3 smaller CCDs or 1 big CCD: which is better?

Question

I've narrowed it down between the Panasonic GS500 and the Canon HV20, and here is one of my many dilemmas in choosing between them. the GS500 has three 1/4.7" chips vs. the HV20 that has one big 1/2.7" chip. the canon is HD, while the panasonic is not. but wouldn't the 3CCDs just about equal the picture quality that the canon offers? how do they compare?

Answer 1

Half Dozen to one, 6 to another.  Canon and Sony are going with the CMOS.  The HV30 and the SDR12 sport improved CMOS sensors.   Panasonic is sticking with the CCD's for now.  Good info here on the comparison. http://www.dalsa.com/markets/ccd_vs_cmos...

Answer 2

I can't comment on the specific camcorders, but 3 CCDs tend to give better colours while larger ones are better in low light conditions.