SimplyDV News

Canon's "fabulous" Vixia HF100 AVCHD reviewed

Mon, 05 May 2008 11:15:00 +0100

Canon's much-awaited HF100 (known as Vixia HF100 in the USA and Japan) is not just a truly solid-state memory card camcorder but one that produces superb quality high definition video and has all the inputs and outputs we associate with a serious camcorder. Can anything beat it? Find out in our exclusive new review.

Apple iMac range gets faster processors and graphics capability

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:53:15 +0100

Apple has announced a major bump to its range of all-in-one iMacs with the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors and the most powerful graphics ever available in any iMac model, the company has just announced.

With UK prices starting at £799, the iMac includes faster processors with 6MB L2 cache and a faster 1066MHz front-side bus across the whole line plus 2GB memory as standard in most models. The 24-inch iMac now offers a 3.06 HHz Intel processor and the high performance NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS graphics as options.

Tiny Panasonic SDR-S7 gets the SimplyDV review treatment

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:50:00 +0100

You might have noticed just how many small, pocket-sized video cameras and camcorders are coming to market these days, not least because the major manufacturers are in direct competition with others who are including increasingly-better video camera modules in their latest mobile phones. It all begs the question as to why you should in fact bother with a camcorder when you have pretty much everything you need in a single device.

Panasonic's latest offering is the top-pocket-sized SDR-S7; whilst only a standard definition camera, it's still a great looking device that is capable of making sufficiently good MPEG-2 recordings onto high capacity SD memory cards. Perhaps its most outstanding feature, though, is that it looks really cute.

Canon unveils 2 new professional HDV camcorders

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:15:00 +0100

Canon today unveiled two new additions to its high-end High Definition XL series camcorder range: the XL H1S, designed for studio-based professional broadcast cameramen, and the XL H1A, which the company describes as being perfect for independent filmmakers and fieldwork cameramen. Recording High Definition Video (HDV) to tape, both models share a 1/3” 1.67 Megapixel 3CCD system which provides HD 1080i image capture.

Canon's HV30 HDV camcorder reviewed in the latest SimplyDV Podcast

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:00:00 +0100

The latest 30-minute episode of the increasingly popular SimplyDV audio podcasts provides an insight into the new-look SimplyDV website you're looking at right now. Also discussed are my thoughts on the new Canon HV30 HDV camcorder as well as an overview of two new standard definition camcorders from Panasonic - the SDR-H280 "Hybrid" HDD/SD cam and the SDR-SW20 "shockproof, waterproof" SD card cam. Also under the spotlight are Aiptek's PowerDV AHD200 high definition "pocket-cam" and Pinnacle's freebie editing application - VideoSpin. My "Pick of the Month" 3rd party software utility is MPEG Streamclip from Squared5.com.

MediaChance unveils EditStudio 6 Pro video editing and compression software

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:30:00 +0100

Media content creation and editing tools company MediaChance has sent us details of the latest update to a video editing application that, I have to admit, has so far eluded us - EditStudio 6 Pro.

It's described by the company as offering advanced editing, MPEG encoding and even subtitle editing plus a whole load of other stuff that will find a user base among total newbies and experienced editors alike.

The Canon HV30 Reviewed: A Touch of Deja Vu?

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:30:00 +0100

Back at the end of 2007 when Canon showed us the HV30 for the first time, the unanimous reaction was that it appeared to be identical to the HV20 in every way except the body colour. Surely not!

The previous year's model boasted a 2.96 megapixel, 1920x1080 True HD CMOS image sensor, Instant AF, 10x Optical Zoom lens with Super Range OIS (Optical Image Stabilisation), DIGICDV electronic image processing, a 25P cinema-style shooting mode, HDMI connector, LED video light and flash, an all-import AV analogue video and audio input, microphone input and advanced accessory shoe. It also offered a choice of recording and playback in HDV (High Definition) as well DV modes. In addition to all that, the incoming HV30 sports......... a black body colour. Now, hold on a minute - are we missing something here?

Sony debuts "world's smallest HD Handycam" - the HDR-TG3

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 12:30:00 +0100

And now it's Sony's turn to bring us the smallest, lightest, slimmest mobile-phone-sized HD camcorder that's the "perfect partner for nights out or weekends away". The new Sony HDR-TG3 is claimed by its maker to be "tough enough to keep up with today's active lifestyles - whether you're on the piste or paragliding". It'll be interesting to see just how good it performs as a camcorder, too!

Welcome to the all-new SimplyDV website!

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:01:00 +0100

It's been some time in the making - in fact, many will say long overdue - but at last we've managed to shake out the old and come up with a new-look site that is ready to reflect the changing face of digital video for camcorder users. There's more to be added to the site in the coming weeks as we move the emphasis to keep up with people's desire to shoot on solid-state formats and to share their movie projects online. We hope you like it!

Apple to patch iMovie for Panasonic SD9/HS9 AVCHD Camcorder Clips

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 10:45:00 +0000

We understand that Apple has informed Panasonic that it's about to put out an update patch to the current edition of iMovie '08 in order that the application will be able to handle files created by the HDC-SD9 and (presumably) its sibling product, the HDC-HS9 as well. This issue has been a subject of considerable debate in the last few weeks, with users of Panasonic's HDC-SD9 AVCHD camcorder having experienced problems getting their clips from the camcorder into Apple's video editing applications - iMovie, Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro. It isn't clear whether this patch will also affect FCE and FCP, but we'll have to wait and see.

