How to save in same quality as my camcorder creates (m2ts)

[RedGBarn]

I want to download files from my Sony SR11e (which are m2ts 1920 x 1080i)
edit them and save in exactly the same quality on my PC

I want to check that what I am doing achieves this (and would appreciate any help)
I am using Sony Vegas (but happy to use anything) to save as
Format: Sony AVC (*mp4 *m2ts *avc)
Template: AVCHD 1920x1080 PAL

The reason I am unsure that i am saving in the same quality is
The save template doesn't quote the 'i'
The file is slightly smaller (original = 330mb save=306mb)

many thanks

[Kalos Geros]

Originally Posted by RedGBarn

The reason I am unsure that i am saving in the same quality is
The save template doesn't quote the 'i'
The file is slightly smaller (original = 330mb save=306mb)

many thanks

AFAIK, currently you cannot edit AVCHD natively without losing quality i.e. segment rendering with AVCHD is currently not supported on any NLE as it is with say HDV...so even if you exported your edit to AVCHD (same output format as input format), you actually recompressed all of it and you DID lose quality...