Canon HV10 3.1MP High-Definition MiniDV Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom
By: Canon Average Rating: 4.5 Total Reviews: 39
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 On: 2008-05-26
The HV10 produces some great video. Fits my hand well and is easy to use. It uses the older DV tapes, but still has great video quality.
On: 2008-01-14
i am so far impress with the image quality, there are problems but it is a good deal for the price cannot beat hat,
 On: 2008-01-11
FOR ALL YOU FOLKS OUT THERE WHO HAVE HD TVS YOU WONT REGRET GETTING THIS CAMCORDER. THE VIDEO IS CLEAR ,SHARP AND COLOURFULL. I HAVE TRIED THREE OTHER CAMCORDRERES SONY,SAMSUNG AND OTHERS AND NONE COME EVEN CLOSE TO THE PICTURE QUALITY OF THIS UNIT......got it for 595.00 shipped from amazon
PROS
excellent video quality
sharp video
good lowlight video quality
built in video light
very portable
lightweight
high definiton playback up to 1080i
CONS
NO PREPACKAGED HD CONVERSION SOFTWARE FOR CREATING YOUR OWN HD EDITING....
On: 2008-01-07
Pros:
-Lens cap (I hated my sony handycam lens cap ruining the souund of my videos hitting the camera in any movement or windy situation)
-Small size and low weight.
-HD Video Quality.
-Integrated Led light (is really helpful)
-Fast response from off to recording.
-Integrated flash for pictures.
-Optical stabilizer really works!
-Good materials.
-Price is really good.
Cons:
-Battery life is ridiculus (get a replacement batttery together with the camera).
-Software included does not helps to download video to PC.
-Battery life indicator is unreliable.
On: 2007-12-26
I order this before Christmas, cheaper on Amazon than "anywhere" legitimate that I could find. Camera is small and light weight, LED light is great outside at night chasing my kids on Christmas Eve...even in low light inside, this wasnt that bad. I have a projection TV, not HighDef or anything and it wasnt grainy...just a little softer on the edges, but way better than my high-8 camera that it replaced. Overall, good so far, battery that came with the camera lasts about 1 tape in length assuming you only tape and do not watch video. Focus is awesomely fast.
On: 2007-12-20
Generally a good camera but why miniDV? I had to switch to HD based rather then winding through tapes
On: 2007-12-18
Normally, Im not the type of person to leave a review for a product. Love to read them, but dont usually feel passionate enough to leave a review. However, the HV10 met and beat my expectations where it mattered, when you get home.
I was initially hesitant to get a video camera because of the bulkiness as well as the fact that you have to lug all of this expensive equipment on your vacation. Also, you feel like youre working when youre filming rather than experiencing you trip. After I arrived home from my trip, I had convinced myself that I was returning the camera.
That is, until I downloaded the video and pictures I took with the camera.
Not only do the pictures look great (not the reason you buy a video camera, but good all the same) but the video is PRICELESS. Let me emphasize this again, I have watched the video I shot over and over and it doesnt lose its value. I feel like Im back on the trip, the clarity is brilliant and I now LOVE the camera.
Im working on a Mac and using iMovie to import the video. If anyone is concerned about the MiniDV tape vs. HDs or MiniDVD, iMovie imported the tapes with ease. Yes, it feels a little analog but I set it, watched TV for an hour, and the tape was in. Also, I used the Premium Sony MiniDV tapes (not the ones specifically that say high definition) and they worked great. I dont think I had one dropped frame or the such. I did have a warning right after I stared filming that said to clean the heads but never again.
I gave the product a 4 out of 5 stars simply because of the effort required with any video camera. I guess I would need the camera to require absolutely no effort to give it five stars. I understand its difficult to show your work in HD currently but I figured its not that far off before Blu-Ray or HD-DVD wins or well skip those formats entirely as small, portable computers and external HDs get bigger in size and cheaper in price. I hope this helps anyone who was wondering about the camera.
On: 2007-12-18
With all the light on in our house (not that we have the best lighting), our video comes out grainy. Disclaimer... I may need to read the manual thoroughly to discover if there is something more I should be doing to improve the quality.
We selected this type of camera so it would be compatible with our Mac, but I really dont like having to do the tape thing again. It Takes longer than real-time to download to our computer. E.g. 30 min of video takes 40 min or so to download.
On: 2007-12-17
Normally, Im not the type of person to leave a review for a product. Love to read them, but dont usually feel passionate enough to leave a review. However, the HV10 met and beat my expectations where it mattered, when you get home.
I was initially hesitant to get a video camera because of the bulkiness as well as the fact that you have to lug all of this expensive equipment on your vacation. Also, you feel like youre working when youre filming rather than experiencing you trip. After I arrived home from my trip, I had convinced myself that I was returning the camera.
That is, until I downloaded the video and pictures I took with the camera.
Not only do the pictures look great (not the reason you buy a video camera, but good all the same) but the video is PRICELESS. Let me emphasize this again, I have watched the video I shot over and over and it doesnt lose its value. I feel like Im back on the trip, the clarity is brilliant and I now LOVE the camera.
Im working on a Mac and using iMovie to import the video. If anyone is concerned about the MiniDV tape vs. HDs or MiniDVD, iMovie imported the tapes with ease. Yes, it feels a little analog but I set it, watched TV for an hour, and the tape was in. Also, I used the Premium Sony MiniDV tapes (not the ones specifically that say high definition) and they worked great. I dont think I had one dropped frame or the such. I did have a warning right after I stared filming that said to clean the heads but never again.
I gave the product a 4 out of 5 stars simply because of the effort required with any video camera. I guess I would need the camera to require absolutely no effort to give it five stars. I understand its difficult to show your work in HD currently but I figured its not that far off before Blu-Ray or HD-DVD wins or well skip those formats entirely as small, portable computers and external HDs get bigger in size and cheaper in price. I hope this helps anyone who was wondering about the camera.
On: 2007-12-16
This is my first camcorder and I decided to go high definition since this is the future and I did not want to buy a camcorder that will be obsolete in a few years. I read the other reviews which describes the weaknesses of the HV-10 which are: (1) No DV tape and DV firewire cable were included in the box. (2) No hot shoe for a separate light and audio mike (3) Uses the "old tech" DV tapes. However, I selected this camcorder for its strengths which are : (1) one of the smallest and lightest high definition camcorders on the market. (I really hate carrying something big and heavy) (2) quality of the video is excellent which is expected of the canons automatic instant focusing system (3) there are numerous exposure controls which are there when you need them. (I will probably use the automatic exposure for 90% of my videos) (4) relative inexpensive due to the old tech DV tapes mechanism. I plan to edit the videos on a PC and burn my own DVD anyway so I did not think the "DV tape" versus "DVD" versus "hard drive" camcorders were not that important. DVD camcorders are nice but some DVD may not be compatible with some DVD players so you have to be careful. The "hard drive" camcorders are the way to go but that would have busted my budget. After having this HV-10 campcorder for a while I did discover additional weaknesses: (1) the zoom lense is difficult to operate without shaking the camcorder (2) the covers to the IEEE and USB parts are held by a rubber attachment which may break. (3) you need a superfast PC to edit high definition videos which is not a weakness of this camera but it is something a buyer should think about before getting a high definition camcorder. The bottomline: This is a good buy if size and weight are important to you and you plan to edit the video on a fast PC and burn your own DVD. For those who dont want to do this, I would get the hard drive camcorders but I would check out the editing features on the hard drive camcorder. If the hard drive camcorder has limited editing features, then I question this advantage.