Corel announces Ulead VideoStudio 11.5 Plus update

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Corel has announced Ulead VideoStudio 11.5 Plus, the latest version of its award-winning consumer video editing and DVD authoring software. VideoStudio 11.5 Plus is designed to combine the benefits of VideoStudio 11 Plus and the VideoStudio 11 Plus Power Pack in one box. It now includes support for the latest HD formats including Blu-ray, HD DVD and AVCHD for sharing on disc, on a home/workplace media network or over the web.

Another SimplyDV Podcast now online? Fantastic!

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 17:0:00 +0000

Is there a reason why a prominent camcorder brand would prefer you not to have access to good, fair and objective reviews of their latest products? We consider why this might be and look at how this impacts on other considerations you might wish to make when deciding on which new camcorder to buy. Also in this podcast we look at VoltaicHD, a great piece of low-cost software designed to make life easier for AVCHD camcorder owners wishing to import and edit their clips in their favourite Windows PC and non-Intel Apple Mac video software.

Panasonic introduces its "Final Standard profile" Blu-ray player

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 12:15:00 +0000

With news that will interest users of the company's range of high definition camcorders, such as its AVCHD models, Panasonic has launched the DMP-BD30, its new "Final Standard Profile" Blu-ray Player. Not only does it provide a HD networking control and a Viera Link interface, but it houses a slot for SDHC cards and comes boxed with the 'Oscar Winning' Ratatouille and Cars Blu-ray discs.

MAGIX adds AVCHD support in new Movie Edit Pro Plus

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:15:00 +0000

MAGIX has announced the latest its line of entry-level, yet surprisingly sophisticated, video editing and export software packages: Classic and Plus.

MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 14 is described by the company as being "the perfect solution for beginners as well as more experienced users". Designed to facilitate effortless video capture, straightforward editing, a generous range of 3D effects, a large selection of titles and fades and the addition of brilliant soundtracks, a first-time editing project can then be easily burned to an interactive CD/DVD or even exported to the web or mobile player. Now upload your videos from Movie Edit Pro 14 to YouTube. In keeping with market trends, the application also includes a "direct to YouTube" interface, too

The Plus version of the application now supports import and editing of AVCHD high definition in addition to the full roster of other video formats - including HDV.in

2008 Camcorders Considered in Latest Podcast

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:40:00 +0000

In this first SimplyDV Podcast for 2008, Colin talks about the new Panasonic HDC-SD9 and HS9 AVCHD models and mulls over the new camcorder offerings from Panasonic, Canon, Sony and JVC for the coming season. He also reflects on the increasing number of new consumer camcorders that now offer full specification high definition recording and asks the question "Will 2008 really be tape-based consumer digital video's last year?".

Apple unveils "ultra-thin, ultra-portable" MacBook Air notebook

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:05:00 +0000

For once, the rumour-mongers were absolutely right. Apple has announced an ultra-thin MacBook notebook computer which it claims to be the thinnest notebook ever. The MacBook Air was unveiled at the MacWorld 2008 Expo in San Francisco by Apple's CEO, Steve Jobs in his customary first-day keynote speech.

Time Capsule: Apple's automated wireless backup for Macs

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:00:00 +0000

Apple has used the Keynote Speech by its CEO, Steve Jobs, at the MacWorld 2008 Expo in San Francisco to unveil its new automated, wireless, backup system for Apple Mac devices called "Time Capsule". The £199 (US $299) device works with Time Machine to provide fully automated backups of all connected Macs.

Apple unveils "Fastest Mac Ever" - Mac Pro with 8 Processor Cores as standard

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:00:00 +0000

Exactly one week ahead of CEO Steve Jobs' Keynote speech at MacWorld Expo in San Francisco, Apple has introduced the new Mac Pro with eight processor cores and a new system architecture that delivers up to twice the performance of its predecessor*. The new Mac Pro combines two of Intel’s new 45 nanometre Quad-Core Xeon processors running up to 3.2GHz, powerful new graphics and up to 4TB of internal storage to offer the ideal system for creative professionals, 3D digital content creators and scientists.

Pinnacle Video Transfer - direct to iPod, PSP video transfer via USB 2.0

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 17:30:00 +0000

Pinnacle has announced Pinnacle Video Transfer, a small, portable device designed to record analogue video onto any USB 2.0 storage device without using a PC. At the touch of a button, users with little or no technical expertise can immediately begin recording from a TV, DVD player, PVR, camcorder or set-top box directly to their Apple iPod Video, iPod nano (3rd generation), iPod classic, Sony PSP, Sony PSP slim, USB flash drive or USB hard drive.

Shoot, burn and share - thanks to Canon's new DVD Burner, the DW-100

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 17:00:00 +0000

Canon has announced the DW-100, a new standalone DVD burner that is compatible with its entire flash camcorder range – the HF10, HF100, FS11 and FS100 – as well as the Canon HG10 HDD camcorder, which was voted the SimplyDV Camcorder of the year 2007. Claimed by Canon to be "ideal for sharing and archiving movies", the DW-100 allows users to burn AVCHD and Standard Definition movies to ordinary 12cm discs without the need for a computer. Effortlessly easy to use, it also doubles as an AVCHD disc player when connected to a compatible camcorder.

