff works around here.

could you guys give me a notification when there's offers on camcorder? espcially a cheap one like this one.

Anyone else get their's and the power cord won't charge the Camcorder? Can only seem to get it to work via USB charging. Any ideas?