JVC GR-AX760 VHS-C Analog Camcorder

I purchased my first GR-AX760U from a dealer on ebay. This was a factory-reconditioned model. Initially, the unit worked OK. After approximately two months of very light use, some major tracking problems developed. Shortly thereafter, the unit stopped feeding tape properly (i.e. insert the tape, press play or record, the tape would jam and the unit would shut off). I tried many different cassettes made by different manufacturers, but to no avail. As I only paid $179 for the unit, and the cost of repair (even a diagnostic examination) is prohibitively expensive, I simply threw it in the trash.

Attributing my problems to the fact the unit was reconditioned, I decided to purchase another (brand new) GR-AX760U at a major electronics dealer. Once again, after about three months of light use, tracking issues developed. A very similar tape feed problem also arose, although this one was possible to overcome by manually advancing the tape a little bit. The straw that broke the proverbial camel's back, however, was when the image in the viewfinder started quivering almost constantly.

I know of several other people who once owned JVC camcorders (different models) and had similar problems. I strongly suspect that this is the last JVC product (camcorder, at least) that I shall purchase.