MiniDV clings on at Canon thanks to two new 2008 models

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:25:00 +0000

Canon launches the new MD200 series – a range of accessible MiniDV camcorders that introduce Canon’s new, powerful Advanced Zoom. Advanced Zoom is designed to combine the quality of a genuine Canon video lens with the power of the DIGIC DV processor, resulting in zoom ranges that extend as high as 45x magnification.
Each camcorder offers true widescreen recording, easy and intuitive operation, and the advantage of Canon’s Quick Start feature. With a number of models on offer, the MD200 series is intended to cater for a wide variety of needs – from 1 Megapixel CCD recording to camcorders that feature a microphone input connection.

Two new Standard Def DVD Camcorders from Canon for 2008

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:15:00 +0000

Canon announces the launch of a new direct-to-DVD camcorder line up featuring its new Advanced Zoom system. The DC300 series combines the ultra-convenience of straight-to-DVD recording with the most powerful zoom – up to 45x – of any Canon camcorder yet. Claimed by the company to provide crisp, clear image quality – from wide to telephoto – Advanced Zoom is designed to open up new possibilities for moviemakers shooting sports, wildlife and other distant subjects straight to disc.

Canon introduces dual Flash Memory recording to its standard def camcorder range

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:10:00 +0000

Canon claims to have revitalised the Standard Definition (SD) market with the launch of a range of camcorders that record movies to flash memory. The 1 Megapixel Canon Digital Video Camcorders FS11 and FS100 are not only compact and power efficient – they are also graced with a stunning new sense of style, according the maker. In fact, these designer camcorders are claimed by Canon to be the ideal solution for all types of moviemaker: from teens in the park, to office workers on a night out and grandparents on holiday. Thanks to solid state memory, they offer the kind of storage capacity previously only seen in Hard Disk Drive (HDD) models, yet are housed in a body no larger than the size of a family digital camera.

Two Flash Memory camcorders from Canon "take filming to new heights"

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:05:00 +0000

Canon expands its High Definition (HD) camcorder range with the announcement of two groundbreaking flash memory-based models. The compact Canon HD Camcorders HF10 and HF100 will appeal to users seeking maximum mobility and the chance to shoot High Definition footage in challenging new environments. The HF10 features a new Dual Flash Memory system, whilst the HF100 offers the convenience of shooting straight to memory card.

Canon reveals the HV30 - its successor to the HV20 HDV Camcorder

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Canon has added a new star to its award-winning HD camcorder range with the launch of the Canon HD Camcorder HV30. Building on the success of the bestselling HV20, the HV30 improves on its predecessor with a host of refinements designed to make it easier to use.

Samsung releases new flash-based 1080p HD camcorder

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:30:00 +0000

Samsung Electronics supplements its camcorder offerings with the addition of the SC-HMX20C Progressive HD flash-based camcorder, just announced at the CES 2008 convention in Las Vegas, USA. Featuring Full HD and a 1080p mode with (for the US market, at least) 30 frames-per-second recording capability, the SC-HMX20C’s flash-based design is intended to deliver compactness and ease of use. Thanks to an included docking station, users have the ability to not only charge the SC-HMX20C but also to utilise the HDMI input and component connectivity in order to easily view home movies directly on an HDTV.

Announcing the "world's fastest" 32GB Class 6 SDHC card - Panasonic

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 13:00:00 +0000

Panasonic today used its presence at the CES 2008 convention in Las Vegas to announce the development of what it claims to be the world’s first 32 Gigabyte (GB) SD High Capacity (SDHC) Memory Card with Class 6 speed specification and claimed to be perfect for recording High Definition video. With the ability to store up to eight hours of High Definition video, the 32GB SDHC Memory Card prototype will be showcased at the 2008 International CES in Las Vegas from January 7-10 at the Panasonic booth #9405.

Panasonic's SD9 and HS9 AVCHD Double-whammy!

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 19:05:00 +0000

Two brand new high definition AVCHD camcorders from Panasonic - the HDC-SD9 (SDHC card) and HDC-HS9 (Hybrid SDHC/HDD) - offer 1080/25p cinema mode, 5.1 surround sound, Advanced-OIS and Face Clear mode. SimplyDV has EXCLUSIVE reviews of both these new models right now! Amazed? You ought to be!

Announcing the SimplyDV Camcorder Of The Year - 2007!

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:30:00 +0000

Roll up for the very first annual SimplyDV Camcorder Of The Year Award. The competition has been stiff during 2007 - but the judges have made their decision. And the winner is...

New 8GB SANDISK EXTREME III SDHC card unveiled

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 13:00:00 +0100

More capacity and fast transfer speeds are the chief benefits of the SanDisk Extreme III 8GB SDHC (SD High-Capacity) flash memory card, which was introduced today by SanDisk Corporation. The 8GB SDHC card will be packaged with a SanDisk MicroMate USB 2.0 Reader - a US$20 value - so that users have a one-stop solution for capturing, storing and transferring their images.

