Question regarding Sony HDV compatibility with FCP
 

Forgive my ignorance with this particular area. I haven't really worked in-depth with HDV codecs and I haven't used the recent HDV Sony cameras. While I am asking about Sony cams in this post, it really pertains to how FCP deals with the codecs.

I have a friend who has played around over the years with FCP and an older SD digicam, but wants to invest in some new HDV gear. He has heard a few things that puzzle him, and has asked me about the following - which I can't answer due to my ignorance of the subject.


As HDV codecs seem to be a subset of the Mpeg2 system, when being recorded onto drive based cams, they must be trans-encoded with software (MPEGStreamclip???) to be compatibale with FCP.

However, since many HDV cams record onto minidv tape, I am curious as to how it does this with the mpeg2 codec and does the tape system make it natively importable into FCP in the same log and capture process used for SD?

He has expressed interest in buying either a Sony FX1 or the Z1, but was told that in order to capture into FCP, he would need to purchase another app for $180. I assume he is referring to Lumiere HD.

So basically he wants to know if this information is accurate or if going HD would be a hassle for a hobbyist workflow. He believes the hangup is with FCP as he believes that PC based apps can natively import HDV footage.

In a nutshell, what is the process for log and capture into FCP using HDV cams such as the Sony FX1? Additionally, what are the minimum specs required? (ie: version of FCP, drive storage required per hour of HDV footage? etc.)

Thanks in advance.

-Jon

The FX1 and Z1 will work "right out of the box" with FCP 5.0.x and up; you don't need any additional software unless you're trying to do something unusual. Perhaps you're thinking of earlier versions of FCP? Version 4.5 could not work natively with HDV and you needed a third party application. If you have one of those earlier versions you should upgrade to the current one and you'll be good to go!

Thanks Boyd. I will pass your info onto him. He will be very grateful.

-Jon

Does that go for other HDV cameras, such as JVC 24/25p?

Thanks