JVC GY-LS300 4K Super 35 Camcorder
A handheld 4K Super 35 professional camcorder offering filmmakers the flexibility to use high-end cinema lenses or affordable glass to capture 2K/4K footage.
Cinematic Excellence
The JVC GY-LS300 is a compact, convenient, and ultra high-definition camcorder featuring a 4K Super 35 CMOS sensor. It accommodates a wide range of cinema and photographic lenses and adapters for striking cinematic effects. Record hours of footage on SDHC/SDXC media in various formats, including 4K Ultra HD, full HD with 4:2:2 sampling, SD, and web-friendly proxy formats. Its dual codec design allows for simultaneous recording of two program copies. The camera also enables live HD streaming over the internet to content delivery networks like USTREAM while recording full HD. Compared to conventional DSLR cameras, the GY-LS300 offers superior reliability, longer recording times, and enhanced ergonomics, providing unmatched flexibility in a compact, easy-to-handle form factor.
Super 35 Optical Format
Description of the AltaSens 4K CMOS Super 35 image sensor.
The GY-LS300 features the JVCKENWOOD AltaSens 4K CMOS Super 35 image sensor, a premium solution for uncompromised cinema production, ultra-clear broadcast video, and full-resolution 4K video. Coupled with the camera's Micro Four Thirds mount, the Super 35 sensor provides professionals with unprecedented flexibility to achieve creative photographic effects, such as the shallow depth of field 'bokeh' effect.
Professional Versatility
Micro Four Thirds Lens Mount
The Super 35 sensor and Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lens mount create an ideal combination for high-end cinematic imagery and affordable lenses. Numerous high-quality Micro Four Thirds lenses are readily available without needing an adapter. The short flange focal distance (under 20mm) allows for adaptation of most cinema lenses, with various mount adapters available, including PL, Canon EF, Nikon, and C-Mount. The mount's electrical connections support autofocus, iris, and power zoom lenses, even with adapters. A key advantage is that the GY-LS300 uses a Super 35 imager, approximately 35% larger than a standard MFT imager. JVC's mount ensures full coverage of the imager, allowing Super 35 lenses to be used without vignetting. This versatility can significantly reduce costs by avoiding the purchase of new lenses.
Description of optional adapters from Metabones enabling the use of PL and EF lenses.
Unparalleled Flexibility
While some may assume a mismatch between a Super 35 sensor and an MFT mount due to the MFT sensor being smaller, the GY-LS300 is designed for broad compatibility. It supports a wide array of lens mounts, allowing users to select the perfect lens with the ideal aperture and field of view for any scene. JVC's unique Variable Scan Mapping (VSM) technology maintains the native angle of view for all compatible lenses.
Variable Scan Mapping
Imagine a 4K video camera that intelligently maps pixels to the sensor chip to perfectly frame any lens, regardless of format or size. JVC's Variable Scan Mapping (VSM) technology makes this a reality. The GY-LS300, through VSM, allows users to choose their desired lens and maintains the native angle of view for a wide range of lenses, including popular Super 35, MFT, and Super 16 lenses. VSM works by intelligently remapping sensor pixels to match the lens's native field of view, ensuring the pixels fill the entire picture frame and eliminating vignetting. This enables professional cinematographers to use high-end, large-format cinema 35 lenses on a handheld camera while achieving correct framing.
Diagram illustrating how VSM maximizes sensor pixels for common lens sizes and maintains original field of view, showing Super 35, MFT, and Super 16 scans with their respective image circles and indicating vignetting elimination.
Ultra HD 4K Recording at 150Mbps and Live Output
The GY-LS300 is engineered to deliver stunning, lifelike 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) video in a compact form factor, making it suitable for diverse applications. With four times the resolution of full HD, the camera provides superior video quality, achieving greater detail, truer colors, and exceptional footage. Recording 4K is simplified with support for SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I Speed class 3) memory cards, allowing hours of 4K material to be captured. Recordings are made in the Quicktime (.MOV) file format, compatible with many popular editing systems. A 4K Ultra HD monitor can be connected via a single HDMI cable to view the camera's live 4K signal, and recorded files can be played back directly from the camera.
