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General discussion

speed of video capture for Mini DV

Jan 30, 2006 6:36AM PST

I've been capturing video from my old Sony Analog 8mm and then burning to DVD using Sonic MYDVD with acceptable results (not doing any fancy editing, etc.)

My question is this: Assuming I use a firewire connection, does Mini DV video transfer to a PC in real time (1 hr tape time takes 1 hr to capture) like my analog cam?

Discussion is locked

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(NT) (NT) Yes.
Jan 30, 2006 6:47AM PST
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then what is the big deal
Jan 31, 2006 1:29AM PST

So if capturing takes the same time, what is the big deal about DV? Is there a significant tech reason that I should replace a functional (albeit analog) camcorder?

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mini-dv
Jan 31, 2006 1:41AM PST

You just said it. It is digital, not analog.

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digital vs analog
Jan 31, 2006 3:10AM PST

To get a good demonstration of the difference between analog and digital, compare the picture on a good plasma TV of analog material (via VHS or standard cable) with digital HDTV on cable, satellite, or dvd. The difference is stunning when you see them side by side.

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digital
Jan 31, 2006 4:57AM PST

Now, lets not confuse the poor guy here. Digital does not mean HD. Mini-dv is wonderful digital quality video.... much, much better than analog.
HD is a whole different ball game. The least expensive one out is $1500.

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MY VHS is HD...
Jan 31, 2006 8:16AM PST

..."Horrible Definition." Happy

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Careful! Some one will soon appear thinking that VHS really
Jan 31, 2006 8:33AM PST

IS hd. Groan.

Wink

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(NT) (NT) Remeber was 260 lines was good??? John
Feb 1, 2006 3:16AM PST
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ok
Feb 1, 2006 7:59AM PST

So would I be able to see a REALLY big resolution difference between DV and Analog on a standard TV or will the difference become more apparent on a more advanced display (plasma, etc.)

Also, like my original question alluded to, my main interest is in transfering video to PC quickly. Would a Hard Drive camcorder facilitate a "faster than real time" transfer? I just hate having to sit around for an hour or two waiting for a 1-2 hour tape to transfer.

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Gain and loss.
Feb 1, 2006 8:14AM PST

From what I've seen the hard disk models can transfer faster but the compression knocks the video quality down to less than DV.

Bob

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misplaced entusiasm
Jan 31, 2006 10:00AM PST

Okay, I accept the criticism. The comparison should be bewtween Hi 8 footage and miniDV footage properly processed by firewire capture and dvd played on a standard TV. I have just acquired a Sony HC 32 miniDv and have been processing old 8mm footage and recent miniDV footage and viewing the difference on a standard TV. There is a distinct differce in favor of miniDV. Its like comparing dvd clarity and VHS.