On: 2007-12-10
First this camera replaced a Panasonic PV GS500 when I lost all my luggage on a flight back from Oregon. It took great video and stills but nothing in comparison to this great little camera which I did purchase from Amazon ~ not worth wasting your time and energy looking elsewhere as you never know if you are going to get gray market or refurbished as some not so honest sellers out there. Have read some reviews where they have complained about the vertical style and size and placement of dials and so on..I am 60 and a big guy..not fat and prefer it to the horizontal layout to my previous cameras. The video quality using just std Panasonic DVC Linear Plus Tapes is amazing using the component video hookup with my Panasonic HD LCD. I only use the tape once as they are cheap enough and when there is a HD burner reasonably priced will buy one and transfer to DVD, but in the meantime I use the composite cables and hook them up to a Sony RDR-CX330 DVD recorder/player I have hooked up to the set in the spare bedroom to and 4 yr old non HD flat screen Sony television, plays back with great color and detail. Then if I play the DVD back in my Sony up convert (1080i) DVD player with the HD set is closer to what I captured to tape. Tired transferring video using a firewire cable between the camera and the Sony recorder/player ~ no go unless you record in non HD ~ so record in HD as this is the reason we bought this camera, watch it on tape or transfer and save for a later date as I outlined above. Also think it takes great still pictures and I like packing just one camera. Sold my Panasonic DMC FZ50 and got a much smaller DMC-TZ3 that will fit in a shirt pocket if I want or need more detailed pictures ~ also from Amazon. The battery that ships with the camera has about 30-40 minutes of run time before I get the change battery symbol, bought a Lenmar LIC315 unit again from Amazon and have gotten up to 130 minutes of continuous use, but in all honesty how many of us shot more than 20-30 minutes of video at a time anyway. I have found the grid markers (white) very helpful when trying to keep the subject horizontally framed, the mic also has in my opinion excellent sound p/u. Also purchased a Hoya 37 MM UV filter to help protect the lens and ordered a Lowepro Z40 camera bag in red as it will hold the camera and extra battery and tape and not much else and has a neat mesh panel on the side for my cell phone. The coach bag that came with the camera is not me and holds the camera and "NO" extras. So have had the camera for a month or so now and could not be more pleased, visited Best Buy and Circuit City ( more expensive + sales tax) to physically see and hold the camera and compare it to other before my purchase and feel I made a good choice as takes above average video and pictures and the size and style and features are spot on...not some fussy amateur or profesional..will be a great camera for family outings and vacations both by train and ship and the occasional car show, its ease of use, quality is what sold me as have had several other Sony and Panasonic video cameras..am sold on Canon in this format and now see what I have missed in waiting.
On: 2007-10-22
It is a great little camera! The only nits I have to pick have to do with my background versus the camera I could afford. It would be nice to have a seperate audio in and I would really like to be able to control when the gain kicks in. Otherwise, its a beautiful image and the sound pickup from the on-board mic is surprising crisp and clean. Extremely good buy for the price I paid!
On: 2007-09-27
The price on this is great and the picture quality as well. Its very clear.
On: 2007-09-23
i like the camcorder , it has a great picture and an amazing quality .
i didnt like the still capture alot , it is better than sony RS300 , as it takes a huge number of still photos and it has a great sequence option . but the still photo quality isnt the best .
also the battery life is very weak , when recording on high definition video it has a maximum of 1 hour .
it is the best on its price categorey .
On: 2007-09-08
I really like this camera. The picture quality is wonderful, it feels nice to hold and is a great size. The image stabilization feature is also very good. I give it 4 out of 5. Its loses one point for no HDMI and for the microphone location which is on the top at the back. The battery life of the included battery is not adequate, so you will want to look at purchasing a 2nd battery. Overall this is a really good purchase especially at the current amazon price.
On: 2007-09-02
We bought this camera before our vacation. The shipping was so fast, thanks Amazon. We didnt have much time to learn the features but we had great movies just in auto setting. This is a really good camera. The picture quality is great, even in regular tv the videos turn out so clear and nice. It is very light weight and looks beautiful. I am very pleased with this camera over all.
On: 2007-09-01
We bought this camera before our vacation. The shipping was so fast, thanks Amazon. We didnt have much time to learn the features but we had great movies just in auto setting. This is a really good camera. The picture quality is great, even in regular tv the videos turn out so clear and nice. It is very light weight and looks beautiful. I am very pleased with this camera over all.
On: 2007-08-21
Ive had this for a couple of weeks now. The great price at Amazon and the overall high reviews proved too much to resist. I take a lot of family videos and wanted to move to HD without breaking the bank. The HV10 has allowed me to do this.
When reading the other reviews, I found myself immediately hesitant to purchase the HV10 because of the comments regarding it having no shoe for a camcorder light and no microphone jack. Upon further reflection, however, I realized that my current camcorder has both of those things, plus I own an attachable light and it came with a microphone. Although it is always nice to have these options, I also realized that I never use them. My video-taking style is more of a "grab and shoot" approach, a style for which the HV10 is a perfect fit. The lack of HDVI connectivity is a bummer, but not a big deal for me. I have found the component connections to work quite well and the picture quality is excellent (I have a 60" HDTV).
I have ordered a second battery, although so far the one the unit came with has not failed me. I also ordered a seperate charger. If you shop around and stay away from the Canon brand, you can get these for quite a reasonable price. Same goes for a firewire cable.
The unit is certainly small, which takes some getting used to in regard to working the zoom button, etc. I adjusted the strap on the side for a little extra room and after practicing with it for a while, I have not had any issues in this area. However, you can expect a bit of a trade-off here. With a compact size come compact buttons. If at all possible, you might want to try to physically see the HV10 before ordering. After reading the comments and seeing the photo of it sitting in the palm of a hand, I was actually expecting it to be even smaller than it really is. Dont get me wrong, it is a nice, handy size, but dont expect to drop it into your shirt pocket or anything like that.
It certainly does not take "stunning" video in low light conditions, but I have found it to be quite adequate in this area; not nearly as bad as I was expecting it to be after reading the reviews. It seems to switch to more of an "analog look" when in extreme low light, but it is as good or better than my current, non-HD camcorders, including a 3 CCD Panasonic PV-GS500.
I love the portabiliy, like the fact it uses mini tapes, and the picture quality is excellent. I have not tried taking any photos and will probably rarely use this feature anyway, but I did buy and install a 2GB mini SD card.
I consider this to be a great family hi-def camcorder at a great price and have been completely satisfied with the purchase.
 On: 2007-07-20
The HV10 is precisely an example of the kind of device the term "bleeding edge" of technology was coined for...
While it delivers superior image quality in a super compact package, it disappoints in a few areas which some may find significant but other might be willing to overlook. I fall into the former group, and thus decided to return the HV10 and get a competing "bleeding edge" product ;) (Panasonic HDC-SD1 AVCHD 3CCD Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder with 12x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom
It seems Canon rushed to get a consumer HD camcorder product to market and in doing so they simply dropped the ball in the human factors engineering and ergonomic design of this device. The controls are extremely awkward -- in particular trying to manipulate the zoom given the way the device is positioned in your hand by the hand strap was very uncomfortable and even physically painful after only a few minutes because it gave me a cramp in my hand. The menus and other controls arent great either but I could have lived with them -- the ergonomic issue is what really made this device unusable for me.
Also, the microphone picks up a lot of noise generated by the device itself, so theres a constant background buzz sound from the motors of the MiniDV mechanism -- again, some might find this annoying as I did, other might be willing to overlook it.
So bottom line, this camera while novel, suffers from many of the typical usability shortcomings of a first generation product... But at its current price point however some might willing to put up with these as the picture quality is indeed amazing.
On: 2007-07-19
I strongly considered the HV20 and HC7 but ended up buying the HV10 due to its smaller form factor. The thought was that the only way to get good video is to carry it - and Ive had other DV camcorders that sat in the bag because we didnt want to lug them around. Weve shot 30 minutes of video of the dogs in the backyard and some indoor shots and we are thrilled. It puts out a wonderful 1080i image on my 1080p front projection setup of 123". Does everything we want and well be testing it more when we go on our next cruise this September in Hawaii.