Apple to Ship Mac OS X Leopard on October 26

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 14:00:00 +0100

Apple today announced that Mac OS X Leopard will go on sale on Friday, October 26 at 6:00 p.m. at Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorised Resellers, and that Apple’s online store is now accepting pre-orders. Leopard is packed with more than 300 new features and introduces a brand new desktop with Stacks, a new way to easily access files from the Dock; a redesigned Finder that lets users quickly browse and share files between multiple Macs; Quick Look, a new way to instantly see files without opening an application; Spaces, an intuitive new feature used to create groups of applications and instantly switch between them; and Time Machine, an effortless way to automatically back up everything on a Mac.

Nero ShowTime included with Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD1000 "Full HD" cam

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:00:00 +0100

Nero, a leading digital media technology company and primarily associated with the popular DVD creation software titles, today announced the inclusion of Nero ShowTime with the world’s smallest and lightest Full HD Movie Camera. The new SANYO Xacti VPC-HD1000, which records and plays back in Full HD (1920x1080), will be bundled with Nero ShowTime to offer what the two companies claim will be smooth playback of full-specification High Definition video clips recorded in addition to other customisable options.

New Pinnacle "iPod friendly" hardware-based video capture for Mac announced

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 11:00:00 +0100

Making a rare foray into Apple Mac territory but, no doubt, keen to capitalise on the video-for-iPod market, Pinnacle has announced Pinnacle Video Capture for Mac, an "affordably-priced" USB 2.0 device designed to make it easy to capture video in an iPod-native format from any analogue source, be it camcorder, set-top box, game console or VCR. With the new product, users can transfer home videos, record TV shows or movies and even record their gameplay from a game console and automatically add the content to iTunes to enjoy it on their Mac, iPod, iPhone, or even Apple TV.

Adobe announces Premiere Elements 4.0 and Photoshop Elements 6.0

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:00:00 +0100

A much-expected announcement came today from Adobe in the form of news about the immediate availability of Adobe Premiere Elements 4.0, a major upgrade to its best-selling consumer video-editing software. Available for Windows, Adobe Premiere Elements is a consumer version of its hugely influential Premiere Pro package and is designed to offer easy and flexible ways to create home movies in minutes, and then share them on DVDs, via mobile devices or upload them directly to YouTube and other social networking sites. According to Adobe, Premiere Elements includes a "wealth of new functionality", including an Organiser to help find and sort video clips, one-click movie themes and an improved easy-to-use interface.

Although the announcement makes mention of how users can edit "high definition movies" and offers the ability to export to Blu-ray DVD discs, the information we've received doesn't make specific reference to Premiere 4.0's handling of tapeless AVCHD formats. We're on the case!

Panasonic's HDC-SD5 AVCHD camcorder - our fullest review to date!

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 18:15:00 +0100

It's the most talked-about camcorder of the year. Panasonic's 3CCD palm sized camcorder provides full-specification 1920 x 1080i high definition video recording and playback from tiny - yet high capacity - SD memory cards. It uses the revolutionary new HD compression system called AVCHD and gives superb reproduction when displayed on not only HD Ready television screens when connected using the state-of-the-art HDMI cables but also on standard definition television displays, too.

Hitachi comes up with "world's first" Blu-ray camcorder

Thu, 02 Aug 2007 18:30:00 +0100

Hitachi has announced that it is to offer the world's first Full-HD 1920 x 1808 pixel camcorders capable of recording onto Blu-ray discs - up to 60 mins with the CMOS-chipped DZ-BD and DZ-BH models

Claiming "lifelike image reproduction and rich, immersive color" resulting from Hitachi’s 5.3 megapixel CMOS image sensor and HD quality 12-element lens system, the DZ-BD70A is capable of recording high definition video to Blu-ray discs and comes with an SD card slot for storing digital still photos at 4.32 mega pixel max resolution.

Additionally, the company is offering a "hybrid" variant of this mode, the flagship DZ-BD7HA camcorder, which provides the Blu-ray disc recording capability along with a 30 gigabyte (GB) built-in Hard Disk Drive (HDD) that can record approximately four hours of 1920x1080 high definition video (HX mode) or up to eight hours of 1440x1080 high definition video (HS mode).

Announcing Canon's "incredibly small" AVCHD baby - the HG10

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 13:30:00 +0100

And now it's Canon's turn to bring us another tiny HDD recording AVCHD camcorder - giving us full 1920 HD, CMOS, 25P, shock sensor, 40GB HDD, mic in, headphone out and more.

Canon has announced what it claims to be the world's smallest AVCHD high definition camcorder - the new HG10 . Using a 40GB internal Hard Disk Drive (HDD) to capture up to 15 hours of HD movie clips, the equivalent of recording onto 28 DVDs, this new model is intended to complement the company's existing High Def products. We have a Europe news exclusive!

Panasonic to offer new Pro High Speed 8GB SD card

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 09:30:00 +0100

In a perfectly timed announcement that coincides with the unveiling of two new HDC-SD5 and HDC-SX5 AVCHD camcorders, Panasonic has revealed that it is to offer a new 8GB Pro High Speed SD Memory Card. The card, designated RP-SDV08GE1K, which facilitates both high capacity and high speed read/write of data, will become available during September, 2007 with an estimated European retail price of EUR129.00.

