Do all DVcams (mini) allow you to move VHS recordings directly into your PC without needing to record on the DVcam, then play back through firewire to the PC.

I know you can buy boxes that do this, but a DVcam should be able to do this, but can it do it without the record phase?

What is this feature called?
Which brand/model offers these features?

Thanks!

Paul

you will need a cam with analogue inputs, some allow pass-through conversion, some don't (i.e you have to record to dv tape first then transfer it on) most canons let you convert live (look for models with the 'i' suffix).

Thanks Roy,

It appears as though most new dvcams offer this feature, most don't make it obvious, the term pass-through conversion has cracked it and got the question answered.

Now I can shop on picture quality, ease of use etc. Have you any opinions, or can you reccomend any publications that review well? I am after a simple camcorder with a good lens with moderate optical zoom, firewire and analog on a minidv for around the $1000 Australian dollars (450 pounds?).

[Duncan Craig]

All the Sonys I have allow me to transcode, most of the domestic range will (provided it has analogue in and DV-In/Out

I am getting the feeling that the Sony HC-30 is the one for me.