Recording Capabilities
Full HD 4:2:2 Recording at 50Mbps
The ability to record H.264 4:2:2 at 24-60p at 50 Mbps makes the GY-LS300 an ideal choice for broadcasting and cinematic production houses. The 4:2:2 color accuracy delivers exceptional color resolution, even in high-contrast scenes or when using green screens.
Virtually Lossless H.264 50Mbps Recording
The GY-LS300 features the H.264 Extreme-High Quality (XHQ) 50Mbps (MOV) recording mode, similar to that used in HD SLRs. MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 offers approximately twice the compression efficiency of conventional codecs and superior motion prediction, resulting in smooth, detailed pictures with minimal block noise, even during rapid action. The 50Mbps bit rate supports full HD 1920 x 1080 encoding at 24-50/60p or 50i/60i, producing highly detailed HD images.
Web-friendly (Proxy) File Formats
Lower resolution H.264 files (e.g., 480 x 270p, 960 x 540p) can be recorded simultaneously with full HD files. These significantly smaller files are ideal for immediate web posting. A 960 x 540 file is approximately 1/10th the size of a full HD file recorded at 35 Mbps, allowing for much faster FTP transfer and posting. These smaller files can be easily imported into devices like an iPad for editing with applications like iMovie or Pinnacle Studio, streamlining the workflow. The GY-LS300 also supports simultaneous creation of SD and HD files.
Dual SDHC/SDXC Card Slots
The GY-LS300 is designed for extensive recording on affordable, non-proprietary SDHC/SDXC media in 4K Ultra HD, full HD with 4:2:2 sampling, SD, and web-friendly proxy formats. Its dual codec design allows for two copies of the program to be made simultaneously. In relay recording mode, users can shoot continuously and seamlessly across multiple cards. When one card is full, the camcorder automatically switches to the next. Cards are hot-swappable, enabling continuous shooting until media is exhausted. A single 128GB card can record up to 100 minutes of 4K or 540 minutes of AVCHD video.
Streaming and Cloud Services
While recording high-quality video/audio to SDHC/SDXC cards, the GY-LS300 is also capable of streaming LIVE video/audio via network. This wireless capability, combined with the camera's mobility, facilitates faster delivery of LIVE video for mission-critical ENG applications. Users can stream backhaul LIVE to the newsroom using Wi-Fi or a 3G/4G network, choosing the most stable and cost-effective option.
Advanced IP Network Communication and Streaming
The GY-LS300 features JVC's latest IP communications engine, enabling remote control and monitoring of vital camera functions from a tablet, smartphone, or computer globally. Live streaming is supported in HD or lower resolutions, depending on bandwidth. JVC's Advanced Streaming Technology (AST) incorporates Zixi-powered Forward Error Correction with ARQ, ensuring high-quality streams even in challenging conditions. By connecting an optional Wi-Fi or LTE modem, users can share content with an audience worldwide via content delivery networks like USTREAM and YouTube, with a simple one-button operation to start streaming HD.
Advanced Streaming Capabilities (F.A.S.T.)
- Routing: With F.A.S.T. (Fluent Adaptive Streaming Technology), the GY-LS300 can stream to the optional ProHD Broadcaster (BR-800) [US only]. This broadcaster routes streams from multiple cameras to various destinations, including decoders, content delivery networks (e.g., USTREAM), or other servers. The camera can also be remotely monitored.
- Robust Error Correction: The optional broadcaster actively monitors incoming stream quality and instructs cameras to repeat packets (ARQ) or apply forward error correction (FEC). This technology can correct up to 30% packet loss, ensuring a robust and reliable HD stream. Stream status is displayed to the camera operator in the viewfinder.
- Recording: Incoming streams can be configured to record automatically or at a preset time. Streams can be downloaded or set for automatic playback later. Zixi error control ensures outstanding image quality. Recorded video streams can also be tagged for video-on-demand (VOD) playback, with VOD menus providing URLs in various streaming formats for external playback.