New "Full-HD" 3CCD AVCHD cams from Panasonic - HDC-SD5 and HDC-SX5

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 09:00:00 +0100

Today, Panasonic has announced two new AVCHD models, the HDC-SD5 SD card recording model, and the HDC-SX5, which adds a DVD recording option to the SD5's features. Both cams have 3 CCDs and offer the full 1920 x 1080i resolution high definition recording and playback using the increasingly popular AVCHD format which is based on the MPEG4-AVC/H.264 compression system and is designed for tapeless products.

We review Panasonic's latest SDR-H250 "hybrid" HDD/SD cam

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:00:00 +0100

The SDR-H250 is the latest in a line of tapeless camcorders that's very much aimed at the home video user looking for a similar ease of video shooting as digital stills cameras provide for stills photography.

Not only does it have three 1/6" CCDs capable of generating impressively good widescreen video pictures and digital still pictures, but it enables the recording and playback of both to a choice of either a 30 Gigabyte internal Hard Disk Drive or SD card. The company provides a 512 MB SD card with the product itself, but with the cost of SD memory cards now at rock-bottom prices, you'll be able to stock up with up to 4GB of high capacity SDHC (Class 6) cards very cheaply. And you needn't worry about how to make DVD copies of your clips, either; Panasonic has bundled a CD containing an application that enables the creation of an instant DVD copy at the single press of a button.

So, is the SDR-H250 the perfect tapeless choice for the complete video newbie?

The new-improved SimplyDV Forums are ready and waiting!

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 18:15:00 +0100

One of the reasons why SimplyDV has been so popular with owners, and would-be owners, of camcorders since its inception early this decade is its user-friendly, no-nonsense, everybody-is-welcome forums.

It's always been our policy that there's no such thing as a silly question; choosing a new camcorder can be a daunting procedure for somebody who is a complete newbie, and the fact that such users have always been made welcome is one of the forums' strengths. And with the choice of videomaking hardware and software being as confusing as it's ever been, that's the way it's going to stay!

The forums have been offline for a couple of months, as you might be aware. This was the result of complex web server problems. However, we're back!

It doesn't matter whether you're a complete newbie with a basic question or an experienced user with good practical advice to impart - you're very welcome over on the SimplyDV Bulletin Board right now!

Matsushita agrees JVC sell-off terms with Kenwood owner

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 10:50:00 +0100

After months of speculation about the future of the struggling Victor Company of Japan (JVC) that stretches back to the beginning of 2007, financial sources in Japan revealed in late June that the struggling television, video and audio systems maker has finally agreed to merge with the Japanese high-tech in-car audio manufacturer, the Kenwood Corporation. What impact will this have on the JVC brand - or on its commitment to the camcorder market in particular?

Shooting and editing HDV discussed in latest podcast

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 13:00:00 +0100

In the latest edition of the SimplyDV Digital Video Podcast, Colin discusses the pros and cons of the Canon HV20 versus the Sony SR7 HDV camcorders, and explains which of the two he favours. He also provides an update on importing and editing AVCHD high definition camcorder clips. Not only does he have a moan at reviewers who constantly whinge about camcorders supposedly under-performing in "low light", but he also responds to a listener's email question about HDV/DV switchable HDV camcorders.

JVC's 3CCD Everio GZ-HD7 Full-HD cam gets the SimplyDV review treatment

Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:00:00 +0100

The camcorder we first saw back in January 2007 has at last made it to market and is already attracting attention from serious home movie-making enthusiasts looking for a camera that can shoot true 1920 x 1080i resolution video to tapeless media.

The GZ-HD7 uses three 1/5th-inch CCDs, uses a Fujinon broadcast-quality 10:1 zoom lens and records true High Definition video to an internal 60GB hard disk drive in addition to providing a high-capacity SDHC card slot for stills. Its 1920 x 1080i pictures look fab when viewed via HDMI on a big HD screen. But is it perfect? Well, not quite - but read all about it and make your own mind up.

Canon's new HV20 HDV camcorder exclusively reviewed!

Fri, 11 May 2007 18:30:00 +0100

With more features and functions than you can throw a stick at plus great recording quality and full input/output facilities - can a consumer camcorder get any better than Canon's new HV20? Read the UK's first full and independent review of this superb new camcorder.

Canon unveils the HR10 - the "world's smallest AVCHD DVD camcorder"

Mon, 07 May 2007 11:30:00 +0100

Canon has just announced the expansion of its High Definition (HD) camcorder range with news of its HD-ready, direct-to-DVD HR10. Claimed by the company to be the world’s smallest AVCHD DVD camcorder – recording full-specification 1920x1080i HD movies to standard 8cm DVD media – the HR10 takes its place as Canon’s third consumer-focused HD camcorder release in under a year.

Corel's Ulead VideoStudio 11 is here!

Tue, 01 May 2007 13:00:00 +0100

The Corel Corporation has unveiled Ulead VideoStudio 11 which is designed as an all-in-one solution for producing professional-looking video, slideshows and DVDs with Dolby Digital sound. What's more, it follows hot on the heels of Avid's announcement that its Pinnacle Studio 11 now supports the AVCHD high Definition format.

