I concure with you Shane, FCP4.5+ supports capturing and editing in the DVCPRO HD codec, which is the native format for the Panasonic VariCam. FCP4.5+ also does NOT state that it supports editing HDCAM which is the native recording format of the Sony HDW-F900 according to
http://www.apple.com/finalcutstudio/finalcutpro/specs.html.
FCP5+ has capture and control presets for DVCPRO HD, but NOT HDCAM, so unless I can get documentation that states FCP will support HDCAM or someone with hands on capturing and editing experience with the Sony, I'll lean toward recommending the Panasonic VariCam for this job and hope that Apple will read this and provide an explanation why there isn't a capture preset/control or support for this recording format.
I understand that FCP may actually support HDCAM as an uncontollable or generic device, but something like this needs to be clear at least in my mind.
In addition, considering that the Sony HDC-F950 is a full bandwidth 4:4:4 RGB HD camera, and it is now being used more and more (Star Wars, Sin City, etc) you'd think that Apple could support HDCAM so people won't need to go to third party devices or alternative editing systems. Apple are you listening?
Any further input on this subject is appreciated.
Dave