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Wayne, NJ, December 5, 1995 -- JVC PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS COMPANY has broken the professional price barrier with the GY-X3 (X3), a rugged, high-performance 3-CCD S-VHS camcorder. Boasting the features and construction of professional camcorders costing thousands more, JVC has priced the X3 to fill a niche just above single CCD camcorders but significantly below existing professional 3-CCD models. This move puts professional 3-CCD technology firmly within the grasp of event videographers, educators, corporate and government users for the first time.

The X3's three 1/3" CCDs produce outstanding image quality and a sensitivity of F8 at 2,000 lux. Even in light as low as 4 lux, this camera produces bright pictures with good resolution and strong, vivid colors.

"The X3 is a significant addition to our camcorder line," said Jerry Cohen, JVC product marketing manager. "It does not replace the X-2. It complements it. By introducing the X3, JVC PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS is providing more product options to address the individual needs of users."

Lighter than most 3-CCD cameras and designed to balance perfectly on the shoulder, steady shots come naturally with the GY- X3U. Additionally, users will never fumble for switches because all controls, including audio level adjustments, are easily accessible. The X3 is equipped with many advanced features found in more expensive cameras, such as Full Auto Shooting (FAS), servo zoom lens and full-size S-VHS recorder with Time Code. Many of these features can be adjusted manually as well, giving videographers the best of both worlds. The FAS adjusts instantly to changes in shooting conditions from bright outdoor lighting to indoor lighting. As conditions change, the FAS automatically adjusts gain, iris, audio level and color balance. Conveniently, an extended Electronic Iris is built-in to maintain a constant video level in very bright lighting conditions, without inserting an ND filter. The 14:1 servo zoom lens with manual override maximizes creativity by allowing freedom of choice, unlike the strictly motorized or manual zoom lenses. The amount of pressure applied to the rocker determines the speed of the zoom for a more natural transition.

In addition to outstanding video quality, the X3 produces superior sound quality via a mounted microphone and separate inputs for two Hi-Fi audio tracks.

For more stable recording, the X3 uses a full-size head drum, similar to the those in studio decks. With the addition of a built-in CTL Time Code generator, JVC has further integrated the X3 with its Edit-Desk S-VHS editing system. CTL Time Code, designed for S-VHS, assures fast and accurate editing and offers the benefits of VITC Time Code without the drawbacks. A new "scene finder" function records an identification code each time the trigger is pressed, allowing the editor to easily locate the next or previous scene. The X3 also includes a built-in time/date generator, a large, high resolution 1.5-inch viewfinder, variable scan for shooting CRTs and quick release tripod adapter plate. The GY-X3U can record up to two hours on a standard ST-120 S- VHS cassette, the most widely accepted industrial videotape format. S-VHS editing systems are available from all major manufacturers. Furthermore, JVC invented the S-VHS format to provide exceptional video and audio quality even after editing and dubbing. Because of this high quality, S-VHS has proven to be the practical choice for wedding and event videography, as well as corporate and educational applications.

"S-VHS continues to be the preferred choice for serious professionals who want excellent quality at an affordable price," said David Walton, JVC communications marketing manager. "The X3 is a breakthrough in that it opens up the professional market to a whole new spectrum of videographers. This product gives single CCD event shooters the ideal opportunity to switch to a professional camera." JVC's GY-X3U has a manufacturer's suggested list price of $5,500 including lens, viewfinder and tripod plate.

JVC PROFESSIONAL PRODUCTS COMPANY distributes a complete line of broadcast and professional equipment including cameras, recorders, and audio and editing products. For more information about the X3, contact David Walton, at 1-800-JVC-5825.