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.

. 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
Bruce S. Gruenbaum (Arcadia, CA USA)
72 out of 76 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.


Digital Quality On 8mm   July 27, 2000
Kurt (Sioux City, Iowa)
79 out of 84 found this review helpful

I got my video camera on June 10th and have been using it almost everyday since. I've used it on everything from taping around the house to taping weddings. It's very easy to use, even with all of the features. The best of which has to be the 'info' battery which tells you exactly how much time you have remaining on the battery. It also takes digital pictures in addition to video. The only drawback is the the battery has to be charged while on the camera. The first thing I bought extra was an external charger so that I can charge one battery while still using the camera.


Technology these day.   October 14, 2000
andrew franks (Vashon, WA USA)
29 out of 29 found this review helpful

About three years ago i bought a sony camcorder for about $800. I just bought the sony dcr trv320 for about the same price. And what it has compared to my other camera is unbelievable. Anywhere from nightvision to a digital camera. But what you have to watch out for is knowing that when you purchase a sony product be prepared to spend alot of extra money if you purchase any acessories


My only regret: I didn't buy it sooner   September 5, 2000
30 out of 31 found this review helpful

I've used VHS-C video camcorders in the past. But this camera just blows them away.

I know virtually nothing about taking video shots, but after a week with this camera, my footage rivals any TV show in quality!

You can't believe the quality of image this camcorder puts out.

Easy to use, and packed with features. I use this thing every day. Sound and image quality is unbelievable.

You can buy a longer battery life if you want too, which is incredible, 8 hours or so. (It's heavier, though, so I just bought an extra standard battery).