Pinnacle announces Studio version 11 video editing software

Tue, 24 Apr 2007 16:15:00 +0100

Avid Technology, Inc., has announced that its Consumer division, Pinnacle Systems, is launching the next-generation Pinnacle Studio line of video editing software. Scheduled to reach store shelves in May 2007, the Pinnacle Studio 11 family is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of video enthusiasts with three products – Studio, Studio Plus and Studio Ultimate. The product family offers powerful video creation and sharing capabilities that address the latest consumer video trends, including support for new HD media types like AVCHD, the new operating system Microsoft Windows Vista, and Web publishing for online video sharing.

Announcing a gem of a book for camcorder newbies!

Wed, 04 Apr 2007 23:00:00 +0100

Written by SimplyDV's very own Colin Barrett and published as a pocket-sized version of his latest how-to book called "Need To Know Digital Video", UK publisher HarperCollins has now launched "Collins' Gem Digital Video". This new book serves as a perfect partner for your camcorder when you're out and about - and covers all the basics from choosing your camcorder, to shooting tips & tricks and even sharing via DVD and the web. Get your copy now!

SimplyDV Bulletin Board to close at midnight, April 2

Mon, 02 Apr 2007 13:00:00 +0100

As part of a programme of major improvements and upgrades - not to mention a need to re-align the website with the ever-changing marketplace - the bulletin board that has been such a popular feature of SimplyDV over the last five years is to close at midnight tonight (April 2nd). However, there are some interesting developments just around the corner! To be among the first to find out what's happening, make sure that you're on the Free Email Newsletter list!

Panasonic eyes up "YouTube generation" with SDR-S10 Compact Cam

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 14:00:00 +0000

With social-networking websites like YouTube now attracting the attention of so many younger people, it's no surprise that the major product manufacturers are gearing up to satisfy this rapidly-expanding market. Enter Panasonic's intriguing new SDR-S10 solid-state media camera that saves video and stills to SD/SDHC Memory Cards.

Hybrid SDR-H20 and SDR-H250 tapeless camcorders from Panasonic

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 13:15:00 +0000

The first models in this new series of SD video cameras from Panasonic support SD/SDHC (High Capacity) Memory Cards as a recording medium and incorporate a 30GB hard disc drive (HDD), the storage capacity of which is approximately 22 times as large as that of a single DVD. Is this the perfect alternative to MiniDV tape?

This year's camcorder offerings assessed in the latest SimplyDV Podcast

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 12:15:00 +0000

In the latest Podcast from SimplyDV, Colin Barrett takes a look at the significant new camcorder offerings for 2007, and provides a personal overview of the latest models from Sony, Canon, Panasonic and JVC. In it, Colin also considers the significance of two new "Full HD" High Definition camcorders from JVC and Canon - namely the Everio GZ-HD7 HDD cam and the HV20 respectively - both of which offer full 1920x1080 resolution video for the new high definition era.

Canon unveils the HV20, its first "full HD" 1920x1080 HDV camcorder with CMOS image sensor and 25p progressive scan

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 09:45:00 +0000

Less than a week after JVC unveiled its so-called Full-HD GZ-HD7 Everio HDD camcorder to European consumers, Canon has unveiled its new High Definition Video (HDV) line-up with the introduction of a new consumer flagship model - the HDV1080i Canon HD Camcorder HV20. This new companion to the HV10 features a Canon 2.96 Megapixel 1920x1080 True HD CMOS sensor and provides full HD resolution capture for HDV1080i recording. What's more, it also offer 25p progressive scan for that "cinema-like" feel.

JVC claims a first with full-spec Everio GZ-HD7 1920 x 1080i camcorder

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 15:00:00 +0000

The company used a special press and dealer event in Athens, Greece, to unveil the European version of its ground-breaking 3CCD Everio GZ-HD7 High Definition camcorder that offers full 1920x1080i HD recording to a 60GB Hard Disk Drive.

Canon announces "world's most powerful" DVD camcorder - the DC50

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:31:00 +0000

Claimed by the company to he "the world’s most powerful DVD camcorder", the flagship DC50 inherits the DIGIC DV II image processor and the Super Range Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS), both being technologies originally developed for Canon’s High Definition (HD) products.

MiniDV holding on at Canon with new MD160 and MD101 DV camcorders

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:30:00 +0000

Two new two widescreen-ready MiniDV camcorders from Canon will soon be in the stores this Spring - the MD160 and MD101. The MD160 boasts a 35x optical zoom lens – currently the highest magnification factor offered by any consumer model – while the MD101 features a 30x optical zoom lens.

Canon unveils its new DC230 and DC201 DVD camcorders for 2007

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 19:00:00 +0000

Two new direct-to-DVD camcorders from Canon offer increased choice at entry level. entry level models. The widescreen-ready Canon DVD Camcorder DC230 and DC201 benefit from a powerful optical zoom lens and DIGIC DV II, Canon’s most powerful video image processor originally designed for High Definition (HD) recording.

High profile for High Definition Handycams in Sony's 2007 product range

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 16:00:00 +0000

High Definition increases its 2007 profile with a substantial New Year offering from Sony that includes new AVCHD DVD and HDD camcorders, two new HDV models and - just when you thought the format was on its last legs - four new MiniDV cams!