- Remote Control: A single click on the server console provides remote control for the connected GY-LS300. This includes control over lens functions (zoom, focus, iris) and camera settings (gain, shutter, WB, paint, LoLux, etc.). Zoom presets can be registered and triggered remotely. Recording and live streaming can also be initiated remotely, which is invaluable for minor adjustments when a single reporter is operating the camera.
JVC GY-LS300: An Exquisite, Full-featured 4K Super 35 Video Camera
The JVC GY-LS300 is a compact, convenient, and ultra high-definition camera designed to capture hours of pristine recordings on affordable, non-proprietary SDHC/SDXC media. It supports a variety of image formats, including 4K Ultra HD, Full HD with 4:2:2 sampling, and SD and web-friendly proxy formats. Its dual codec design allows for two copies of the program to be made simultaneously and enables live HD streaming over the internet to content delivery networks like USTREAM while recording full HD. No other removable lens video camera offers this level of flexibility in such a compact, easy-to-handle form factor.
- Newly developed 4K Super 35 CMOS image sensor
- Micro Four Thirds system lens mount
- Variable scan mapping
- Adapters available for PL and EF mount lenses
- 4K Ultra HD recording (150 Mbps) to SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I Speed class3) cards
- 4:2:2 full HD recording at 50Mbps
- 3-position ND filter (1/4, 1/16, and 1/64)
- HD-SDI (3G) and HDMI outputs (4K output via HDMI only)
- 2-channel XLR audio inputs with phantom power
- Built-in stereo microphone
- Dual SDHC/SDXC slots enabling dual, backup, and continuous recording
- Advanced JVC streaming engine compatible with USTREAM, Zixi, and Wowza Streaming Engine
- IP network remote control, remote viewing, metadata editing, FTP clips
- 0.24-inch color viewfinder (1.56M pixel) with smart focus assist function
- Wired remote control supported
- 10 user button assignable functions
- Includes handle unit and SSL-JVC50 7.4V battery, AC Adapter
Full Specifications
| GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| Power | DC 12V (AC adaptor), DC 7.4V (Battery) |
| Power Consumption | Approx. 9.8W (4K), 9.1W (HD) (with VF in REC mode, default setting) |
| Weight | 1.7 kg (including battery) / (3.75 lbs) |
| Dimensions | 135(W) x 191(H) x 359(D)mm |
| Operation temperature | 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) |
| Storage temperature | 14°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) |
| Operating humidity | 30% to 80% |
| Storage humidity | under 85% |
| CAMERA | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | Super 35 13.5M pixels progressive scan CMOS |
| Synchronizing | Internal synchronization |
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds system mount |
| Shutter speed | 1/6 ~ 1/10000 |
| Gain | 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24 dB, Lolux (30, 36 dB), AGC |
| ND filter | none, 1/4, 1/16, 1/64 |
| LCD display | 3.5-inch 920 k pixels, 16:9 |
| Viewfinder | 0.24-inch 1.56 M pixel, 16:9 |
| VIDEO/AUDIO RECORDING | |
|---|---|
| Recording media | 2x SDHC/SDXC memory card (4K:UHS-1 U3, HD:50Mbps Class10, HD:35Mbps Class6, AVCHD/SD Class4) |
| Video codec | MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 (4K/HD/SD/Proxy), AVCHD(HD/SD) | File format: MOV(H.264), MTS(AVCHD) |
| 4K(H.264) | NTSC setting: 3840 x 2160/29.97p, 23.98p(150Mbps) PAL setting: 3840 x 2160/25p(150Mbps) |