Is it perfect? No....but nothing is when it comes to electronics. I would have liked HDMI output, higher resolution still photos, and even a smaller form factor, and a little better battery life, but there is always something missing. Would I buy it again? In a heartbeat - especially at these prices...
On: 2007-06-28
I dont want to say more, Camera is great, and has very crisp picture quality. Still camera is good and I dont think I need a separate still digital camera after this.
On: 2007-06-24
This was my first camcorder purchase and the "out of the box" experience was a let-down: no 1394 cable, no HD DV tape, not even rudimentary (cripled) video-transfer/editing software, not even a low capacity mem card to click a few pictures, a battery with an expected use duration of 45 minutes, and the USB cable can transfer pictures but *not* video (duh. I bought a camcorder, and Canon thinks transfering still images is more important than transfering video?). USB2.0 could handle video transfer rates. Why not use that? A "reasonable" assumption when you see that a USB cable is included with your camcorder is that 1. it is USB2.0 and 2. that it can be used to transfer video to your computer. My brand new HP notebookbook computer has lots of USB2.0 ports but doesnt have even a single 1394 connection on it. It may turn out this is industry practice among camcorder vendors, but shame on them: it flies in the face of reasonable assumptions that a first time buyer would have. It takes time, effort, and dollars to fill in the gaps. Honestly, these consumer marketing games cheapen a brand, not enhance it. If you have all these extra parts already or if you knew what to expect because of prior experience with camcorder purchases: good for you. However, Canon should be as upfront about whats needed by typical users and *not* in the box as it is in trumpeting whats included. Otherwise, buying a camcorder becomes an extended research project on exploring "caveat emptor" and checking every conceivable assumption, which wastes even more time.
I cant say for sure what the digital video quality is because my local Radio Shack wanted $53 plus tax for the required DV cable, and so I ordered a $12 cable from Amazon and am waiting for it to arrive. I seriously doubt the COGS for such a cable is more than a dollar in the volumes that Canon buys at--certainly less than the cost for the gasoline I burned going R/T to Radio Shack. I did review 50 minutes of video using the included component video cables, and I would rate the video on my Aquos 1080p LCD HDTV as just "OK" because the colors were noticeably saturated in comparison with digital video sources (HD Discovery channel, DVDs, etc). Because the signal over the component cable is analog, Im not sure how good a proxy this is for the actual digital video that the HV10 will transfer when Im properly hooked up.
Maybe I should be grateful that Canon included a battery for the remote control. No doubt some sophisticated buyers already have such batteries and are annoyed they had to pay an extra fifty cents for their HV10 because Canon included a battery for the remote in each box.
On: 2007-06-18
I love my HV10, great features, good price. Low light performance is not great, but still a great picture for a consumer level camera. I love the Canon lens, picture is always so beautiful.
by: jimblock On: 2007-06-02
I have to admit that I probably would not have purchased the HV10 when it first came out -- for the full product price. But many people did because it was (and is) an excellent High Definition camcorder. It is now selling for about half the price it originally listed for and this makes it a baragin, as well.
The HV10 has an excellent video picture -- in daylight it has as good a picture as any of the non-professional HDV camcorders. Many have knocked it for its low-light performance, but so far I have found it to be comparable to many of the camcorders I owned in the past. (Certainly not as good as in bright light, but definitely worth watching.)
Add to this the fact that (for a camcorder) it takes quite passable still photos, with many of the options for still photography that are usually only available on a dedicated still digital video camera. I would not buy the HV10 if still photography is your primary interest, but it takes 3.2 Megapixel images that look good as long as you dont try to print them much larger than 5x7 or so.
The form factor of the camera is definitely a matter of personal taste. I happen to like the small upright design that the HV10 shares with the Canon Optura line and many Sony camcorders. (In fact, I previously owned two Sony camcorders with this form factor). It may help that I have fairly small hands. Before purchasing it, my wife and I compared it to the newer Canon HV20 and the Sony HC-7. We preferred the look and feel of the HV10.
It does lack several features that may affect your desire to purchase it -- as many have said, it lacks any means to add an external microphone or headphones. The sound from the built-in Mic, however, is fine for my videotaping needs. (I own a directional mic for one of my Sony camcorders, and it does improve sound, but I find that I rarely use it.) Others have complained about the lack of an HDMI connector. I dont mind its omission (although it would have been a nice addition) because the componet output (using the provided cable) is similar in quality. I use the iLink connection (also known as Firewire) to connect it directly to my Sony HDTV -- which not only transfers video and sound, but allows me to control the camcorder with the Sonys remote. The iLink/Firewire connection also provides for video connection to a Mac or PC.
The HV10 weighs less than 1 pound and feels solid. It is handsome with ebony and silver design. (In comparison, I was unimpressed with the look and feel of the newer HV20 -- it feels too "plastic" and not as well made.)
I consider the fact that it records in HDV on miniDV tapes one of its advantages. AVCHD camcorders that record on miniDVDs or Hard Disk do not (currently at least) generate video that is easy to edit with most of todays video editing software.
The HV10 is my first purchase of a Canon camcorder (most of my previous camcorders were made by Sony), so I was not sure what to expect, but the quality is excellent. I miss the touch screen found on current Sony models (many people dont like the touch screen, but I do), and it is a bit harder to find Canon accessories than Sony accessories, but other wise I am quite satisfied. You probably will want to invest in another battery (the larger Canon BP-315 batteryCanon BP-315 Battery Pack for Optura 600 & HV10 Camcorders will last approximately twice as long as the supplied battery), and at some point you may want to purchase a wide-angle accessory lensCanon WD-H37C, Wide Angle Converter Lens for DC40, Optura 10 and Optura 20 Camcorders, 37mm Mounting Threads. (Like most consumer camcorders, the 10X zoom is somewhat lacking on the wide-angle side.)
As a Mac user, I am pleased to report that it works with with iMovie HD and iPhoto right out of the box with no need for additional software.
The HV10 is apparently being phased out for the newer (but larger) HV20. This means that you can pick up the HV10 for a bargain price while they are still available. In my case, thats worth the fifth star in the rating.
On: 2007-06-01
I have to admit that I probably would not have purchased the HV10 when it first came out -- for the full product price. But many people did because it was (and is) an excellent High Definition camcorder. It is now selling for about half the price it originally listed for and this makes it a baragin, as well.
The HV10 has an excellent video picture -- in daylight it has as good a picture as any of the non-professional HDV camcorders. Many have knocked it for its low-light performance, but so far I have found it to be comparable to many of the camcorders I owned in the past. (Certainly not as good as in bright light, but definitely worth watching.)
Add to this the fact that (for a camcorder) it takes quite passable still photos, with many of the options for still photography that are usually only available on a dedicated still digital video camera. I would not buy the HV10 if still photography is your primary interest, but it takes 3.2 Megapixel images that look good as long as you dont try to print them much larger than 5x7 or so.
The form factor of the camera is definitely a matter of personal taste. I happen to like the small upright design that the HV10 shares with the Canon Optura line and many Sony camcorders. (In fact, I previously owned two Sony camcorders with this form factor). It may help that I have fairly small hands. Before purchasing it, my wife and I compared it to the newer Canon HV20 and the Sony HC-7. We preferred the look and feel of the HV10.
It does lack several features that may affect your desire to purchase it -- as many have said, it lacks any means to add an external microphone or headphones. The sound from the built-in Mic, however, is fine for my videotaping needs. (I own a directional mic for one of my Sony camcorders, and it does improve sound, but I find that I rarely use it.) Others have complained about the lack of an HDMI connector. I dont mind its omission (although it would have been a nice addition) because the componet output (using the provided cable) is similar in quality. I use the iLink connection (also known as Firewire) to connect it directly to my Sony HDTV -- which not only transfers video and sound, but allows me to control the camcorder with the Sonys remote. The iLink/Firewire connection also provides for video connection to a Mac or PC.