Panasonic's new HDC-SD1 solid state High Def video camera - exclusively reviewed

Thu, 21 Dec 2006 23:00:00 +0000

We've enthused about this revolutionary AVCHD High Definition video camera from Panasonic since the official announcement at the end of November, and - to follow up - here's our exclusive in-depth, illustrated review of this marvelous 3CCD SD-card recording device

First Impressions: Panasonic's new 3CCD AVCHD camcorders

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 17:30:00 +0000

Ahead of the official European announcement, SimplyDV's Colin Barrett was given the opportunity by Panasonic Europe to use the new HDC-SD1 and HDC-DX1 AVCHD High Definition camcorders at an exclusive press gathering on the island of Lanzarote on 29th November, 2006. Here are his initial thoughts, together with some impressive through-the-lens digital images.

Panasonic enters AVCHD market with two new tapeless camcorders

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 09:05:55 +0000

Panasonic throws down the High Definition gauntlet in a direct challenge to Sony with the announcement of two new tapeless AVCHD High Definition camcorders aimed at the European market - the HDC-SD1 (SDHC card) and the HDC-DX1 (DVD).

Adobe's Mike Impietro discusses Premiere Elements 3.0 and plans for AVCHD compatibility in Podcast No. 6

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 23:07:12 +0000

In this week's SimplyDV Podcast, which is available to download in your preferred Podcast Player right now, Adobe's Senior Product Manager for Consumer Digital Video, Mike Impietro, describes what's new in Adobe Premiere Elements 3.0. We also look at some of the problems faced by software companies in facilitating smooth import, editing and export of the new AVCHD consumer high definiion format.

The 5th SimplyDV Podcast is now available!

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 09:15:00 +0000

This week, we look at how you can convert your old VHS, Hi8 and Video8 recordings to digital video; there's also guidance on choosing and using tripods, and if you're keen on digitising all your image, sound and film or video keepsakes, you'll find a new book (of which Colin is a co-author) called "Go Digital: Keep the Past Alive!" just the thing to have handy. Pick up the new Podcast in iTunes or your own reader - or check out our Podcast page for more info and links.

SimplyDV Podcast Number 4 is now available!

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 17:15:00 +0100

This week we compare three Windows XP-based digital video editing programs for beginners and enthusiasts - Adobe Premiere Elements 3, Pinnacle Studio Plus 10.5 and Ulead Video Studio 10 Plus - with their Apple Mac OSX equivalent, Final Cut Express HD. Colin's Tip Of The Week is how and when to use Establishing Shots in your video.

SimplyDV Podcast Number 3 now online

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 09:16:49 +0100

The third of our weekly Podcasts on the subject of digital video home movie-making is now online. In this week's MiniDV-orientated edition, Colin takes asks the question: "What's happening to DV - is this the beginning of the end?" in addition to examining why having DV-input on a camcorder is a good thing.

Also in the spotlight is a reflection on the lack of microphone inputs on modern camcorders, and this week's Pro Tip offers advice on how (and why) to avoid Timecode resets on your DV, Digital-8 and HDV tape recordings.

Don't forget - to ensure that you receive the Podcasts as soon as they're published, click the "Subscribe" button in iTunes or your preferred podcast directory or RSS reader!

SimplyDV commences weekly Podcasts

Thu, 12 Oct 2006 17:00:00 +0100

Subscribe to the weekly SimplyDV podcast in your preferred directory and get the latest digital video and camcorder news, reviews, information and tips via MP3 download automatically! Listen to them on your computer, iPod (or other MP3 player) or PDA anytime, anywhere, any place!

New book "Need To Know? Digital Video" is now available!

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 14:30:00 +0100

Are you a digital video newbie looking for some good, honest advice on choosing and using your first camcorder? This great new book - the second on the subject by SimplyDV's founder and editor Colin Barrett - will tell you everything you need to know. And more!

Sony's DCR-SR90 30GB HDD camcorder reviewed in depth

Fri, 22 Sep 2006 11:00:00 +0100

The DCR-SR90 (and its USA counterpart, the DCR-DC100) which sports a 30GB Hard Disk Drive, a G-sensor drive protection, 16:9 widescreen and a touch-screen LCD operation, was Sony's entrant into the growing Hard Disk Drive camcorder market in 2006. But is it a match for JVC's GZ-MG505 HDD camcorder? We take a look.

The low-down on the Panasonic NV-GS500 3CCD DV camcorder

Fri, 15 Sep 2006 10:00:00 +0100

The impressive top-of-the-range 3CCD widescreen DV camcorder from Panasonic seems to tick all the boxes for the serious home video enthusiast. Or does it? It's already been out for a month or two now but after having a good play with it here's what we think of it.

Canon's entry-level DC100 DVD camcorder reviewed

Thu, 14 Sep 2006 12:45:05 +0100

Canon's entry-level widescreen DVD camcorder is a basic no-frills DVD camcorder that will allow you to record your movies to disk and then play them back in a set-top or portable DVD player at a price that won't break the bank. That's it. But if you're a complete home movie newbie and that's all you're looking for, then read this review!

