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The PV-GS320 ($500 as of May 11, 2007) is Panasonic's top-of-the-line MiniDV camcorder. It comes with three CCDs (charge-coupled devices), for handling primary colors individually; most competing models use just one CCD. And the extra hardware works: Our panel of judges awarded this camcorder a rating of Superior for video quality in low-light and in normal shooting conditions. The only MiniDV model we've tested recently that can match the PV-GS320's video performance is the high-definition Canon HV10, which costs twice as much.
The PV-GS320 looks like a slightly slimmed-down version of Panasonic's PV-GS500, which it replaces. It fit nicely in my palm, and both its zoom control and its menu dial with joystick button were nicely positioned at my fingertips. Unfortunately, the SD Card slot for saving still photos is situated on the bottom of the unit. Consequently, if you're using a tripod, you must unscrew and remove the tripod shoe before you can swap in a new card. Another questionable design decision puts the FireWire and USB ports for transferring video to your PC under the battery. As a result, you must remove the battery and plug your AC cables into the wall before you can transfer video.
The PV-GS320 lacks a headphone jack and an external microphone input, too--a potential deal breaker for serious video jockeys. The camcorder has an accessory shoe for self-powered lights and other add-ons.
Though the camcorder's menus were easy to navigate via the controls, they occupy the entire 2.7-inch LCD screen, which makes previewing changes to your settings difficult unless you back out of all of the menus first.
The PV-GS320's 3.1-megapixel still shots earned a rating of Very Good, with especially high marks for color accuracy. The only performance detail that didn't rate well was battery life: The camcorder captured a somewhat skimpy 81 minutes of video on a full charge.
Compared with other three-CCD MiniDV camcorders--including the model it replaces--the Panasonic PV-GS320 is a bargain. Despite some design quirks, this camcorder is a good choice for people who want great-looking video without paying high-definition prices.
James Galbraith
