SlashScope

If you are operating on a tight budget you do not have to make-do with a "throw away" camcorder. While an expensive device in the hands of a newbie would not necessarily translate into professional reproduction, the features in the affordably priced JVC GR-D650 could certainly be put to good use by an informed user. 'Relatively compact and weighing a little more than a pound, the JVC GR-D650 has a tall, thin design that fits comfortably in the hand and is compact enough to slip into a jacket pocket. The case is typical silver-and-gray plastic fare, with a solid design that feels like it should hold up well to everyday handling. Like most modern camcorders, the GR-D650 relegates the majority of its settings to menus, but you will find buttons for common functions, as well as a four-way directional pad that does double duty for menu navigation and quick access to settings such as backlight compensation. The GR-D650's menus are well organized and easy to navigate.'