JVC Everio GZ-HD6 help and sugestions

[JeffGonzales]

Hello, Im currently looking at purchasing a JVC Everio GZ-HD6 3CCD 120GB Hard Disk Drive Camcorder. Does any one have one of these? If so what do you think of it. Does it have full manuel focus options, mainly infinity focus.

Also if infinity focus is not an option on here what are some other suggestions? I can get this camcorder for about 600 so i dont want to go high then that. I maininly want 3ccd, HDD option, and firewire.

I currently own a Panasonic HDC 250, but can't get infinity focus on it nor does it have firewire.

Thanks

 

[Scott Bennett]

I have had the GZ-HD5 version for the past 2 seasons, all my Aurora & Bowdle video was shot on it.

Not a bad cam but some very frustrating nit pics... it's become customary for me to complain every time I turn it on and it asks "Select Desired Mode" to which I reply "My desired mode is to record the F*ing tornado on the ground!" this comentary is included in many others chase videos as I am obviously not recording yet.

Does it shoot good video? Yes.
Good for streaming? No unless you are recording it will sleep, you hit a bump and the HD will go into protection mode.
I have yet to see a drive based camera that will output firewire like a webcam.

I got mine for around $350-$400 at that price a great value but I doubt I would pay $600 for it.

 

[JeffGonzales]

Awsome, thanks Scott, good to know

 

[Wesley Luginbyhl]

I have the GZ-HD7, which is basically the same model but only 60 GB. I am using it as my dome camera currently, its definitely not the best option but I needed to find a use for it. The sleep mode is a problem It has a manual focus ring, that is fun, but can be a serious pain. To be able to use the manual focus you must have it in manual mode which can be a bit tricky as well.

Here are a few videos I have taken with this camera:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70dMtwrtYro
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_5dQmbKWnk

This one shows some of the auto-focus issues and low-light conditions:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__AzMJnx43M

 

[Scott Bennett]

So I assume you find the menus cumbersome also? I like the video it takes.... just hate working with it!