Optimizes VTR for Final Cut Pro Update 5.1.2, Adds 720/60p and 720/50p Record and Playback

JVC Professional Products Company announced today the release of firmware upgrade for the BR-HD50U ProHD VTR accessible by end users through the JVC Professional web site (http://pro.jvc.com). Owners of JVC BR-HD50U VTRs purchased in the United States can download the upgrade file and instructions free of charge using a Windows or Mac computer, and perform the update themselves.

The upgrade optimizes the interoperability of the BR-HD50U ProHD VTR with Final Cut Pro 5.1.2, which provides native editing support for the HDV720 24P and 25P format. Additionally, the upgrade enables the VTR to record (via IEEE1394) and playback 720/60p and 50p signals from JVC's new GY-HD250U ProHD camcorder.

The firmware upgrade will also enable the cloning of tapes when recording from another HDV source, such as a GY-HD100U, GY-HD110U, GY-HD250U or another BR-HD50U VTR.

“The capability of the JVC BR-HD50U ProHD VTR to enable owners to upgrade the firmware of their equipment is a tremendous advantage,” said Craig Yanagi, National Marketing Manager, JVC Professional Products Company. “This helps ensure our customers that the products they purchase today can easily have the most current firmware installed in their units when they become available. Equally as important, this feature enables ProHD users to upgrade their equipment efficiently in the convenience of their own facility, minimizing down time.”

Currently shipping units of JVC ProHD BR-HD50U VTRs being sold that have an “(A)” indication on the product and do not require the upgrade.

The BR-HD50U VTR firmware upgrade is now available free of charge on the JVC Professional web site (http://pro.jvc.com). Customers who don't wish to install the firmware themselves have the option of sending their unit to JVC Service and Engineering to have the firmware installed for a fee of $75.

Additional information is available on JVC’s Web site at http://pro.jvc.com.