
JVC upgrades its 600 Series ProHD mobile news camcorders with two new models—the GY-HM660 and the GY-HM620. The GY-HM660 is particularly noteworthy for its combination of wireless streaming capabilities and an integrated interruptible foldback (IFB) audio return channel. Both of the camcorders feature upgraded CMOS sensors that offer improved sensitivity, as well as a brighter 3.5" 960K-pixel LCD screen, benefiting shooting in bright outdoor environments. The GY-HM620 is now available at B&H Photo, with the GY-HM660 available for pre-order.
The two camcorders share the same body design and familiar handheld form factor that is ideal for news gathering, sports, live events, and independent productions. Like their predecessors, they are equipped with a 23x Fujinon zoom lens (29 to 667mm equivalent range) and feature manual zoom, focus, and iris rings, and three built-in ND filters. Under the hood, the camcorders feature three new 12-bit 1/3" CMOS image sensors for improved sensitivity compared to the previous generation models. Video is recorded to SDHC/XC memory cards in a variety of formats, including 1080p60 at 50 Mbps using the H.264 codec. Dual card slots support relay recording and simultaneous backup recording, with the GY-HM660 adding the ability to record different-resolution/format clips to each card. Additional shared features include HD-SDI and HDMI outputs, dual XLR inputs with phantom power, a LANC remote interface, and timecode sync input.
With the addition of a separately available Wi-Fi adapter, 4G LTE modem, or LAN connector, the GY-HM660 can broadcast a high-quality live stream, even while simultaneously recording internally. For reliable streaming, the camcorder offers a Zixi and SMPTE2022 forward error correction (FEC), automatic repeat request (ARQ), and adaptive bitrate control. It can also provide an RTMP stream for direct delivery to CDNs, such as USTREAM and YouTube, and supports background FTP clip transfers while recording. Boosting the camcorder’s ENG chops is the addition of an interruptible feedback (IFB) audio channel that allows the control room to communicate with on-air talent or operator via an earpiece.
If you’re in the market for a handheld HD camcorder to add to your mobile news gathering or run-and-gun productions, then JVC’s GY-HM620 or GY-HM660 combination of form and function—particularly the streaming capabilities of the GY-HM660—should warrant them some serious consideration.
0 Comments