Video editing is made simpler with the inclusion of IEEE 1394, a digital, bidirectional, high-speed communications port that makes it easy to download video and audio to a computer or other IEEE 1394-based editing device.

The DCR-TRV320 also doubles as a digital still camera, recording photos onto a Memory Stick card.

With Sony's NightShot infrared system, the DCR-TRV320 can shoot in zero-lux (no light) conditions. Fourteen picture effects and a five-mode AV fader aid in the creation of compelling footage, whatever your subject. The DCR-TRV320 also has a swivel-mounted 2.5-inch LCD monitor. Other features include: end search, which automatically forwards your tape to the end of the last footage shot; edit search; a seven-mode program auto exposure for a variety of shooting environments; analog AV inputs with pass through; and an intelligent shoe for accessories.

Product Description
Sony's DCR-TRV320 is two cameras in one. It records digital video on affordable Digital 8 cassettes and it captures digital still images on versatile Memory Stick media. Built-in Digital Still Camera with Memory Stick allows you to store still images in digital format at 640x480 resolution in Sony's new Memory Stick memory. Digital 8 Achieves stunning picture quality, with up to 500 lines of horizontal resolution and records high quality 12-bit digital stereo audio.SteadyShot Picture Stabilization Another thing you don't need to worry about is holding the camcorder perfectly still. Sony's SteadyShot system uses sophisticated motion sensors to remove unwanted picture shake. 12-bit/16-bit PCM Digital Stereo Audio Recording offers a choice of either a single 16-bit/48kHz stereo audio track for DAT-quality recording, or two 12-bit/32kHz stereo tracks for CD sound quality. To make sure you get the maximum benefit from each charge, Sony's InfoLithium batteries have no life-shortening "memory effect." To keep you informed of remaining power, Sony's AccuPower meter spells out remaining battery time in minutes on the camcorder's LCD Monitor or Viewfinder. Super NightShot enables you to shoot subjects up to 3 meters away in total darkness. That's why Sony cut power consumption and extended battery life. Control L (LANC) provides two-way communication between the camcorder and other video devices. Six Mode Program AE provides quick and easy setting for the proper exposure, shutter, and depth of field setting for a variety of environments. There are six modes: Portrait, Beach/Ski, Sports Lesson, Landscape, Spotlight, and Sunset/Moon. Forget about cables, wires and adapters. Sony's Super LaserLink system uses infrared light to make a wireless connection from your camcorder to your television. Just use the transmitter in that is built-in to the camcorder together with the optional receiver. The Super LaserLink System features a transmission range up to 8 meters.

. I have ordered, but not yet received, the Sony 2x teleconverter lense so that I can get less pixellation at maximum useable magnifcation.

I also bought an 8-hour battery. I recommend 2 8-hour batteries and a rapid charger (which works off both AC and 12VDC instead of the 12-hour battery. With two batteries and a quick charger you should never run out of juice.

Nightshot works well up to about 15 feet but uses substantially more power than without, so battery life is decreased. An image intensifier attachment would be a *really* handy accessory for long range nighttime videotaping. I plan to try using the 320 with both an astronomical telescope and a microscope in the near future.


Most versatile camcorder available   August 28, 2000
 71 out of 75 found this review helpful

I just bought the DCRTRV720 - the 320's bigger brother. It has a bigger LCD screen, a color viewfinder and a remote. The bigger LCD screen and the remote were the motivating factors over the 320.

This is definitely the most terrific camera I have ever worked with. The picture quality is outstanding, and there is absolutely no shortage of features. Combined with the my Apple PowerMac G4 Cube and it's editing software iMovie, this camera absolutely rocks.

I bought this specifically for digital work, but liked the versatility of being able to take existing standard 8 and Hi 8 tapes and play them back into my Mac so that they can be used for editing. There is no range of cameras on the market other than the Sony DCRTRV range that will allow you to do this. MiniDV is also way more expensive.

Also cool are the digital stills that you can take with this camera. I bought a digital camera just before I bought the camcorder and I am now really sorry that I did. The camcorder does a much better job of the digital stills than the digital camera does.

I would recommend this camcorder range, and especially the 720 over anything else in the market.


Great video; not so great stills.   December 7, 2000
 32 out of 32 found this review helpful

I'm quite pleased with the audio and video quality of this camcorder, as well as the plethora of features and effects (though most I'll probably never use). I like the steadyshot, nightshot, and being able to shoot in widescreen format -- those are my favorite features. What I'm terribly disappointed in with this camera is the quality of the still images; I get better quality from a disposable. In short, stills look absolutely terrible. I have fooled with taking stills under a variety of conditions, and they only look "decent" under the most optimal lighting circumstances. I can't complain too much since this is a secondary feature of the camcorder, and the video and audio really are remarkable, but I wish I had known that I'd also have to buy a digital still camera when shopping for this one.