Posted by ushere on 03/29/07 05:07

Charlie S. wrote:
> Tried the camera out again tonight. I like it. The only problem I
> have is the viewfinder. It's on the left side and doesn't tilt out
> like a typical LCD display. Since I focus with my left eye, I can't
> look into the viewfinder unless I am some distance away. Is there a
> work-around for this type of problem?
>
>
> "Charlie S." <CharlieStam@verizon.net> wrote in message
> news:97kOh.3683$J21.2047@trndny03...
>> I am fairly new to video. Been borrowing the local cable company's
>> Canon GL2 most of the time. I also have a small Sony mini-dv
>> handicam.
>>
>>
>> Looking for feedback about this camera and your opinion as whether
>> buying it might be a good decision to buy or not.
>>
>> This is the situation:
>>
>> Have an opportunity to buy a used JVC GY-DV500U, plus a used and
>> heavy tripod that goes with it for around $!000. The
>> manufacturing date is January 2000. From what I hear there was a
>> recall issue on this date, but I imagine it's been resolved.
>>
>> The camera looks pretty beat up. The paint on the handle is worn
>> away. There are numerous ding marks on the body and the lens shield
>> has a jaded edge from being banged around. I'm guessing from all
>> the wear, it was probably used by a television news crew at one
>> time. The meter says it has 99 hours of (drum?) use... I'm not
>> sure what that means. Probably was repaired and the hours reset???
>>
>>
>>
>> There are a lot of negatives about this camera that just didn't
>> feel right to me. Besides the beat up appearance, it felt
>> uncomfortable to carry. My friend said it doesn't have a
>> stabilizing feature. Since it didn't feel comfortable carrying it,
>> I would most likely have to mount it on a tripod most of the time.
>>
>>
>> I also focus with my left eye and the camera eyepiece is on the
>> left side. I would hope that could be changed to the other side? It
>> comes with a 5"-6" square monitor piece. Don't know where that
>> would fit on. The camera had a lot of different switches. Most of
>> which seemed ergonomically challenging and confusing. Probably
>> somewhat of a steep learning curve getting used to it.
>>
>> On the positive side the mini-dv receptacle was impeccably clean,
>> The lens doesn't have any scratches and is much larger than the
>> standard consumer lens. (I don't remember the focal ranges. It's
>> a canon lense.). The price is pretty cheap. I was thinking of
>> offering $700 or so. A new model cost close to $7,000. Although,
>> I'm sure, with all the newer features, it's a far better camera. A
>> friend of mind shot some footage on it. He, along with a video
>> type person, said the footage looked fantastic.
>>
>> As you might guess I'm leaning against buying this unit. On the
>> other hand, for a starter camera, it might be a good camera to
>> learn on. I could always sell it if it didn't work out.
>>
>> Feel welcome to offer your opinion or experiences with using this
>> camera.
>>
>
>
pro cameras have 'fixed' viewfinders on the left, so you can see the
display panels / switches / etc., without too much hassle.

all older pro cameras (afaik) use b&w crt. an lcd at that size is
utterly useless.

jvc are known for 'cutting edge' semi-pro equipment, the problem is, you
usually end up bleeding to death over it.

i have never seen jvc equipment used in a pro environment, nor their
cameras by pro cameramen. that said, they sell an awful lot to event and
low budget cable...

if it's for a hobby, seems ok. if you intend trying to make money - no way.

leslie

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