Main Features

Thank you for purchasing the DV Camcorder GY-DV550. These instructions are for GY-DV550U.

This unit is a MiniDV video system format camcorder. Videocassettes which are not marked with the MiniDV symbol cannot be used with this unit.

The following phenomena may occur when tapes recorded on other units (including another GY-DV550) are recorded or played back on this camcorder.

●The transient section between scenes recorded on other units and those recorded on this unit may appear disturbed.

●Digital noise may appear during playback due to tracking errors.

●This unit records and plays back in the SP mode. Recording or playback in the LP mode is not possible.

●Due to manufacturing dispersion of tapes, we recommend not to record pictures within the first 2 to 3 minutes from the beginning of the tape.

●Before recording important scenes, be sure to perform a test recording and confirm that both video and audio are recorded correctly.

●Recorded video and audio contents are for private use. Other use may infringe on the rights of copyright holders.

●JVC cannot assume liabilities that may derive from the impossibility of normal recording or playback of video or audio due to malfunction of the camcorder or the videocassette.

●Compact, lightweight design

Compact and light weight body was realized by use of magnesium die cast.

●DV high-quality digital format

The 4:1:1, 8-bit, 25 Mbps component digital processing of the format ensures recording and playback with high picture quality.

●High sound quality thanks to PCM audio

Two types of sampling, 16-bit, 48 kHz sampling and 12-bit, 32 kHz sampling, ensure high-quality digital audio.

●26-pin camera terminal

The terminal can be used to connect an external VCR and camera remote control unit. The recording VCR can be selected in the VTR SELECT switch.

(Main unit/parallel/external VCR)

●External video input capability

External composite video can be recorded with this unit.

●Character mixing capability for monitor output

Characters can be mixed for output to the MONITOR OUT connector using menu setting.

●Audio reference recording level selected

The audio reference recording level can be set to -20dB or - 12dB in the menu.

●Normal/LETTER (16:9) screen switching capability

You can switch between 4:3 ratio screen and 16:9 ratio screen in the menu.

●Concentrated LCD display (back-lit)

The concentrated LCD panel shows the time code and CTL counter, tape remaining time, remaining battery power, audio levels, VCR section setup menus, hour meter data, and a variety of warning indications. The display is back-lit to facilitate viewing in dark locations.

●Time code reader/generator

The built-in time code reader/generator can be used to record SMPTE time code and user's bits.

●Time code input/output connectors for slave lock capability This unit can be slave-locked to an external time code generator which is connected to the time code input.

The data in the built-in time code generator is output from the time code output terminal.

●Built-in monitor loudspeaker for audio checking

The input audio can be monitored in recording or EE mode. The playback sound can be monitored in the playback mode. The loudspeaker also outputs an alarm tone in case an abnormal condition occurs in the unit.

●Rec check function for convenient recording review

●Camera section designed with 3-CCD system for high-quality picture

Three 1/2" CCDs with 380,000 effective pixels employed. Digital signal processing for reproduction of high-quality picture.

●Super sensitivity F/11, 2000 lux

Enables shooting at normal indoor illumination eliminating the need for extra illumination.

●LOLUX for 0.75 lux (F1.4) illumination

Employment of LOLUX mode ensures +33 dB gain. This is ideal for difficult shooting conditions with almost no illumination.

●Multi-Zone Auto Iris Detection Circuit

Multi-zone auto iris detection circuit ensures optimum iris position even in backlit conditions or when a bright subject moves in a frame. Switch provided for selecting over or under level.

●Safety Zone indication in viewfinder

Two types of safety zone indicator functions provided. Center mark can be turned ON/OFF.

●Zebra pattern video level indication in viewfinder

●Full Auto Shooting (FAS) function

Eliminating the need for troublesome switch or filter operations, the FAS function automatically provides a wide range of compatibility with shooting conditions which varies as you move between indoors and outdoors or between bright and dark locations.

●Color temperature conversion filters for "3200K", "5600K + 1/8ND", "5600 K + 1/64ND" provided.

●Variable scan shutter

Eliminates flicker when shooting other screen pictures than NTSC, such as computer monitor screens.

Copes with the range from 60.1 Hz to 2084.6 Hz.

●DV (i. LINK) connector

DV connector (4-pin) provided. Enables transfer of digital data to other equipment provided with DV connector, such as a non-linear editing controller.

●S.S.F. (Super Scene Finder) function

Enables memorization of the start point and ending point of each scene or memorization of CUE points.

●Camera (Video) output, VCR playback output (composite/ YC) possible

●GENLOCK input connector

●Equipped with remote control system compatible GENLOCK function with SC (Sub Carrier) lock.

●Built-in color bar (SMPTE type)

●Superior operability with shutter speed and menus selected by dial.