JVC GR-DVL300U Digital Camcorder

I bought this camera and loved almost everything about it. The biggest problem is the fact that there is no external mic input jack and no headphone jack. The quality of sound you get from the onboard mic on almost any camcorder is not very good at best. And you should never underestimate the effect good sound has on the quality of your video projects. If you plan to do anything needing good on location sound you will want to find a model with the ext. mic jack and use either a shotgun mic or some lavalier mics. I would say buy a camera that gives you this option because down the road you may need/want it. It would stink to [buy] a camera and then find out that it didn't do everything you needed it to do. I took the camera back an bought a better one that had all of the connections I wanted. (the panasonic pv-dv400, it's a little more expensive but very much worth it to have the sound quality, not to metion the 18x optical zoom.)

I just bought this camera ....

I've had no problems importing still images or video to my PC, though the still image quality is nowhere near that of a true digital still camera. The LCD screen is a bit small, but again its just fine for the price. Also, don't believe everything you read about the mic. I tested it and it picked up whispering at ~1 meter and normal conversation at ~5 meters. It even has a feature to reduce wind noise on windy days. Very nice touches make this a good camera.

The users' manuals are very detailed yet very easy to follow. The power cord stretches over 3 meters and the battery seems to last a while as well and only takes 90 minutes for its first charge.

Does not come with any tape, though, so be sure to order some too.

Buy JVC GR-DVL300U Digital Camcorder Now

Even though this camcorder has many great functions, I was disappointed that I had a dirty head warning after the first 60 minutes of use. Not what I expect after spending 650+. The recorder was new (sealed box). Trying to get the recording on a VCR is also giving me problems. It may be my TV and VCR are Multi-system units but I don't think that's the problem. I am fair with the cable connections and expected immediate success. Things should not be so tough. I have been able to watch the movies connecting directly to the TV though and like the quality of the picture. I'm sure I will get it going and hope head cleaning is not required every 60 minutes of use.

Read Best Reviews of JVC GR-DVL300U Digital Camcorder Here

Picture quality is good but the image stabilization is very bad. I purchased this camera a week ago and decided to return it and get Canon Optura Pi, since Optura Pi has the optical stabilizer.

Want JVC GR-DVL300U Digital Camcorder Discount?

Hi:

I have had the same experience as the other two reviewers that had the "Clean Heads" warning appear after only a few minutes of use. After which the camera then died.

Fortunately I was able to return it for a full refund but that is not satisfactory, as JVC should be ashamed of themselves for subjecting their customers with a problem that is obviously running rampant in this Model.

That is almost 30% of this small sample that have had this experience.

It would appear that either you become a victum or luck out and get one that is ok and it should not be a game of russian roulette when you are making this kind of purchase.

Come on JVC lets show some initiative and concern here and rectify the situation.

Do the right thing!