Thanks for all the replies. Drew, do you mean that you capture as AIC? Or you capture as HDV and then convert to AIC? If the latter, how is that done? Thanks.

Hi, Dave,

I capture to HDV and then use Batch Export feature to convert all clips to DVCProHD (720p). On a quad G5 it takes roughly 2:1 realtime (2 min/1 min).
If my sequence uses lots of overlays and intricate, detailed graphics I batch export to AIC instead.

Ah, thanks. So here's the dumb question: why convert to DVCProHD? Are you working with 1080i footage originally (from a Sony FX1, for example), and if so, is there any problem converting to 720p?

Turbo 264 fun
 

Just bought an Elgato Turbo264 USB stick...

DVCPro 720p/24 to...
iPod Standard (640x480): 17 FPS (!)
iPod Regular (320x240): 60 FPS (!!)
AppleTV (800x480): 17 FPS (!)

Those encode time clearly beat Compressor. The files are also 5-10% smaller. Quality is the same as Compressor multipass.

So far, so good!

Dave,

I find that DVCProHD is better to work with because 1) Each frame is individual; 2) FCP runs faster with DVCProHD workflow.

I find that converting interlaced to progressive sacrifices a bit in image quality. That said, if you want to go to 720p then the better compromise is 720p60 from 1080i60.

best regards