Unfortunately, I don't have an answer to your question. However, since you are an Optura 600 owner, I was wondering if you wouldn't mind telling me how you like it so far, and what other camcorders you were considering.
I am VERY close to purchasing the Optura 600 because I like the fact that it is both a good camcorder and a decent "still-camera". However, it's not cheap, and I just want to make sure I'm making a wise investment. Plus, most people are pushing the 3CCD devices these days. I would just be interested in hearing why you chose the Optura 600. Thanks!!
Recently purchased a Canon Optura 600, love the camcorder for many reasons; lens, resolution, options, size, etc. People who have complained about the buttons and ergonomics must not be coordinated (small hands, I can understand).
I've been experimenting, transferring MiniDV to my PC through a FireWire card. After editing the footage with Pinnacle Studio 9, I then saved the file in MPEG format (Pinnacle Studio 9 has this option) in order to burn a DVD using SONIC.
After burning the DVD I played it in my sony DVD player, the footage and audio were substandard compared to footage played directly from the MiniDV.
Question, by transferring, editing and saving in MPEG format, does the footage loose significant quality or am I doing something wrong?
Also, should I attempt to save the file in MPEG-4 format, will this make a difference?
Thanks in advance.

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