Featuring an innovative modular design and a full complement of accessories, the new GY-HM790E also boasts three 1/3-inch CCDs, which allow a lighter, more compact form factor.
The camera produces 1920×1080 images and can record in 1080i, 720p, and even SD (576i) for operations that have not yet made the move to HD. The camera records at 35Mbps (HQ mode/variable bitrate) or 19Mbps/25Mbps (SP mode/constant bitrate). Although the camera ships with a Canon 14x zoom lens, it can accommodate a variety of lenses with its 1/3-inch bayonet lens mount.
Adopting the successful tapeless workflow introduced in the GY-HM700 camcorder, the GY-HM790 features a dual card slot design that records to low-cost, non-proprietary SDHC Class 6 or 10 solid-state media cards. JVC’s native file recording technology allows recording in ready-to-edit file formats for Apple Final Cut Pro (.mov) and other major NLE systems (.mp4) that are compatible with Sony XDCAM EX workflow.
An optional ASI output module provides a direct feed from the camera to a satellite uplink or microwave transmitter via BNC – no “black box” interfaces required – for live HD video from the field. Other ENG features on the GY-HM790 include an analogue SD pool feed input, 4.3-inch LCD screen, and a high-resolution, 1.2 megapixel LCOS viewfinder. Two XLR inputs with phantom power offer uncompressed LPCM audio recording with manual level controls.
“The excellent image quality of the GY-HM790, coupled with its versatility for both studio and ENG use, makes it an attractive camcorder for broadcasters in any DMA,” said Craig Yanagi, manager of marketing and brand strategy, JVC Professional Products, USA. “Plus, our optional ASI module makes it easier than ever to produce true HD reports from the field. The GY-HM790 does more than shoot great pictures; it literally changes the way live news reports can be produced.”
An HD/SD-SDI port provides an uncompressed 4:2:2 full HD signal for live monitoring, and a FireWire port provides output of SD signals or the HDV transport stream, so footage can be backed up economically with an HDD recorder. An optional SxS media recorder module attaches directly to the camcorder and allows simultaneous recording to SDHC cards and SxS media.
Its redesigned studio adapter sled incorporates a modular approach to multicore or fibre connectivity for a cleaner interface. Modules connect directly to the camera without external cabling, so they can be used either with the studio sled or handheld. Plus, the company says, JVC’s modular approach allows the creation of additional modules to accommodate future technologies.
Other new features for studio or multi-camera use include built-in time code in/out and genlock. JVC also offers a full complement of accessories, including a remote camera control unit, remote shader panel, 8.4-inch studio viewfinder, and multi-input special effects generators.
The GY-HM790 will be available this summer.
