Well I have been doing a lot of research on both of the new JVC 600 cameras, and I want a REAL Camcorder!
I have been shooting with a few DSLR's and the newer Sony Nex-VG20 18-200mm. I have already had to have the VG20 sent in for sensor cleaning, and changing lens's is becoming a pain for me. I'm one of those Swiss army guys when it comes to what I like to shoot. Little event stuff, business doc, maybe some product videos coming up here. I really love the lens on the 600-650. The Wifi features are very cool, being able to control the camera with a smart phone, or tablet I think can work pretty nice. I'm really thinking about getting the 650. I know that it is probably overkill for what I do, but at least I think I'll have my needs and then some covered.

The review was very favorable about these cameras. For anyone that might be on the fence, Here is the link to the full PDF Manual for the JVC GY HM650. Covers a lot of stuff.

Let me know what any of you think about my decision. This is out of my budget, but I won't be buying any other cameras for a few years, Other than a GH3 for aerial video work.

JVC Professional Technical Manuals page (http://pro.jvc.com/prof/attributes/inst_man.jsp?model_id=MDL102154&feature_id=11)

Leon

Thanks for posting this link, Leon -- I have done the same for the HM600 and the download links are now "stuck" at the top of this forum's index page at http://www.dvinfo.net/forum/jvc-gy-hm-series-camera-systems/513445-download-gy-hm600-hm650-operators-manuals.html#post1772867 -- much appreciated,

I'm in the same situation as you Leon. I wanted a "do everything" camera where I didn't have to bother with lenses. After researching for months I finally settled on the HM600. I purchased it a few days ago, and now i'm waiting impatiently for it to arrive.

Thanks for the link to the manual.. I'll have a read.

Please Post your findings on this camera ASAP!! Just kidding totally at your convenience.

I'm really interested about the low light capabilities how it looks in a tight zoom. and how the stabilization works. HDwarrior.com.uk is getting ready to post a review of the 650. I'm jealous, Good Luck Jody and I hope it works out for you, for a while!

Please Post your findings on this camera ASAP!! Just kidding totally at your convenience.

I'm really interested about the low light capabilities how it looks in a tight zoom. and how the stabilization works. HDwarrior.com.uk is getting ready to post a review of the 650. I'm jealous, Good Luck Jody and I hope it works out for you, for a while!

Yep, I'm hoping to have it within the next few days so will post my findings ASAP :)

Yep, I'm hoping to have it within the next few days so will post my findings ASAP :)
Hi again Jody,
Looks like the world is waiting for you! I think early adopters should be given the camera free, as you are the most objective reviewer and free marketing opportunity for the manufacturer. (and it would ensure that manufacturers get it right first time!).-if only.

Looking forward to your feedback.
Cheers!
Rod

I ordered mine and recieved it to my shipping address a few weeks ago. However my address is in Hawai'i and I am currently in Germany until March. Luckily my camera is coming with someone and I get to hold it Tuesday.

I plan to do some tests and post a review. One thing I want to play with is the manual focus and zoom, does anyone know if its an actual manual zoom/focus or if its just like the canon's and runs just a servo?

The 650 is great, but really not enough of an upgrade for me, a swiss army shooter, and a field documentaries.

I'm pretty sure it's all servo operated, but you'll know soon and will be able to let us know. :)

The reason for making these long zooms all servo is that it extremely difficult to make a lens with this sort of zoom range parfocal, so as you zoom, the electronic needs to adjust the focus.