New JVC HD Everio Line New model, GZ-HD 40, are the world�s first AVCHD / MPEG-2 dual-format camcorders, allowing access to the superior long time compression afforded by AVCHD, as well as MPEG-2�s superior editing and post-production environment. Both offer 1920 x 1080 Full HD recording in both formats to a 120GB (GZ-HD 40) internal hard disk drive. Technologies behind the scenes include new CMOS imaging chips with interpolation technology, the HD Gigabrid Duo chip that includes codecs for AVCHD in all camcorders and MPEG-2 in the GZ-HD 40 as well as noise reduction technology, and 1920 x 1080/60P output for all camcorders via HDMI� (V.1.3 with x.v.Color). Ease of use innovations include Intelligent Grouping, which sorts and groups together similar themed scenes for easier access, and Digest Playback, which creates a video montage of scenes, much like a �coming attractions� clip, when they�re burned to a DVD. 1920 x 1080 Full HD Recording The GZ-HD 40 both have three AVCHD recording modes that all record Full HD 1920 x 1080 video. The only difference among modes is the bit rate, and while using the highest bit rate yields the highest quality results, the image quality is remarkable even using the lowest bit rate EP mode. And since 1920 x 1080 is truly native HDTV resolution, it requires no conversion on the part of the display device to show high definition images. The GZ-HD 40 also have the FHD mode for recording Full HD 1920 x 1080 MPEG-2 Transport Stream video with MPEG-1 Layer 2 audio. For HDV compatible stream via i.LINK Continuous shooting time and typical shooting time are approximate. To record video, a microSDHC card with Class 4 or higher performance is required. microSD memory cards (256MB to 2GB) and microSDHC memory cards (4GB and 8GB) have been tested for the following brands: Panasonic, Toshiba, SanDisk, ATP. Note that using other media may result in recording failure or data loss. New CMOS Chips with Interpolation Technology The image sensors used in the new HD Everio line are newly developed small size but high resolution 1/3� and 1/4.5� CMOS chips. This CMOS uses proprietary interpolation technology based on what JVC developed for its 3CCD cameras. This algorithm makes it possible to generate virtual pixel data from the red, green and blue physical pixels, thereby providing image information that actually surpasses what�s required for 1920 x 1080 Full HD imaging. HD Gigabrid Duo Engine JVC�s HD Gigabrid video engine, which processes in full 1920 x 1080 progressive video, was the result of years of experience in signal-processing technology, and uses five digital noise-reduction algorithms as well as signal processing to improve horizontal scan resolution by approximately 20 percent over JVC�s previous interlace technology, for an extremely clear and sharp image. HDMI (V.1.3. with x.v.Color) The new JVC HD Everio camcorders record using x.v.Color� technology. The universal standard xvYCC, known as x.v.Color, provides more accurate color reproduction with more detail and shades that look more natural to the human eye. It can display 100 percent of the colors that the human eye is capable of perceiving, whereas the traditional sRGB system can only display approximately 55 percent. The difference in color reproduction performance is especially noticeable in greens and yellows. These new HD Everio camcorders output to televisions directly using HDMI (V.1.3. with x.v.Color). Extremely Quick Response, Designed for High Quality Shooting JVC�s new HD Everio models minimize the risk of missing an important shot with faster response time for many operations. For instance, the time lag from pressing the trigger to the start of recording is only 0.08 seconds (trigger sound set to off). That is nearly instantaneous, and a great improvement over the more common 0.6 second delay. Likewise, the time it takes to power-on the unit has been reduced to 0.6 seconds, whereas competitive models may take over 1.5 seconds. And to play footage, it takes only 3.5 seconds to display the playback picture, which is about half the time required for other manufacturers� products. These improvements can mean the difference between capturing a crucial shot or missing it. In addition, JVC HD Everio camcorders include other functions that enhance convenience and quality: * Hybrid HDD and MicroSD Recording; Auto Light; Focus Assist and Manual settings; Simultaneous to Video Progressive Still Shooting; Quick power off; 2.8� Clear wide LCD with Auto Backlight Brightness; Mic input and Accessory Shoe; Direct Backup button; In Camera File Editing (AVCHD). Innovations in Ease of Use JVC has equipped its new HD Everio models with new functions to enhance usability. First is the �Intelligent Grouping� function that at the touch of a button rapidly sorts through and categorizes the recordings stored on the camcorder�s hard disk into different groups. Up to 1,000 scenes can be grouped in three seconds or less. With scenes categorized, users will have faster and easier access to desired scenes, a real convenience as the hard drive fills up. As an extension of this technology, �Digest Playback� automatically generates a video montage of just the highlight scenes when HD Everio recordings are copied to a DVD. This digest version of the disc contents, looking much like a coming-attractions clip, will help the viewer get a general idea of what the disc is about, saving precious time.