HDV+FCP which codec to use ?
 

Hi there, this is probably a simple question to those who know (not me!) - I have searched extensively but cannot seem to find the answer. :(

I am using a Cannon HV10 shooting HDV and would like to capture to the highest possible quality in Final Cut Pro (Mac OS X).

My question is which set-up or codec should I be using ?

I have narrowed the choices down to:

HDV - 1080i50
HDV - 1080i50 FireWire Basic
HDV - Apple Intermediate Codec 1080i50

Of course I could be completely wrong here and should be using something else ?

Anyone got an idea as to what is the difference between these codecs and which would give the best quality ?


Cheers for any help


Lee

Does your camera have an SDI output? If so I would suggest using that and going to DVCProHD.

Best

Harry.

Thanks for the reply. No the camera has no SDI output (or HDMI).

I am using firewire.

HDV seems like a buggy editing and capturing codec. From advices I've seen the intermediate codec is the way to go. It also makes editing a much lesser hassle.

Gunleik

Is the intermediate codec the better quality ?

I have no problems capturing and editing with any of these ?

Anyone here use FCP ??

:(

Yes and here's some advice:

Stay with HDV for your edit. There are a few curious quirks to capturing the footage in HDV but it should work OK. I am assuming that what ever you edit it will end up in a different format than HDV, either DVD or something else. You are safe editing in HDV but the final product should be downconverted or transcoded to a different codec using Compressor. Try to avoid going back to HDV tape. That will degrade the picture.

Intermediate works better for certain systems but isn't an improvement over HDV in quality.

Cheers William !

I will see how I get on with HDV (HDV 1080i50 setting in FCP).

Lee.