Tape Transfer

[jwp]

Just curious...how do you guys transfer your wedding videos from HDV/DV tape to your computer for editing? I am looking at a Sony GV-HD700 but would like some input before spending $1200.
Thanks-Jerome

[BillGrant]

Jerome,
I use a canon HV20. It works very well, and I believe the HV30(its replacement) can be found for around $650 or so...
Bill

[HankCastello]

I always capture with the camera that shot the tape.  But if you're going to have a dedicated capture device there are a few things to consider..

If you ever shoot LP mode (as I do on weddings) then be sure your capture device can handle LP (some can't).

Consider having a device for each brand of tape (if for instance you edit for various clients) because the chemicals on the tapes do not mix well between brands and you can get build-up of gunk. ("Gunk" is the technical term).

The reason I always capture with the camera that did the shooting is because I've sometimes experienced dropouts and tracking issues before switching to that policy.

[Superfly]

Great points.

I use Vixia V30 $599 I think at BHphoto.  I own 2 but I use one as my capture cam and essentially choose to "kill it."  Lots of hours on it but it preserves the other in case of future sale.

Bottom line, I have never been able to kill any video camera that I own and I still have a Sony TRV 120 from over 10 years ago.

Cheers,

Todd

[kwshaw1]

I usually use my Sony HC1 to capture footage from all my HDV tapes; if there's a problem with tapes shot on the FX1s then I use one of those.