We have a xl2 and use a less expensive cam to transfer file to PC. If we get the XLH1 hd version can I still use the sd cam to transfer, or does it have to be hd?

It will need to be either a XLH1, XHA1 or an HV30 (series of cameras). Most people used to buy an HV camera; though seemingly the wear and tear on the heads was never as bad as people were led to believe.

You could also get something to record from the HD/SDI of firewire cable as you are recording to tape (like a firestore or datavideo dn-60 for the firewire, or a nanoflash or samurai for the HD/SDI).

Thank you so much for your help.. So if understand it must be a HD cam to up load HDV tape to My PC and NOT a SD cam

Imo grab a Canon HV40 before they disappear altogether, doubles as a B cam as well.

Read the reviews .. Canon VIXIA HV40 High Definition Camcorder 3686B001 B&H Photo


Cheers.

It will need to be either a XLH1, XHA1 or an HV30 (series of cameras).

I have successfully captured tapes shot with a xh-a1 in 25f with a sony fx1000 a few years ago, then was also said you needed a canon camera to do that but to my surprise the Sony worked just as well.

So if understand it must be a HD cam to up load HDV tape to My PC and NOT a SD cam

The playback machine (often a camcorder) must be able to playback HDV format tape if you shot the tape in HDV format rather than DV format. Also, many play machines have some internal settings that must be correct for capture over the IEEE1394 link to work. DV only players will not understand the HDV-recorded tape.

The HV40 is the current Canon minimalist HDV camcorder, it replaced the HV30 in their line a couple years ago. The Canon HDV signal is 1440x1080.

Some HDV machines may be 720p and not understand the Canon recording.

Thank you.. I GOT IT NOW