| HD(H.264) | NTSC setting: YUV422 mode: 1920 x 1080/59.94p, 59.94i, 29.97p, 23.98p(50Mbps) XHQ mode: 1920 x 1080/59.94p, 59.94i, 29.97p, 23.98p(50Mbps), 1920 x 1080/59.94i, 29.97p, 23.98p(35Mbps), 1280 x 720/59.94p(35Mbps) PAL setting: YUV422 mode: 1920 x 1080/50p, 50i, 25p(50Mbps) XHQ mode: 1920 x 1080/50p, 50i, 25p(50Mbps), 1920 x 1080/50i, 25p(35Mbps), 1280 x 720/50p(35Mbps) |
| AVCHD | NTSC setting: Progressive mode(Max 28Mbps): 1920 x 1080/59.94p HQ mode(24Mbps): 1920 x 1080/59.94i, SP mode(17Mbps): 1920 x 1080/59.94i LP mode(9Mbps): 1440 x 1080/59.94i(Web mode), EP mode(5Mbps): 1440 x 1080/59.94i(Web mode) PAL setting: Progressive mode(Max 28Mbps): 1920 x 1080/50p HQ mode(24Mbps): 1920 x 1080/50i, SP mode(17Mbps): 1920 x 1080/50i LP mode(9Mbps): 1440 x 1080/50i(Web mode), EP mode(5Mbps): 1440 x 1080/50i(Web mode) |
| SD(MOV/AVCHD) | NTSC setting: 720 x 480/59.94i(8Mbps) PAL setting: 720 x 576/50i (8Mbps) |
| Proxy(H.264) | NTSC setting: HQ mode(3Mbps): 960 x 540/29.97p, 23.98p, LP mode(1.2Mbps): 480 x 270/29.97p, 23.98p PAL setting: HQ mode(3Mbps): 960 x 540/25p, LP mode(1.2Mbps): 480 x 270/25p |
| Audio recording | LPCM 2ch, 48kHz/16-bit(4k/HD/SD MOV)), AC3 2ch(AVCHD), µlaw 2ch(Proxy) |
| LIVE VIDEO STREAMING | |
|---|---|
| Protocol | RTMP, MPEG2-TS/UDP, MPEG2-TS/TCP, RTSP/RTP, ZIXI |
| Bit rate | 0.2 - 12 Mbps |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080, 1280 x 720, 720 x 480, 480 x 270 |
| INTERFACE | |
|---|---|
| Video output | AV output (3.5mm mini jack x1) | SDI output (BNC x1) | HDMI output x1 |
| Audio input | XLR x2 (+48V/LINE), 3.5mm mini jack x1 |
| Audio output | AV output (3.5mm mini jack x1) |
| Headphone | 3.5mm mini jack x1 |
| Remote | 2.5mm mini jack x1 |
| USB | HOST x1 (Network Connection), DEVICE x1 (Mass storage) |
| INCLUDED ACCESSORIES | |
|---|---|
| Supported devices | Verizon, AT&T 4G LTE modems, Wi-Fi and LAN adapters |
| Accessories | Handle unit, Battery (SSL-JVC50) x1, AC Adapter x1 |
Model Comparison
Comparison table of JVC GY-LS300, GY-HM200, and GY-HM170 features.
| Feature / Model | GY-LS300 | GY-HM200 | GY-HM170 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Image sensor | Super 35 | 1/2.3-inch | 1/2.3-inch |
| Lens included | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| 4K Ultra HD Recording (24/25/30p) | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| 4:2:2 50Mbps HD (24p-60p) | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| SDHC/SDXC | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Dual codec recording | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Proxy recording | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Digital output | HD-SDI, HDMI | HD-SDI, HDMI | HDMI |
| XLR Audio input | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| ND Filters | 3 | 2 | 2 |
| IP connectivity | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Live streaming | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Handle unit included | [check] | [check] | [check] |
| Shotgun microphone | [check] | Optional | Optional |
| Battery | SSL-JVC50 | SSL-JVC50 | BN-VF823 |
Trademarks and disclaimers: JVC is a registered trademark of JVCKENWOOD Corporation. Product and company names are trademarks of their respective owners. QuickTime and Final Cut Pro are trademarks of Apple Inc. AVCHD Progressive is a trademark of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. HDMI, the HDMI logo, and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. XDCAM EX is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Zixi and the Zixi logo are trademarks of Zixi LLC. SD, SDHC, and SDXC are trademarks of the SD Card Association. Copyright © 2015.