The HV10 weighs less than 1 pound and feels solid. It is handsome with ebony and silver design. (In comparison, I was unimpressed with the look and feel of the newer HV20 -- it feels too "plastic" and not as well made.)
I consider the fact that it records in HDV on miniDV tapes one of its advantages. AVCHD camcorders that record on miniDVDs or Hard Disk do not (currently at least) generate video that is easy to edit with most of todays video editing software.
The HV10 is my first purchase of a Canon camcorder (most of my previous camcorders were made by Sony), so I was not sure what to expect, but the quality is excellent. I miss the touch screen found on current Sony models (many people dont like the touch screen, but I do), and it is a bit harder to find Canon accessories than Sony accessories, but other wise I am quite satisfied. You probably will want to invest in another battery (the larger Canon BP-315 batteryCanon BP-315 Battery Pack for Optura 600 & HV10 Camcorders will last approximately twice as long as the supplied battery), and at some point you may want to purchase a wide-angle accessory lensCanon WD-H37C, Wide Angle Converter Lens for DC40, Optura 10 and Optura 20 Camcorders, 37mm Mounting Threads. (Like most consumer camcorders, the 10X zoom is somewhat lacking on the wide-angle side.)
As a Mac user, I am pleased to report that it works with with iMovie HD and iPhoto right out of the box with no need for additional software.
The HV10 is apparently being phased out for the newer (but larger) HV20. This means that you can pick up the HV10 for a bargain price while they are still available. In my case, thats worth the fifth star in the rating.
by: silverace On: 2007-05-12
Overview:
Running on the HDV MPEG-2 standard, the Canon HV10 allows many users of miniDV camcorders to continue using and playing their miniDV tapes theyve recorded and have, while providing them with the added option of recording in either HD or regular mode onto MiniDV tapes. The HV10 has a slim, pocketable body, so its very easy to take with you on long trips without feeling like you have a huge rock tied behind you to slow you down.
Minuses:
* No external light/mic jacks - buy the HV20 if you want these.
* No HDMI output - buy the HV20 if you want this.
* Cant change tapes if the camcorder is on a tripod - bottom load, again - buy the HV20 if you want this. But keep in mind that bottom load reduces the amount of dropout causing dust from falling into the tape transport bay (a good thing).
* Viewfinder is decent, but not the highest resolution viewfinder around - but I almost always use the LCD panel so its not a big concern.
* No manual focus/aperture rings around the lens. You can adjust manual focus using the rear menu dial, but its not the same as a professional camcorder like the $5000+ Canon H1 series. (then again, almost no consumer level camcorder for <$1000 has this feature....)
* Low light, below 1 light bulb of 60w in a bedroom, will result in vertical lines appearing in the video if you do not use slow-shutter mode (which is on by default). Buy the HV20 if you want better super-low-light video. Otherwise, Im not concerned because I dont film travel videos outside in such dark places - do you? I find myself filming in nicely lit places indoors and out, so video quality is great.
Pluses:
* Small, light, compact. The lightest, most compact HDV camcorder available today. Ive tried the Panasonic, Sony, Canon, etc. and this is the lightest you can get today. Its also the only one that fits into my jacket pocket without a problem, and I can go all day long on trips using this camcorder without feeling like my arm has fallen off - its light enough that fatigue doesnt settle in.
* 2MP 16:9 / 3MP 4:3 still photo mode
I love how I can push the photo snap button anytime Im filming, and get a nice 2MP photo at the same time w/o interrupting my filming! Its so nice and my 4x6" prints come out looking saturated, colorful, and nice w/o much adjustment, if any. They really pop with color, and Im very happy with the photo mode on this camcorder.
(Im the type that looks at the individual pixels on prints, worry about the little things on digicams, but honestly, for what it is -- a camcorder camera photo -- Im happy and satisfied with what Im getting. Just keep in mind, you are not going to get the same as a 10+MP dSLR off any camcorder! For 4x6" prints, you will get a nice print.)
You can also capture still frames off the video as its playing back, and make photos from these as well!
1GB MiniSD card will let you go for days on a trip and let you take 600+ photos w/o a problem. Its so wonderful how I can just keep taking snapshot after snapshot w/o worrying about running out of space!
* MiniDV tape.
Yes, there are camcorders with hard drives, flash drives, etc. but in the end, where are you going to archive HiDef videos? Right now, nobody knows if its going to be HD DVD or BluRay thatll win out, so realistically, there is no standard optical format that you can archive HiDef videos thatll stick around for a long time.
HD camcorders are good for those that have long filming times and will convert to DVDs later on the PC -but if you run out of room on a trip, without a PC, youre dead in the water; flash drives are great for sports, extreme activities and locations (think super cold, super hot) - but again, are limited by the small sizes of the cards (consumer camcorder-wise. Pro-level P2 Panasonics at $5000+ can go longer, but expensive..)
Tapes last a long time - most of us have VHS tapes from 10-20+ years ago that we can pop into the VCR and play today. miniDV tapes will last a long time in proper storage, and are the most ideal format for long-term archival storage of HiDef videos until some form of HiDef optical standard is decided upon.
Additionally, everyone has MiniDV tapes in all of the major travel spots - so when youre out of tape, you can easily buy more tapes!
* MPEG-2 HDV format.
Look around people. You see Sony/Panasonic pushing their AVCHD MPEG-4 format. Great, so whats the difference?
HDV uses the MPEG-2 format, same as on DVDs.
It records 1440x1080i format onto tapes, and uses the 1.33 aspect ratio on playback to fill a 1920x1080 HiDef monitor screen. (stretches it out slightly horizontally to fill the screen).
AVCHD uses MPEG-4 format, which is newer than MPEG-2.
It records into true 1920x1080 format, so its a 1:1 ratio on playback.
MPEG-4 at the same bitrate as MPEG-2 can produce better images, theoretically, but every single Japanese consumer magazine review of the current (5/2007) AVCHD camcorders vs. the HDV camcorders finds... that the Canon HV10/20 series are among the very best out there, beating everything except the very latest Panasonic AVCHD flash drive, 3CCD, 1920x1080 camcorder that just came out (which has similar image quality as the HV10/20 series).
Thus, for now, there is no advantage of the AVCHD format for consumers image wise because HDV produces similar quality.
Also, playback of MPEG-2 HDV video takes far less computer power than MPEG-4 AVCHD playback. Try playing AVCHD on a 3Ghz P4 and youll find it stuttering and praying it can keep up! (ie. on a computer thats not that old at all) HDV video has no trouble at all playing on a 3Ghz P4. Thus, AVCHD forces users to buy a new dual to 8 core PC just to edit, playback, view their videos w/o stuttering full-screen! (and Ive tested quite a bit -- you can too! Download and try playing HDV vs AVCHD raw full screen videos. Nero Showtime, QuickTime, Windows Media Player, Media Player CLassic, etc. all cant make the AVCHD play smoothly on recent, older computers; HDV plays fine.)
* Editing
Oh, thankfully, the HV10 is NOT a AVCHD MPEG-4 camcorder! Why?
Because=== not one ===major video editing program today supports AVCHD video editing! Not Final Cut Pro, not Premiere, not Vegas Video, not Avid, etc!!!!
Thankfully, all of them support HDV MPEG-2 video editing, so unlike the sorry AVCHD camcorder buyers who cant make edits, HV10/HV20 owners can.
Videos drop right into Sony Vegas Video 7 w/o a problem, load up just like any regular DV video, and effects/edits happen just as smoothly! The workflow is identical for capture, editing and output, so its a very, very smooth transition over to HDV.
(Vegas Video and its counterparts from Sony are very nice editors to use. Theyve got lower end software for $100 thatll work nicely.)
Also, keep in mind that HDV requires less processor power to decode/encode vs AVCHD, so doing renders of the final edited video is faster using HDV source video vs. AVCHD.
