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MAC USERS TEND to be dreamers, and as such, we must grow accustomed to seeing dreams go unfulfilled. However, at least on this page, a dream has been realized. This is a commonly shared dream for a high-quality, 3-chip camcorder that also takes high-resolution still images in a compact package. JVC's GR-X5US brings this vision to fruition. Although it doesn't produce the same results as two very good separate devices would, beginner-to-intermediate level users can capture attractive video and very legitimate 5-megapixel still shots with its three 1.33-megapixel image sensors.
The look of the GR-X5US matches its hybrid utility. Weighing just over a pound, the compact, cubic GR-X5US looks most like a camcorder, but takes some design cues from its still camera side, as well. For example, the satisfyingly bright 2.5" LCD flips up from the rear of the camera, and you can flip it around so that it faces out sitting flush with the back panel. Basic, one-handed operation is fairly simple, with the thumb starting/pausing video recording, the middle finger operating the zoom lever and the index finger taking care of the still photo button. A physical switch changes from DV tape to SD/MMC memory card capture, however, you can take low-resolution photos during video recording or save them to tape.
In Auto mode, the GR-X5US delivered effortless video and stills with likable results. Although you don't get as many manual controls as you would with more prosumer camcorders or digicams, the GR-X5US Manual mode lets you choose from three ISO settings, six auto exposure settings, four white balance settings and more. You can also manually adjust exposure and focus. While some manual options are controlled from the LCD menu, others are conveniently accessed through hardware buttons. Exposure, Program AE and Focus buttons let you adjust these settings using a wheel with your left hand. We think this easy-to-adjust method will help those unfamiliar with manual controls get up to speed quicker. In either mode, the built-in digital image stabilization was very effective for reducing the detriments of handheld shakiness and taking finely focused and detailed images, even with the 10x optical zoom extended to its limit.
There are many other features included in the palm-sized GR-X5US, including an accessory shoe, built-in stereo mic, stereo mic input, headphone jack, PictBridge compatibility, 16x9 widescreen recording mode, five-second recording mode and of course, OS X compatibility. We were able to connect the GR-X5US to a Mac from both its FireWire connection (cable not included) and its USB connection (cable included) at once. However, iMovie and iPhoto would not recognize it simultaneously. If the camera's switch was on Memory, iPhoto could import images from the included 32MB SD card or other card. With the switch on Video, iMovie or another video editor would recognize the GR-X5US for DV importing.
In general, both the video and still shots taken on the GR-X5US looked rich and alive, with adequate detail and accurate colors. There is a built-in flash, but results were best in well-lit environments for both stills and videos. The low-light Night Alive setting for video creates brighter shots by slowing down the shutter speed, but this also leads to a strobe-like motion effect. While you could achieve better results from other 3-chip consumer camcorders and 5-megapixel cameras, the GR-X5US is just about perfect for anyone with the necessary cash and the desire to combine high-quality video and still images in one very portable device.
–MARKKUS ROVITO
GR-X5US: 
JVC | www.jvc.com | 800-882-2345 | $1,500
Pros: Satisfying video and still image quality, compact size, easy operation, good image stabilization.
Cons: No optical viewfinder, low battery life with included battery, better results available for the same price or less from separate camcorders and still cams.
Requires: Mac with FireWire port, 6-pin to 4-pin FireWire 400 cable
macHOME recommends: SD memory card of 256MB or more
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