The MG730 is JVC's top of the line, standard-definition, HDD-based camcorder. It features a large sensor and 7 megapixel resolution, which allows it to act as a hybrid video/photo camera, and JVC's new touch-control system. Running a finger over the vertical strip at the edge of the LCD scrolls up and down through the camera's menus. But actual selections require the click of a separate button, which defeats the purpose of having touch controls and begs the question: why not stick with a joystick, which turns out to be faster and more precise. Ultimately, the MG730 is a small hybrid with a plentiful 30GB hard-drive, but its value is brought down by its $635 price and a very light-insensitive f3.5 lens. Lack of audio features doesn't help either.



The 1 / 2.5-inch, 7.38 megapixel CCD sensor is similar in size to those found in Sanyo's ultra-compact hybrids. The JVC's image quality is however bound to be better, due to more advanced in-camera image processing. But when compared to much cheaper MiniDv camcorders, the effects of the much more aggressive compression will be visible. The best quality available here is 9.8 Mbps, which allows the 30 GB HDD to hold 7 hours of footage.



The 35x Konica Minolta zoom lens opens up to a stunningly poor f3.5. This manages to instantly kill any hopes that the camera will perform well in low-light conditions Only digital stabilization is used for the lens. The 2.7-inch widescreen LCD is designed to reduce reflections and glare, and the automatic LCD backlight will help viewing in direct sunlight. 



Shutter and aperture priority modes allow some degree of manual control, but not enough for the price.



Stills can be captured at a 3072 x 2304 pixel resolution to MicroSD cards. The MG730 is capable of exposure bracketing (shooting multiple exposures, above and below the chosen aperture, as a safety measure against over or under-exposure) and displaying a histogram. These are good features that push this camcorder's photo capabilities further in consumer still camera territory. Also available is an automatic flash.



When you close the LCD, “Power-Linked Operation” reduces battery consumption by shutting down most functions, but keeps the camera action-ready for when you flip it open again.



The MG730 has an on-board stereo microphone, but that's as far as its audio features extend.



USB2.0, AV In/Out, and DC in are the ports found on the camcorder. On the included dock - AV In/Out, S-Video In/Out, USB2.0, DV Out (Firewire).