* TV Output
Stunningly crisp. Honestly cant see why Id even need HDMI, and composite/RCA does just fine for viewing the videos on HiDef & regular TVs. This is the stuff that youd typically see off HiDef broadcasts, and youve just brought it home after buying the HV10!
* Reliable, FAAAST autofocus!
The dual AF (probably using infrared active focusing in addition to passive AF) is the best invention since swiss cheese! Beats the other camcorders on the market by far!!! Locks onto subjects in <1 second if not faster all the time, and its really, really nice and reliable. No more annoying hunting or waiting for AF to lock like I used to worry about on my older camcorders.
Nothing is perfect, so you will still have the rare hunting/AF problem, but otherwise, I cant find anything better on the market from Sony, Panasonic, etc. No worries for me at all here=)
* Daylight viewable LCD panel
No LCD panel will retain the 100% quality under the harshest direct outdoor summer sunlight, but this panel does a darn good job indoors and out. You can always see something on the panel, and it works good for me. Im not squinting or turning at all to see whats on the screen, so its a nice panel.
Indoors, its simply juicy colorful and playing back videos and photos look better than on my Sony T9 cameras screen!
---
So that said, the HV10 is well worth the $800 or so its going for today (5/2007), and money well spent for anyone looking to buy the best available compact HiDef camcorder today. Other camcorders may have marginally better image quality (that Panasonic 3CCD 1920x1080p camcorder that just came out), but they certainly dont produce more than 1/2 a star on any Japnese consumer ranking, nor do they have the compact size and shape (and the Panasonics LCD screen, AF reliability, and weight are just horrible vs. the Canon HV10). I had time to sit and play with all of the latest and greatest this week in Akihabara, and I still couldnt find anything better in a compact HiDef camcorder than my HV10 released last year. Thats how good it is!
The only thing thatll beat a HV10? Its replacement, which I suspect will be out closer to Christmas this year (since most makers are on a twice-yearly or once a year release schedule for camcorders).
by: silverace On: 2007-05-11
Overview:
Running on the HDV MPEG-2 standard, the Canon HV10 allows many users of miniDV camcorders to continue using and playing their miniDV tapes theyve recorded and have, while providing them with the added option of recording in either HD or regular mode onto MiniDV tapes. The HV10 has a slim, pocketable body, so its very easy to take with you on long trips without feeling like you have a huge rock tied behind you to slow you down.
Minuses:
* No external light/mic jacks - buy the HV20 if you want these.
* No HDMI output - buy the HV20 if you want this.
* Cant change tapes if the camcorder is on a tripod - bottom load, again - buy the HV20 if you want this. But keep in mind that bottom load reduces the amount of dropout causing dust from falling into the tape transport bay (a good thing).
* Viewfinder is decent, but not the highest resolution viewfinder around - but I almost always use the LCD panel so its not a big concern.
* No manual focus/aperture rings around the lens. You can adjust manual focus using the rear menu dial, but its not the same as a professional camcorder like the $5000+ Canon H1 series. (then again, almost no consumer level camcorder for <$1000 has this feature....)
* Low light, below 1 light bulb of 60w in a bedroom, will result in vertical lines appearing in the video if you do not use slow-shutter mode (which is on by default). Buy the HV20 if you want better super-low-light video. Otherwise, Im not concerned because I dont film travel videos outside in such dark places - do you? I find myself filming in nicely lit places indoors and out, so video quality is great.
Pluses:
* Small, light, compact. The lightest, most compact HDV camcorder available today. Ive tried the Panasonic, Sony, Canon, etc. and this is the lightest you can get today. Its also the only one that fits into my jacket pocket without a problem, and I can go all day long on trips using this camcorder without feeling like my arm has fallen off - its light enough that fatigue doesnt settle in.
* 2MP 16:9 / 3MP 4:3 still photo mode
I love how I can push the photo snap button anytime Im filming, and get a nice 2MP photo at the same time w/o interrupting my filming! Its so nice and my 4x6" prints come out looking saturated, colorful, and nice w/o much adjustment, if any. They really pop with color, and Im very happy with the photo mode on this camcorder.
(Im the type that looks at the individual pixels on prints, worry about the little things on digicams, but honestly, for what it is -- a camcorder camera photo -- Im happy and satisfied with what Im getting. Just keep in mind, you are not going to get the same as a 10+MP dSLR off any camcorder! For 4x6" prints, you will get a nice print.)
You can also capture still frames off the video as its playing back, and make photos from these as well!
1GB MiniSD card will let you go for days on a trip and let you take 600+ photos w/o a problem. Its so wonderful how I can just keep taking snapshot after snapshot w/o worrying about running out of space!
* MiniDV tape.
Yes, there are camcorders with hard drives, flash drives, etc. but in the end, where are you going to archive HiDef videos? Right now, nobody knows if its going to be HD DVD or BluRay thatll win out, so realistically, there is no standard optical format that you can archive HiDef videos thatll stick around for a long time.
HD camcorders are good for those that have long filming times and will convert to DVDs later on the PC -but if you run out of room on a trip, without a PC, youre dead in the water; flash drives are great for sports, extreme activities and locations (think super cold, super hot) - but again, are limited by the small sizes of the cards (consumer camcorder-wise. Pro-level P2 Panasonics at $5000+ can go longer, but expensive..)
Tapes last a long time - most of us have VHS tapes from 10-20+ years ago that we can pop into the VCR and play today. miniDV tapes will last a long time in proper storage, and are the most ideal format for long-term archival storage of HiDef videos until some form of HiDef optical standard is decided upon.
Additionally, everyone has MiniDV tapes in all of the major travel spots - so when youre out of tape, you can easily buy more tapes!
* MPEG-2 HDV format.
Look around people. You see Sony/Panasonic pushing their AVCHD MPEG-4 format. Great, so whats the difference?
HDV uses the MPEG-2 format, same as on DVDs.
It records 1440x1080i format onto tapes, and uses the 1.33 aspect ratio on playback to fill a 1920x1080 HiDef monitor screen. (stretches it out slightly horizontally to fill the screen).
AVCHD uses MPEG-4 format, which is newer than MPEG-2.
It records into true 1920x1080 format, so its a 1:1 ratio on playback.
MPEG-4 at the same bitrate as MPEG-2 can produce better images, theoretically, but every single Japanese consumer magazine review of the current (5/2007) AVCHD camcorders vs. the HDV camcorders finds... that the Canon HV10/20 series are among the very best out there, beating everything except the very latest Panasonic AVCHD flash drive, 3CCD, 1920x1080 camcorder that just came out (which has similar image quality as the HV10/20 series).
Thus, for now, there is no advantage of the AVCHD format for consumers image wise because HDV produces similar quality.
Also, playback of MPEG-2 HDV video takes far less computer power than MPEG-4 AVCHD playback. Try playing AVCHD on a 3Ghz P4 and youll find it stuttering and praying it can keep up! (ie. on a computer thats not that old at all) HDV video has no trouble at all playing on a 3Ghz P4. Thus, AVCHD forces users to buy a new dual to 8 core PC just to edit, playback, view their videos w/o stuttering full-screen! (and Ive tested quite a bit -- you can too! Download and try playing HDV vs AVCHD raw full screen videos. Nero Showtime, QuickTime, Windows Media Player, Media Player CLassic, etc. all cant make the AVCHD play smoothly on recent, older computers; HDV plays fine.)
* Editing
Oh, thankfully, the HV10 is NOT a AVCHD MPEG-4 camcorder! Why?
Because=== not one ===major video editing program today supports AVCHD video editing! Not Final Cut Pro, not Premiere, not Vegas Video, not Avid, etc!!!!
Thankfully, all of them support HDV MPEG-2 video editing, so unlike the sorry AVCHD camcorder buyers who cant make edits, HV10/HV20 owners can.
Videos drop right into Sony Vegas Video 7 w/o a problem, load up just like any regular DV video, and effects/edits happen just as smoothly! The workflow is identical for capture, editing and output, so its a very, very smooth transition over to HDV.
