JVC GR SXM 730U revisited [Updated Review and Test Video]

‪@WaybackRewind‬ #video #tv #vhs A subscriber took issue with three things I said about the GR-SXM-730. Told me that "If you can't say something nice, then don't say something at all"

Well here are three things about this camera that are not so nice:

1) 20 minute recording time is a big compromise
2) The compact super VHS format is even more compromised because it won't play in most VCRs
3) This camera was already obsolete when it was sold new and only appealed to entry level cost conscious consumers.

In this video I talk about these three points and concede to a certain degree with the comments made by a subscriber. It's my personal camera and I don't hate it, but to be honest there were better cameras available in 1999.

I also take a look at my JVC GR-C1u as the first VHS Camcorder ever.

Here at Wayback Rewind we listen to the subscribers and if you make a valid point I will address it.

Included at the end of the review is a test video of my JVC GR-SXM-730u at the SK8 roller rink with the PP&C Team. Yours Truly did not skate but was dutifully working the 90s Video Camera. I transferred the footage to DVD and then edited it using modern tools. I stuck to cuts only to give it the full 90s feel, although I couldn't resist throwing in a dissolve or two.

Overall the low light performance and color was pretty good. I actually forgot to bring extra tapes so I was freaking out the whole time about running out of tape. But the 20 minute tape was actually welcomed when I got to editing. Since I edited it digitally there was no appreciable generational loss as there would have been back in the day.

Biggest disappointment was the audio. Gain was poor, and the linear mono track was a generation or two behind the competition even in 1999.

If you want an old school look and feel without filters this is worth a look.

Thanks for Watching.