Taken on its own strengths, the JVC GZ-MG50E is a formidable package. Image quality is good, there is sufficient storage space for the lack of removable media not to be a problem at all, and the features are more than adequate if you don't have semi-professional intentions. It's the best hard disk camcorder we've seen so far. The main chink in the MG505E's armour is that it shoots in standard definition, and high definition is rapidly gaining pace. Canon has recently launched a consumer model, and Sony's HDR-HC3E is only slightly more expensive than this JVC contender. Sony also has a hard disk-based HD camcorder due in a few months. So although the JVC is an undeniably desirable cam, there are alternative objects of techno-lust just around the corner.Read full review
Overall
9/10
By James Morris
Reviewed 15 September 2006
Updated 05 February 2011