(Vegas Video and its counterparts from Sony are very nice editors to use. Theyve got lower end software for $100 thatll work nicely.)
Also, keep in mind that HDV requires less processor power to decode/encode vs AVCHD, so doing renders of the final edited video is faster using HDV source video vs. AVCHD.
* TV Output
Stunningly crisp. Honestly cant see why Id even need HDMI, and composite/RCA does just fine for viewing the videos on HiDef & regular TVs. This is the stuff that youd typically see off HiDef broadcasts, and youve just brought it home after buying the HV10!
* Reliable, FAAAST autofocus!
The dual AF (probably using infrared active focusing in addition to passive AF) is the best invention since swiss cheese! Beats the other camcorders on the market by far!!! Locks onto subjects in <1 second if not faster all the time, and its really, really nice and reliable. No more annoying hunting or waiting for AF to lock like I used to worry about on my older camcorders.
Nothing is perfect, so you will still have the rare hunting/AF problem, but otherwise, I cant find anything better on the market from Sony, Panasonic, etc. No worries for me at all here=)
* Daylight viewable LCD panel
No LCD panel will retain the 100% quality under the harshest direct outdoor summer sunlight, but this panel does a darn good job indoors and out. You can always see something on the panel, and it works good for me. Im not squinting or turning at all to see whats on the screen, so its a nice panel.
Indoors, its simply juicy colorful and playing back videos and photos look better than on my Sony T9 cameras screen!
---
So that said, the HV10 is well worth the $800 or so its going for today (5/2007), and money well spent for anyone looking to buy the best available compact HiDef camcorder today. Other camcorders may have marginally better image quality (that Panasonic 3CCD 1920x1080p camcorder that just came out), but they certainly dont produce more than 1/2 a star on any Japnese consumer ranking, nor do they have the compact size and shape (and the Panasonics LCD screen, AF reliability, and weight are just horrible vs. the Canon HV10). I had time to sit and play with all of the latest and greatest this week in Akihabara, and I still couldnt find anything better in a compact HiDef camcorder than my HV10 released last year. Thats how good it is!
The only thing thatll beat a HV10? Its replacement, which I suspect will be out closer to Christmas this year (since most makers are on a twice-yearly or once a year release schedule for camcorders).
by: sell5813 On: 2007-05-05
really nice camcorder for its price.
But I would like to get one with HDD instead of MiniDV tape. Last time I brought a Canon camcorder with MiniDV for $1600, and it did not last long due to the tape head failure. So I would not get another camcorder that requires tape.
Canon is lagging behind other brand to produce camcorder using hard disk drive. I wish they have one, since its optics are so good and its sensor also good in quality.
On: 2007-05-04
really nice camcorder for its price.
But I would like to get one with HDD instead of MiniDV tape. Last time I brought a Canon camcorder with MiniDV for $1600, and it did not last long due to the tape head failure. So I would not get another camcorder that requires tape.
Canon is lagging behind other brand to produce camcorder using hard disk drive. I wish they have one, since its optics are so good and its sensor also good in quality.
by: Anonymous On: 2007-04-19
The camcorder was fairly easy to learn and use. The recorded video came out very clear and crisp. I highly recommend it.
by: wiredanime On: 2007-02-17
Im a film student and I absolutely love this camera. Its great for just regular consumer functions (filming family events, etc.) and guerrilla film making (for those times when you need to get footage but a large pro camera is just too conspicuous). Ive used the Canon Optura in the past and it was wonderful...this camera far surpasses it.
For those people complaining about the lack of accessories and software, Canon is not the company to hold you hand on this, people. First of all, if you want the good batteries, youre gonna have to pay for them...thats true of most of Canons (and really, any) quality cameras (consumer and professional alike). Get over it because its worth the money if you take care of them, they last FOREVER. I havent had to replace a battery in 5 years.
Second, this camera takes excellent footage for what it is...a consumer based camera. And for a consumer camera, you cant beat it. Its great in bright and low light and the only way you would get better footage is if you bought a $6,000 to $10,000 professional camera.
Third, why are all these people thinking this camera comes with software and firewire. For one thing, if you have Windows (anything later than 98), it comes with video software pre-installed (crappy though it may be) and all you have to do is hook it up. Plug and play right into the program. If you have Win 98, you dont have any business trying to edit video on that old thing anyway. If you have a Mac...its even easier because of iMovie. Besides, the only good video editing software costs anywhere from $600 to $1500 and whatever crummy software they would include would be the same quality (or less quality if you have a mac) than what is already pre-installed on you system anyway. As far was the firewire issue, I know my new laptop didnt come with a firewire port installed, I had to buy one and install it myself. The people who actually use firewire (and knew about it BEFORE getting this camera) typically already own at least a couple of them. And really, how hard is it to by a firewire cable? Its like 10 bucks at any store that sells electronics...its hardly the ordeal people are making it out to be. Whats more important is making sure your computer can even support the firewire in the first place (which, if youre doing video...you need firewire because its faster and better quality than USB-2).
All in all, its a great camera and dont let the people that are too lazy to do a little leg work (getting the firewire and actually looking at their systems to know they already own the software) dissuade you from buying this camera, because its totally worth it. And yes, the battery is extra...but think of how much youre saving in the long run (since they last forever!)
On: 2007-02-16
Im a film student and I absolutely love this camera. Its great for just regular consumer functions (filming family events, etc.) and guerrilla film making (for those times when you need to get footage but a large pro camera is just too conspicuous). Ive used the Canon Optura in the past and it was wonderful...this camera far surpasses it.
For those people complaining about the lack of accessories and software, Canon is not the company to hold you hand on this, people. First of all, if you want the good batteries, youre gonna have to pay for them...thats true of most of Canons (and really, any) quality cameras (consumer and professional alike). Get over it because its worth the money if you take care of them, they last FOREVER. I havent had to replace a battery in 5 years.
Second, this camera takes excellent footage for what it is...a consumer based camera. And for a consumer camera, you cant beat it. Its great in bright and low light and the only way you would get better footage is if you bought a $6,000 to $10,000 professional camera.
Third, why are all these people thinking this camera comes with software and firewire. For one thing, if you have Windows (anything later than 98), it comes with video software pre-installed (crappy though it may be) and all you have to do is hook it up. Plug and play right into the program. If you have Win 98, you dont have any business trying to edit video on that old thing anyway. If you have a Mac...its even easier because of iMovie. Besides, the only good video editing software costs anywhere from $600 to $1500 and whatever crummy software they would include would be the same quality (or less quality if you have a mac) than what is already pre-installed on you system anyway. As far was the firewire issue, I know my new laptop didnt come with a firewire port installed, I had to buy one and install it myself. The people who actually use firewire (and knew about it BEFORE getting this camera) typically already own at least a couple of them. And really, how hard is it to by a firewire cable? Its like 10 bucks at any store that sells electronics...its hardly the ordeal people are making it out to be. Whats more important is making sure your computer can even support the firewire in the first place (which, if youre doing video...you need firewire because its faster and better quality than USB-2).
All in all, its a great camera and dont let the people that are too lazy to do a little leg work (getting the firewire and actually looking at their systems to know they already own the software) dissuade you from buying this camera, because its totally worth it. And yes, the battery is extra...but think of how much youre saving in the long run (since they last forever!)
On: 2007-02-14
This is an amazing camera, simply put. Compact and portable with incredible detail and satisfactory low light functionality - I love it. The ergonomics are easy to get used to and the battery life is not all that bad either. If you hunt around, you hear complaints about low light quality, lack of HDMI, lack of mic input, etc., etc., but in fact, Ive found no issues with this camera after shooting ample footage and have been nothing but amazed at watching the output on my HDTV. If youre not a professional videographer, techno-snob, or AV geek, but ratehr an average family man like me who simply wants a great up-to-date camera that even your wife can throw in her purse and use whenever and wherever with ease, this is a no brainer buy. Two thumbs up!
