JVC concentrates on core products

As usual, JVC’s Key Dealer Meeting (KDM) offered a chance to get an exclusive preview of the manufacturer’s new products for the year. The 2008 meeting saw JVC building on its existing ranges as well as introducing some market exclusives.
Following the trend for slim line TVs, JVC introduced what it claims to be the world’s thinnest LCD TVs with built-in tuners. Available as a 42in model, with a 46in version due in May, the S Series full HD panels measure just 39mm deep at the slimmest point and 74mm at the widest point. As with all of JVC’s new TV models, the S Series has been designed with slimmer speakers and bezel to give a smaller footprint.
The flagship V Series of slim line TVs, which will incorporate 100Hz Clear Motion   Drive II processing, are due to launch in October.
Everio expansion
Expanding its successful range of Everio hard disk camcorders, JVC introduced the GZ-HD6 and GZ-HD5 – which it claims are the world’s first 1920 x1080 full HD hard disk camcorders with 1080p 50fps HDMI output for full HD 50p displays. The new models are also 45% smaller than JVC’s previous top-end HD camcorder.
The manufacturer also introduced an wide array of new standard-def Everio models, including the GZ-MG330, available in silver, red, blue or black.
Keeping up the High Definition theme, JVC previewed a Blu-ray home cinema system. Designed to fit into the manufacturer’s Sophisti range, the NX-BD3 is a 2.1 system which includes a Blu-ray player which supports BD-Live functionality and is equipped with a 1.3 HDMI connection. The system is expected to be available by the end      of 2008, while a standalone Blu-ray deck is due to hit shops in 2009.
Again, building on the success of its existing ranges, JVC has expanded its accessory range with a host of products carrying the official ‘Made for iPod’ branding. The new Marshmallow in-ear headphones (HA-FX34) have been styled in a range of colours to match Apple’s third-generation iPod nano and iPod shuffle models. The headphones are also compatible with the Apple iPhone, unlike those from many other manufacturers. Also, the popular Gumy range of heaphones (HA-F130) has been expanded to include three new colours, to match the new generation of iPods.
Two new iPod dock designs, due for launch in June, were also previewed, including a dual docking system, which houses two iPods at once.
Future technology?
JVC gave a hint of the technologies that it may be producing in the future, with an array of concept models.
The manufacturer exhibited an LED backlit LCD panel, with a 100,000: contrast ratio and low power consumption, which is due to hit shops in 2009.
Another highlight was a TV that can be turned on and off simply by a click of the fingers or a hand clap. The onscreen menus can also be operated using hand movements.