Panasonic PV-GS320 3.1MP 3CCD MiniDV Camcorder with 10x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom

It's certainly not the best camera out there, but for the money, you can't beat it. Better than camera's costing 50% more.

This is a great camera that is easy to use and takes great video in almost every situation. This camera is for the person who wants to video his family and friends and keep is simple.

The only complaint is the way it fits in your hand - it will flop over if you let go of it and just use the strap.

Works with my Mac.

When its time for me to replace my old Mini-DV camcorder I made an extensive research whether to buy another old technology camcorder (mini-dv or DVD based) or buy a new technology camcorder (HD or hard drive based). I finally compromised on buying this, since this is a compromise between old and new. It uses 3CCD technology which is cool because the same tech. is used in professional cameras.

Am I satisfied with my purchase? A big Yes. Especially the capability to record still images on a SD card at an amazing clarity eliminated the need for me to carry both camcorder and digital camera.

I would recommend to buy this to anyone who is looking for a budget camcorder but do not want to compromise on quality.

I purchased the Panasonic PV-GS320 model to replace the PV-GS85 I'd been using for five months. Although I'm missing the more powerful optical zoom of the 85, the much more realistic color balance of the 320 worth the change. I think I could only change this excellent camera if I find a significantly better HD model. Videos in standard and widescreen modes are beautifully captured when using adequate illumination. Still pictures are also very good in standard size, but pictures in widescreen mode have less resolution.

I recommend this camera to those needing great recordings on mini-dv format.

To get a camera with a 3CCD lense for under $400 is pretty amazing. Now, it's not perfect and definitely consumer-grade but it can shoot a professional-grade shot in the hands of an experinced user. I would recommend getting 37mm filters and maybe some accessory lenses if you want to have more fun and flexibility. The BIG think that's lacking is an audio out to lest recording levels from the mic input. That is quite annoying but I guess we'll have to pay more to get into the pro range for that feature. It is a great value at a low price and we've bought several.