JVC COMPANY OF AMERICA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Las Vegas, NV (February 18-21, 1999)
JVC, the inventor of VHS as well as VHS-C technology, has introduced two new DualCam models, the GR-AXM710 and GR-AXM910, as part of their comprehensive camcorder lineup. These DualCam models are unique by providing the benefits of both a digital still camera and video camcorder in a single unit. The user always has the choice of shooting digital still pictures (VGA, 640 x 480 pixels) with direct digital transfer to a PC via a provided serial connection, or shooting video motion pictures on Compact VHS cassettes that can be played on any VHS video deck using the supplied VHS Playpak adapter.
This 2�in�1 capability not only makes DualCam a convenient partner to take on trips � saving precious luggage space while serving double duty � but the integrated design enables the camcorder�s powerful zoom magnification and special effects to be used even when shooting digital stills. As a result, the DualCam�s built-in digital still camera is able to offer much more powerful shooting capabilities and effects than most stand-alone digital still cameras currently on the market. Furthermore, DualCam comes supplied with all cables and software necessary to transfer, catalog, retouch and manipulate digital still images on your Windows PC. The DualCam opens up new avenues to multimedia creativity while maintaining compatibility with the VHS video infrastructure that is omnipresent worldwide with over 700 million units throughout the globe.
Built in Digital Still Camera The internal digital still camera function is based on a 2MB digital flash memory which lets you shoot and store 60 (standard mode) or 30 (fine mode) full VGA images. DualCam is equipped with a PC terminal and comes with cables and software (listed below) for quick and direct digital still image transfer as well as image cataloging and retouching on a PC. This integrated 2-in-1 product will even let you take advantage of the camcorder�s high zoom magnification of up to 320x, digital special effects, and other features, when shooting digital stills, for far more shooting versatility than you would get with a digital camera alone.
Software Capability Picture Navigator
Digital still image transfer
from DualCam to PC, or PC to DualCam, as well as basic image cataloging.
Mr. Photo Gold Edition Presto
Mr. Photo for image cataloging, viewing and automatic Web page creation (HTML
output). Presto PhotoAlbum for decorating photos with various templates such
as calendars and greeting cards. Presto ImageFolio with pro-style retouching
with multi-layer maske support, custom layouts, and advanced special effects.
Digital Advantage JVC�s industry-leading know-how in digital technology has been harnessed to complement the VHS technology that JVC invented and honed over the years. For instance, built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processing) circuitry digitally processes the video signal to record pictures with low noise, better linearity over a broader range from high to low luminance, and improved vertical and horizontal clarity. Digital technology is also used in the Digital Hyper Zoom which delivers up to 320x magnification for ultra closeups. And to ensure a stable picture even during digital zoom, those models are also equipped with JVC�s Picture Stabilizer which recognizes the user�s unique camera-shake characteristics to eliminate shakes more effectively.
Variety of Special Effects
To maximize the user�s creative potential,
both models are equipped with digital scene transitions such as Shutter Wipe,
Slide Wipe and Mosaic Fader, in addition to the more traditional Black Fader.
Program AE with Special Effects include Sepia, Twilight, Sports, High-Speed
Shutter, Fog Filter, ND Filter, and Nega/Posi reversal. These pro-style effects
are an easy and professional-looking way for people to make their videos more
creative and entertaining to watch. Most effects can be applied to the picture
even when shooting digital stills.
The Snapshot Modes let the user shoot digital stills in a wide variety of styles such as Full-Screen, Pin-up, 4- and 9- frame multi-picture, and rapid Motor-Drive shooting of consecutive shots. Or the user can choose to record snapshots on video (in Full-Screen or Pin-up) together with a shutter-like "click" sound effect, simultaneously as they�re being stored in the digital memory; or in other words, the user can shoot and store digital stills while recording video, without having to switch modes. And as the coup de gr�ce in creativity, there�s the Digital Still Insert Editing function, which allows the still pictures in the digital memory to be inserted into the VHS video footage. By inserting stills into moving footage at key points, you can divide the video into short, concise chapters for a livelier temp when viewed. Only an integrated 2-in-1 unit like DualCam could offer such an advanced function with no need for external connections.
Variety of Convenience Features
Both models feature a high-resolution
LCD monitor that can be tilted to allow high-angle overhead shooting in crowds,
low-angle shots, and self-portraits when pointed forward. The GR-AXM710 is equipped
with a 2.5" monitor while the GR-AMX910 boasts a 3" monitor for added viewability.
In either case, an integrated speaker will enable users to playback and enjoy
their videos wherever they are. Other valuable features available include: a
Built-in Auto Light that automatically turns on or off depending on how bright
the surrounding light is, assuring bright, clear shots even in dark environments;
Super LoLux to allow shooting in as little light as under 1 lux, when extra
lighting isn�t possible; Flying Erase Head for distortion-free stop-and-go recording;
Instant Titles to add flair to any scene; Nickel Metal-Hydride Battery Pack
for extended shooting of approx. 2 hours per charge; J-Terminal for computer-controlled
video playback and editing (using optionally available software), and so much
more. For shooting of marathon events, JVC will also offer the VU-V856 High
Capacity Battery Kit (7-hour battery life) as an option.
As the company that invented the VHS format as well as Compact VHS, and thereby brought video out of the studios and into people�s hands, JVC remains the foremost expert in VHS-based camcorders. Additionally, JVC�s leadership in the field of digital video can be assessed by the success of their Digital CyberCam series of MiniDV video cameras. The company�s latest DualCam fuses many benefits from analog and digital into an all-in-one image gathering system that people can enjoy shooting with, as well as all the seemingly endless post-production possibilities made available by computerized image manipulation.
Available in February, the GR-AXM910 compact VHS camcorder has a nationally advertised value of $849.95, and the GR-AXM710 compact VHS camcorder has a nationally advertised value of $799.95.