Adobe Premiere Elements 3.0 is launched

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 13:45:22 +0100

The latest in Adobe's successful line of consumer digital video editing and compression products adds HD compatibility, export with Adobe Flash Video and easier file-sharing with portable devices like iPod Video and PSP. Also announced is Photoshop Elements 5.0, which is available separately or as a bundle.

Sony unveils new HDR-FX7 3ClearVid CMOS HDV Handycam

Thu, 07 Sep 2006 17:00:00 +0100

Sony has announced a new addition to its HDV camcorder range in the form of the HDR-FX7 which uses 3 Clearvid CMOS image sensors designed to offer higher resolution and improved colour resolution, claims the company

Quad 64-bit Xeon Mac Pro and Leopard OS X unveiled by Apple

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 09:00:00 +0100

Apple's Steve Jobs uses the WWDC 2006 developers' convention in San Francisco to unveil the new Mac Pro desktop workstation featuring Quad 64-bit Xeon Processors, and provides a sneak-peek of the new Mac OS X "Leopard"

Wot! More DVD camcorders from Canon for Autumn 2006?

Wed, 02 Aug 2006 15:30:00 +0100

Canon is unveiling new model camcorders like there's no tomorrow this Summer with three second generation DVD (-R/-RW/-R Dual Layer) camcorders - the 2.2 Megapixel CCD Canon DC19 DVD camcorder, along with partner products the DC21 and the DC22, which Canon reckons "extend and strengthen Canon’s straight-to-DVD range".

The World's Smallest HDV camcorder arrives in the form of Canon's HV10!

Wed, 02 Aug 2006 14:00:00 +0100

Move over Sony. Canon has unveiled what it claims to be the world's smallest HDV1080i camcorder with a 1/2.7" CMOS, rather than CCD, imaging device and "true" widescreen shooting

JVC's Everio Share Station USB 2.0 DVD burner reviewed

Fri, 28 Jul 2006 16:30:00 +0100

Designed to complement its ever-expanding Everio "G" range of HDD products, JVC has introduced a neat unit that is designed to take all the hassle out of making a DVD from clips stored on a GZ-MG77 or GZ-MG505 HDD camcorder. Read the first European review of the JVC Everio CU-VD10 Share Station.

New October slot for IOV2006 (UK)

Thu, 27 Jul 2006 09:00:00 +0100

The Institute of Videography has announced that registrations are now being accepted for its Annual Convention and Trade Exhibition on 18th & 19th October 2006, which is being held for the third year running at Stoneleigh Park, nr Coventry.

Canon unveils two new HDV cams - the XH-A1 and XH-G1

Wed, 26 Jul 2006 12:00:00 +0100

Canon has announced the launch of two 1.67 Megapixel 3CCD handheld High Definition camcorders – the Canon HD Video Camera Recorder XH-A1 and a companion product, the Canon HD Video Camera Recorder XH-G1. Both models bring professional quality 1080i High Definition Video (HDV) to a new generation of videographers, according to Canon.

Apple debuts its Mighty Mouse

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 15:28:15 +0100

Apple has cut the umbilical cord on its Mighty Mouse to bring a Bluetooth wireless mouse that has four programmable buttons and an "ingenious" scroll ball, no less, and features a new laser tracking engine that is claimed by the company to be 20 times more sensitive than standard optical mice for better tracking on even more surfaces.

Reviews of Panasonic VDR-D100 and VDR-D150 DVD cams online

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 14:49:25 +0100

With sales of DVD camcorders now accounting for a reported 30% of all camcorder sales, we're reviewing more of them on the website. Panasonic's VDR-D100 and VDR-D150 are the entry points in the company's DVD camcorder line-up. Here's what we think of them.

Buying a first camcorder? Where do you start?

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 12:00:15 +0100

The decision about what camcorder to buy depends entirely upon what you intend to use it for, so before you splash the cash on something you might later regret, take a moment to reflect. Here's some new information to help you make that difficult first choice.

Easy DVD creation with Sony DVDirect

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 10:30:28 +0100

Sony's two new DVDirect recorders, the video- and digital-photo-capable VRD-MC3 and the video-only VRD-VC30, are designed to take the uncertainty and stress out of DVD creation and could be the ideal solution for instant photo and DVD video creation.

Sony adds three HDD cams to line-up

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 10:00:00 +0100

Three new Hard Disk Drive Handycam camcorders from Sony - the DCR-SR30, SR50 and SR70 - offer long recording times thanks to 30GB and 60Gb drives plus easy DVD creation.

High Definition goes tapeless with Sony AVCHD format DVD and HDD cams

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 09:30:25 +0100

At last Sony takes high-definition recording and playback a step towards the tapeless future with the announcement of its new HDR-UX1 (DVD) and HDR-SR1 (HDD) AVCHD format HD cams. The camcorders use the new AVCHD encoding format to compress 1080i and 720p high definition standard video onto DVD and HDD using the advanced MPEG-4 / H.264 codec.

Review of JVC GZ-MG505 3CCD HDD camcorder now online

Fri, 14 Jul 2006 11:15:01 +0100

JVC's top of the range Everio "G" HDD (Hard Disk Drive) camcorder uses 3CCDs to create MPEG-2 video clips which are written to a tiny internal 30Gigabyte hard disk drive. Here's out exclusive review.