On: 2007-02-14
This camcorder has incredible high definition picture quality and its very easy in use. It is very small that makes it very convenient to carry it with you everywhere. Because of the small size it is a bit difficult in the beginning to handle it well and control the zoom but after some time you are getting used to it with no problem. The lack of HDMI, and microphone input are minor shortcomings for this camera as you can also have HD quality to your TV with component connection and you very rarely will need to use external microphone in a small non professional camcorder like this. In contrary to the theoretical characteristics, it shoots great in low light indoor environments. For very low light environments there is the flash light. The image quality in general under any circumstances its just perfect. The only serious weakness is the motor noise from the tape that is recorded along with other sounds from the microphone in sillent environments. Other environment sounds are captured great in very detail. The battery is also limited but having a second one you can easily solve this problem. However not using the player mode much and avoiding the integrated screen to shoot, one battery pack could be enough for one day moderate use. I think its the perfect camera for general purpose.
On: 2007-02-13
This is an amazing camera, simply put. Compact and portable with incredible detail and satisfactory low light functionality - I love it. The ergonomics are easy to get used to and the battery life is not all that bad either. If you hunt around, you hear complaints about low light quality, lack of HDMI, lack of mic input, etc., etc., but in fact, Ive found no issues with this camera after shooting ample footage and have been nothing but amazed at watching the output on my HDTV. If youre not a professional videographer, techno-snob, or AV geek, but ratehr an average family man like me who simply wants a great up-to-date camera that even your wife can throw in her purse and use whenever and wherever with ease, this is a no brainer buy. Two thumbs up!
On: 2007-01-27
I just received the Canon HV10 today. The first problem was simple. The remote device battery pocket refused to open. I tried in every way to open it to insert the battery with no luck. I called Canon and the lady there said yes it was very difficult as she had similar complaints. I finally opened it scaring the plastic case with a sharp knife. Second was the manual. Poorly written and too small for these old eyes. I will have to download it as a
PDF file and print it in larger type. The third problem is that there were four very noticable white spots and four black spots on the picture when projected on my 61" screen. I called Canon again. The tech man said look at the LCD screen on the camera to see if they were there and indeed they were so back the camera goes. Other than that the pictures even at 61" were good HD.
On: 2007-01-26
I just received the Canon HV10 today. The first problem was simple. The remote device battery pocket refused to open. I tried in every way to open it to insert the battery with no luck. I called Canon and the lady there said yes it was very difficult as she had similar complaints. I finally opened it scaring the plastic case with a sharp knife. Second was the manual. Poorly written and too small for these old eyes. I will have to download it as a
PDF file and print it in larger type. The third problem is that there were four very noticable white spots and four black spots on the picture when projected on my 61" screen. I called Canon again. The tech man said look at the LCD screen on the camera to see if they were there and indeed they were so back the camera goes. Other than that the pictures even at 61" were good HD.
 On: 2007-01-20
This Canon camera has poor quality interlacing artifacts all though out, on a 1080p monitor. I have used other HDV format cameras, and they were much better. The low light level recording was filled with fairly large digital grain. If you use a 1080i tube then it will probably look ok in high light, but still plauged in low light.
On: 2007-01-12
If you have plenty of light you will be amazed with the shots this camera will take. The macro shots are breathtaking. I havent had the best luck in low light and have noticed some vertical banding that others have noted. Im not to concerned with battery life because I always consider a second larger battery as a manditory purchase for any camera. I also wouldnt have wanted to pay for the inclusion of a firewire cable of which I already own.
I highly recomend this as a take anywhere camera with unmatched consumer video quality in shooting environments with plenty of light.
On: 2007-01-11
If you have plenty of light you will be amazed with the shots this camera will take. The macro shots are breathtaking. I havent had the best luck in low light and have noticed some vertical banding that others have noted. Im not to concerned with battery life because I always consider a second larger battery as a manditory purchase for any camera. I also wouldnt have wanted to pay for the inclusion of a firewire cable of which I already own.
I highly recomend this as a take anywhere camera with unmatched consumer video quality in shooting environments with plenty of light.
On: 2007-01-10
Everything I need in a HD camcorder. Select a good capturing software or work in Mac to get best results from the video. Controls are easily used with one hand.
On: 2007-01-09
Canon has done it again! I got rid of a GL2 in order to reduce the size of the camera and got a real gem! Now we have more movies because the camera is so much smaller and they are all in HD! A great little camera!
On: 2007-01-02
I was forced to upgrade our family VHS-C camcorder (at least this is the story I offered my wife) because of my sons science fair project, which involved capturing incoming video from a CCD video camera coupled to a microscope, and recording the capture to DV tape. Our old VHS-C camcorder didnt have any video-in capability, and obviously wasnt DV. This unit from Canon also offered the opportunity to film in high-def. That wasnt critical for our project, but I figured this is where all camcorders are going to end up, as we fill our homes with new HD TVs, and our landfills with old lo-def CRT-based TVs. Im all for future-proofing a purchase.
First problem: no firewire DV cable included with camera. If Canon can include a mini-USB cable, whats the big deal to throw in the firewire cable? Cmon, Canon---I expect more with a thousand-dollar camera.
Second problem: no video capture software included in the box. At the time of my purchase, there was a mail-in promo that entitled you to get a free copy of Pinnacle DV. Who knows how many weeks that may take to arrive. It also required that you cut the UPC off the box---not something Im happy about doing until Im positive I wont be returning the camera to the store and picking out a different one. If digital cameras can include a copy of Adobe Photoshop Elements in the box, why cant Canon make arrangements to put Pinnacle in the box too? Irritating hoop-jumping for the customer.
Third: agree with other owners that the provided battery (and lack of a standalone charger) is also skinflint on Canons part. Honestly, Im not surprised, since pretty much every camera manufacturer Ive ever seen plays the lets-make-some-extra-dough-on-worthwhile-accessories game these days.
Ultimately, its all about picture quality, and I havent been disappointed in this regard. Took some family footage to break-in the camera, and showed it on our hi-def TV---terrific. The image stabilization worked pretty well. Didnt stress the camera with low-light shooting, so I cant comment on that. Agree with others that the tiny size of this camera makes for lots of itsy-bitsy buttons crowded together, which not everyone will like. Im getting used to that. Now the main issue is learning all the features. It can take awhile to punch your way through the setup menus if you want to remove the date stamp, step down from 1080p to a lower def, or do anything else in the way of configuration. Ultimately the processes are all pretty logical, but the camera has so many options, expect to spend some time wading.
On: 2007-01-01
I was forced to upgrade our family VHS-C camcorder (at least this is the story I offered my wife) because of my sons science fair project, which involved capturing incoming video from a CCD video camera coupled to a microscope, and recording the capture to DV tape. Our old VHS-C camcorder didnt have any video-in capability, and obviously wasnt DV. This unit from Canon also offered the opportunity to film in high-def. That wasnt critical for our project, but I figured this is where all camcorders are going to end up, as we fill our homes with new HD TVs, and our landfills with old lo-def CRT-based TVs. Im all for future-proofing a purchase.
First problem: no firewire DV cable included with camera. If Canon can include a mini-USB cable, whats the big deal to throw in the firewire cable? Cmon, Canon---I expect more with a thousand-dollar camera.
Second problem: no video capture software included in the box. At the time of my purchase, there was a mail-in promo that entitled you to get a free copy of Pinnacle DV. Who knows how many weeks that may take to arrive. It also required that you cut the UPC off the box---not something Im happy about doing until Im positive I wont be returning the camera to the store and picking out a different one. If digital cameras can include a copy of Adobe Photoshop Elements in the box, why cant Canon make arrangements to put Pinnacle in the box too? Irritating hoop-jumping for the customer.
