Last updated on November 27th, 2024 at 03:43 pm
In 2000, the JVC GR-SXM740U camcorder was a notable entry into analog video recording, particularly for those interested in the S-VHS-C format.
This camcorder combines a range of features suitable for novice users and those who appreciate manual control over their recordings.
Below is an extensive overview of its technical specifications, strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance of the JVC GR-SXM740U S-VHS-C camcorder.
Technical Specifications
Tape Format
The JVC GR-SXM740U supports the S-VHS-C format, promising higher-quality video recording than standard VHS.
Lens
The camcorder comes with a 16:1 zoom lens with a focal length ranging from 3.9 mm to 62.4 mm and an aperture of f/1.6.
The lens has a filter diameter of 40.5 mm, making it versatile for various shooting conditions.
Image Sensor
At the heart of the GR-SXM740U is a 1/4-inch CCD image sensor, which captures images with decent clarity and color accuracy.
Viewfinder
The camcorder features a 1/2-inch black-and-white viewfinder for composing shots and a 3.5-inch color LCD viewscreen with 110,000 pixels for easy monitoring and playback.
Focus
For focus control, users can choose between auto and manual options, allowing for greater creative flexibility.
Image Stabilizer
The camcorder also includes electronic image stabilization, which helps reduce blurriness caused by camera shake during handheld shooting.
Shutter Speed
With an amazing maximum shutter speed of 1/2,000 seconds, users can enjoy capturing fast-moving subjects effectively.
Exposure and White Balance
Exposure control is available in automatic and manual modes and three program AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit different lighting conditions.
The white balance can be adjusted manually or set to auto, with several presets available to ensure accurate color reproduction under various lighting scenarios.
Digital Effects
The GR-SXM740U offers 12 digital effects that can enhance recordings creatively, although it lacks advanced editing interfaces.
Audio
Audio is recorded in linear mono, which may not satisfy users looking for richer sound quality, as no microphone or headphone jacks are available for external audio input or monitoring.
AV Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, the camcorder provides outputs for S-video, composite video, and mono audio.
It also features a still shot output to PC via RS-232 for transferring images directly to computers.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the JVC GR-SXM740U are 7 7/8 inches wide, 4 7/16 inches high, and 4 11/16 inches deep, making it relatively compact.
It weighs approximately 2 pounds without tape and battery, contributing to its portability.
Other Features
Other notable features include a time-base corrector for improved playback quality.
There is also an integrated video light for low-light shooting conditions.
Performance Times
The performance of the JVC GR-SXM740U is commendable in several areas.
It has a pause-to-record time of approximately 0.97 seconds, allowing users to start recording quickly after pausing.
The power-up time to record is about 7.59 seconds, which is reasonable for an analog camcorder.
When fast-forwarding or rewinding a 30-minute tape, the camcorder takes about 2 minutes and 16 seconds to complete the task.
The tested horizontal resolution is around 380 lines, providing good image clarity for analog recordings.
Strengths
One of the standout features of the JVC GR-SXM740U is its excellent image quality, especially when using S-VHS-C tapes in optimal conditions.
The presence of many manual controls allows users to adjust settings according to their preferences, making it suitable for those who want more creative input into their recordings
.Additionally, the inclusion of a time base corrector enhances playback quality by reducing jitter and improving stability in recorded footage.
This feature is particularly beneficial when transferring footage to digital formats or when viewing on different devices.
Weaknesses
Despite its strengths, the JVC GR-SXM740U has some limitations that may affect its appeal to certain users.
Notably, it lacks microphone and headphone jacks, which restricts audio customization options and may disappoint users seeking higher-quality sound recording capabilities.
Furthermore, the audio is recorded in linear mono only, which can sound flat compared to stereo sound systems found in modern devices. This limitation might deter those who prioritize audio quality in their video recordings.
Conclusion
Overall, the JVC GR-SXM740U camcorder offers a solid combination of features that cater well to casual users and enthusiasts interested in analog video recording.
Its strengths lie in its image quality and manual controls, while its weaknesses mainly revolve around audio limitations and connectivity options.
For those seeking a reliable analog camcorder that delivers good performance without the complexities of modern digital technology, the GR-SXM740U remains a valuable choice in today’s market.
Video Guide
Table Summary
| Format | S-VHS-C |
| Lens | fl=3.9 to 62.4mm, 16:1 zoom, f/1.6, 40.5mm filter |
| Image Sensor | 1/4″ CCD |
| Viewfinder | 1/2″ black & white |
| LCD Viewscreen | 3 1/2″ color; 110,000 pixels |
| Focus | auto, manual |
| Image Stabilization | electronic |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/2,000 |
| Exposure Control | auto, manual |
| Program AE Modes | 3 |
| White Balance | auto, manual, presets |
| Digital Effects | 12 |
| Audio | mono, linear |
| Inputs | none |
| Outputs | S-video, composite video, mono audio |
| Edit Interface | none |
| Other Features | Still shot output to PC (RS-232), time base corrector, video light |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 7 7/8″ x 4 7/16″ x 4 11/16″ |
| Weight (sans tape and battery) | 2 lbs |
| Pause to Record | 0.97 seconds |
| Power-up to Record | 7.59 seconds |
| Fast Forward/Rewind (30 min) | 2 minutes, 16 seconds |
| Tested Horizontal Resolution | 380 lines |
| Strengths | Excellent image quality, Many manual controls, Time base corrector |
| Weaknesses | No microphone or headphone jacks, Linear mono sound only |
References
Videomaker JVC GR-SXM740U review
JVC Official JVC GR-SXM740U Specs
