1×Component (YPbPr) (BNC, Stereo audio via RCA (connector))
1×S-Video (Y/C) (Mini-DIN-4, audio shared w/ HD Component)
1×Component (YPbPr) (BNC)
JVC - Communicore Case History
JVC - Price & Warranty
JVC - Accessories
JVC - Similar Models
JVC - Pictures
JVC - Product Overview
JVC - Case History
Description
The JVC SR-W320U is the original first-generation W-VHS HDTV recorder/player. It records and plays back high-definition "Hi-vision" baseband signals in W-VHS HD mode using a rotary 4-head helical scanning system, and supports standard-definition recording in W-VHS SD mode using temporal compression (TCI) with a rotary 2-head system. The unit is fully backward-compatible with VHS and S-VHS cassettes for conventional recording and playback. At an MSRP of $9,850, it was the most expensive model in JVC's W-VHS lineup, positioned above the later JVC SR-W7U ($6,069) and JVC SR-W5U ($4,890). Unlike the 3rd-generation SR-W7U, the SR-W320U uses RS-232C serial control (rather than RS-422A) and does not include SMPTE timecode or D-sub 15-pin RGB output. Its composite video connections use professional BNC connectors rather than RCA. The unit includes HD component (YPbPr) input and output for Hi-vision signals, along with S-Video and composite connections for standard-definition content. A monaural audio input (left channel only) is available on the front panel. JVC's case history records the SR-W320U in a Communicore partnership that helped deliver early HDTV programming. The compatible KH-100U-CB 3-CCD self-contained HDTV camera ($62,500) was listed as a companion accessory. The SR-W320U features a built-in timer capable of 8 programs over 2 weeks with a 24-hour clock system. Power consumption is 78 W during operation (10 W standby).
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power supply | AC 120 V, 60 Hz |
| Power consumption | 78 W (10 W standby) |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 445 × 182 × 463 mm (17.5 × 7.2 × 18.2 in) |
| Weight | 16.2 kg (35.7 lb) |
| Operating temperature | +5 °C to +40 °C |
| Operating humidity | 35% to 80% |
| Storage temperature | −20 °C to +60 °C |
Recording Formats
| Mode | System | Heads |
|---|---|---|
| W-VHS HD mode | Rotary helical scan | 4-head |
| W-VHS SD mode | Rotary helical scan, TCI temporal compression FM recording | 2-head |
| S-VHS / VHS | Rotary helical scan, luminance FM / color phase-shift sub-carrier | 2-head |
HiFi Audio
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Recording system | VHS stereo HiFi |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Dynamic range | ≥90 dB |
| Wow & flutter | ≤0.005% |
| Channel separation | ≥60 dB |
A secondary linear monaural audio track is also available. The front panel provides a monaural audio input (left channel only, RCA) for dubbing convenience.
Timer
The built-in timer supports 8 programs over a 2-week period using a 24-hour clock system. Battery backup provides approximately 30 minutes of clock retention during power loss.
Provided Accessories
The SR-W320U shipped with a cleaning tape and power cord. The JVC KH-100U-CB 3-CCD self-contained HDTV camera ($62,500, discontinued) was listed as a compatible companion accessory on the JVC Pro website.[1]
References
- ↑ "SR-W320U Accessories". JVC Professional Products Company. Retrieved February 5, 2026.
