If you’ve been thinking about the 4K multi-format JVC GY-LS300 M4/3 mount S35 camcorder then there has never been a better time to pick one up. B+H have just lowered the price by $500 to just $3495 US for a limited period.
The LS300 has largely been overshadowed by the Sony FS5 in recent times, but now that the price gap between the two is over $2000 US it may warrant closer investigation. The LS300 is also only $500 more than the a7S II at this moment. It can’t match the Sony’s amazing low light capabilities but it does has built-in neutral density filters and XLR audio for the price.
When our own Matt Allard previously reviewed the camera he liked many things about it – especially the multi-format sensor and the lightweight body. The S35 sensor can be windowed to shoot with M4/3 format and Super16 lenses, or you can add a Metabones Speedbooster to get a full-frame look. You can also electronically zoom into the image using a function JVC call Prime Zoom which has very little loss in resolution – very much like Sony’s clear image zoom system. Matt did however note that the built-in EVF was quite low resolution and not up the the standard of many of its competitors. Add an external EVF and a shoulder rig an it can become a very versatile package indeed though.
One thing you will need to factor in is the likely additional cost of a lens adapter if you want to use Canon EF or other non M4/3 lenses. The 150 Mbps internal 4K codec has a reasonably high bitrate, it can be improved with the addition of a good external recorder like the Atomos Shogun.
You can see full details of the deal along with discounts on several other JVC 4K cameras here.