Third: agree with other owners that the provided battery (and lack of a standalone charger) is also skinflint on Canons part. Honestly, Im not surprised, since pretty much every camera manufacturer Ive ever seen plays the lets-make-some-extra-dough-on-worthwhile-accessories game these days.
Ultimately, its all about picture quality, and I havent been disappointed in this regard. Took some family footage to break-in the camera, and showed it on our hi-def TV---terrific. The image stabilization worked pretty well. Didnt stress the camera with low-light shooting, so I cant comment on that. Agree with others that the tiny size of this camera makes for lots of itsy-bitsy buttons crowded together, which not everyone will like. Im getting used to that. Now the main issue is learning all the features. It can take awhile to punch your way through the setup menus if you want to remove the date stamp, step down from 1080p to a lower def, or do anything else in the way of configuration. Ultimately the processes are all pretty logical, but the camera has so many options, expect to spend some time wading.
On: 2006-12-17
This is the 4th camcorder Im testing in 6 months and the first HD camcorder. Video quality is excellent; photo quality is good when in photo mode. Low light video is pretty good as well in a regular lighted room compared to other SD camcorders, and also Night mode is awesome if you plan to use it. Handling is great for someone with medium-small hands. Considering that the camcorder is under a pound with battery and tape inside, the size is quite small and controls are a bit cramped. Once you get used to it and you see the video quality youll love it.
The only negative thing that I found so far is that it doesnt have a HDMI connection, even though Component output is just as good (just a few more cables to put up with).
The battery that it comes with lasts for about 50min so I would definitely recommend an extra high capacity battery and also a wide angle lens.
The other HD camcorder I was looking at is the Sony HDR-SR1 with a 30GB hard drive. Considering that 60min of HD video takes about 20GB of your hard drive space when transferred to your computer, and HD DVD burners are still in the $700-$1,000 price range it would make no sense for me to burn DVDs and down convert the quality to SD. Also, if you think about backing up that 20GB of video and you cant afford a HD DVD burner, the process would take about 5 regular DVDs. With MiniDV tapes being as cheap as $1.50 per tape, its much easier to keep the tapes and also transfer it to a SD DVD as a backup option. Maybe in 5 years from now when the HD DVD and Blu-ray DVD war would be settled and a lot more affordable, I would purchase a HDD camcorder or god knows that other new technology would be available then.
On: 2006-11-29
1. Positives:
-excellent video quality, decent sound
-ease of use, light, compact, creative design.
-well featured; kind of find everything you need on it.
2. Negatives:
-Canon, you really need to think out of the box. Camera comes w/ only one, low capacity battery. What about putting in the box the extra BP315 or its Energizer equivalent?
-The only way you can possibly charge batteries is by stopping filming and charge through camera. Whats worse is that you couldnt possibly find a charger in a store. I had to order one from the Internet. No big problem and certainly a better price. But what if you need it immediatelly, say a wedding, funeral or other events that simply cant afford to wait for shipping? Between battery and charger, camera cannot be used the same day you purchase it for more than about 30 min.
-Even a low volume miniSD card is called professional courtesy for the buyer, Canon... lack of any kind of equates to being rude... What about providing 1 (just ONE) DV tape?...
-Wide angle adapter is a good accessory to have. Fortunatelly, camera is thoughtfully designed, so that many such accessories - available on the general market - will work just fine with it.
-Lack of an HD editing software; not a big deal, as a lot of that is available on the market for even decent prices, but its a newbie to put a camera on the market w/ no video software. Canon, pls. take out the picture management software. Useless. To potential buyers, I recommend either Adobe Photoshop / Adobe Premiere Elements bundle (same price as Pinnacles Studio, while making the job simpler and using less resources on the computer) or Sonic (not sure this one does HD). For pictures, I find Googles Picasa to be the best organization, basic editing and printing software out there. And... its FREE.
-Even though not a major inconvenience, a 4-way microphone for 5.1 sound recording kinda should come with an HD camera.
Bottom line:
Canon, congratulations on your technical brass for a professional product. Though, Canon, you need to take a hard look to your marketing dept. that seems to just piggyback on the technical staff while failing to provide meaningful supplies in the box, for the right price. Maybe you can get your marketers to do some actual work for their buck.
On: 2006-11-20
My place looks like a video store ... ;-)
I own several Sony HDV camcorders including the HC1 and the FX1 which are both excellent products. For photography I have however switched some time ago to Canon because of the color quality and use a EOS1 and Rebel XTI. When the HV10 came out I decided to give Canon a swirl on HD video. I was not disappointed. Canon has the edge (potentially a subtle one) on color reality on Sony. The resolution of the HV10 is actually higher.
I prefer the HV10 in terms of picture quality to the Sony HC1. Both cant match the FX1 in low light conditions because of the 3 CCDs. The HV10 is substantially smaller and easier to use. If the use of a wide-angle converter also produces the annoying darkened corners as on the HC1 I will still have to see. I recommend the use of the larger battery pack as the cute small one does not last one hour. Sony is much better there and always was.
PC editing hints for HD:
Dont forget that HD needs a dual-core processor for editing and enormous disk space. Get a few external USB 2.0 disks rather than storing to DVDs. Rather than big disks with extra power supplies I only use several USB bus powered disks. Reading from the one and editing to another disk gives you better performance.
On: 2006-11-19
I really like this camcorder a lot,but the battery really stinks. The size of the Canon HV10 is small enough to put inside your coat pocket or your handbag, backpack etc. The HV10 could be too small to handle for people who got big hands. The picture is excellent though I havent shot in low light condition yet. Overall I will give the HV10 4 stars because of the battery, if it wasnt for the battery then it would have gotten 5 stars.
On: 2006-11-19
My place looks like a video store ... ;-)
I own several Sony HDV camcorders including the HC1 and the FX1 which are both excellent products. For photography I have however switched some time ago to Canon because of the color quality and use a EOS1 and Rebel XTI. When the HV10 came out I decided to give Canon a swirl on HD video. I was not disappointed. Canon has the edge (potentially a subtle one) on color reality on Sony. The resolution of the HV10 is actually higher.
I prefer the HV10 in terms of picture quality to the Sony HC1. Both cant match the FX1 in low light conditions because of the 3 CCDs. The HV10 is substantially smaller and easier to use. If the use of a wide-angle converter also produces the annoying darkened corners as on the HC1 I will still have to see. I recommend the use of the larger battery pack as the cute small one does not last one hour. Sony is much better there and always was.
PC editing hints for HD:
Dont forget that HD needs a dual-core processor for editing and enormous disk space. Get a few external USB 2.0 disks rather than storing to DVDs. Rather than big disks with extra power supplies I only use several USB bus powered disks. Reading from the one and editing to another disk gives you better performance.
On: 2006-10-07
Positives:
Works fast -- power off-on time, record start, autofocus are all very fast. Great white balance in daylight/well-lit situations -- better than the Sony FX1 and HC3. Excellent resolution and contrast. Unbelievably small size makes traveling easy -- you will end up taking the video camera everywhere with you instead of leaving it behind. Allows Contrast, Sharpness, Brightness, and Color Saturation picture adjustments to suit your style of video that is not available on the Sony HC3 (closest competing model that I compared with). Great automatic mode that will decrease the shutter speed to 1/30th of a second in order to improve low light video (great feature because it saves the user from having to go into semi-manual mode in order to get decent low-light footage). The Super Optical Stabilization works better than in most cameras, considering the small size/vertical orientation of the camcorder. Built-in light definitely improves picture quality when filming casual footage of friends/family -- without it, you would not see anything.
Negatives:
Slightly difficult to hold for those with large hands. Buttons are too small. Very Low light video is not just grainy and noisy, but has vertical bands in it also. Colors may appear more muted than on a 3CCD camcorder if the subject is not well-lit. White balance in low-light is poor, video quality improves significantly if manual white balance is used in those situations.
I also own a Sony HDR-FX1 HDV Video Camera and used that as a reasonable basis of comparison.
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