[watusi]

I'm deciding between the panasonic GS320 and the Sony HC96e.

General consensus seems to be that the PQ on the panasonic is slightly better, but I'm trying to find out whether or not the Widescreen mode on the GS320 is a true widescreen or just a cropped 4:3 image. Am I right in thinking the sony is?

[jaymac]

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/bbs/index.php pretty sure it is true widescreen But it appears to be a cut down version of the 300 which has mpre options

[redsox_mark]

Both the GS320 and HC96 are true widescreen.

Camcorderinfo has a review of the GS320 and they compare it to the HC96. Their comment on the HC96 is "Give this one a serious look before settling for Panasonic."

Note in the US the HC96 is still a current model, but in Europe it is discontinued (though still available from ebuyer last I looked).

[watusi]

Thanks for the info. i've actually got a GS320 ordered from ebuyer but keep thinking that maybe I've gone for the wrong one. I'm sure in reality they are very similar quality wise and either one would keep me very happy.

[redsox_mark]

Yes, I'm sure you'll be fine with either.

[mattr]

Isn't it hard picking a camcorder ? I've been wondering on the GS320 or HC96 (plus the SDR-H250 or H20). The only thing I have decided on is not getting a Canon as they're sooooo much more expensive here than in the US. Ok, the other cams cost more over here too, but less that Canon. See, I'm discounting them on price rather than features ... it's easier .

From what I've seen/heard the GS320 will have better colour, the HC96 better low light. And some sample movies on youtube show the electronic stabiliser on the HC96 to be really good. I think purelygadgets have the HC96 too.