Is there a way to record directly to a DVD via a firewire using a PD 170 or Z1?

I gone to DVD direct numerous times with 170s/250s BUT not thru firewire. The DVD burners i have don't have FW capabilityso I used S video and composite audio. Works great for seminars. Just a note to add though, most times when I go straight back to DVD I use a small DA and run 2 machinces. That way I have a backup just in case. Generally the events I have done straight to DVD never run more than 1 1/2 hours or so without a break but watch your time.

I've used FW out of a Sony PD150 to go direct into FW In on a Panasonic DVD recorder with no issues.

sure...you just have to find a stand-alone DVD burner with firewire input. I have an old Sony RDR-GX7 and I go firewire directly in from my avid, dvcam deck and canon XL1.

I know the TV top dvd recorders will work, but I wonder if there is something a little more portable (smaller)?

I've used a Toshiba DR-400 to record from a GL2's firewire out, worked great.

Note that many of the panasonic dvd recorders get a bad rep for picture quality, especially recording in 4 hour mode. You can see a list of ratings of recorders with firewire at

DVD Recorder and Blu-ray Recorder list (http://www.videohelp.com/dvdrecorders?DVDname=&pcilink2=1&hdsize=Any&dvdportable=&dvdchanger=&dvdtv=&&hits=50&Submit=Search&Search=Search&orderby=Rating)

Note that just because a DVD recorder has a FW port doesn't mean it will take FW output from a PC. My Toshiba only assured it would work with a camcorder.

--Shayne Weyker

Thanks Shayne...I'll check out that website.

Bill, you also might want to check these threads already in progress

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/dvd-web-video-delivery/137520-sony-vrd-mc5-standalone-burner-can-burn-live.html

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/wedding-event-videography-techniques/56990-record-dvd-live-fly-event.html

Good info on this subject in there.

Thanks Byran....that is just what I needed.