HDV Deck Recommendations?

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Level 1

13 points

HDV Deck Recommendations?

I need help deciding what HDV deck to buy. I'm working on a documentary, and I'm going to be capturing several hundred hours of footage, so I want to start off with the right deck.

I'm looking at some used Sony HVR-M15AU, M25U, M35U decks. So far these are the only decks I can find below $800. I'm hoping to stay below $500.

The footage is a mix of 1080i, 30p, and 24p, with Panasonic and Sony tapes, shot on a variety of cameras, mostly aSony HVR-V1U and a Canon Vixia HV30. Currently working with a 2015 27" Retina 5K iMac, FCP X, and yes I have FireWire to ThunderBolt adapters.

Between the 3 decks I haven't noticed any major differences that would come into play for me, except for the headphonjack and HDMI output not available on the M15AU. My main concern is quality and reliability. Any advice?

Posted on Jul 20, 2016 3:50 AM

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Answer 1

Alchroma

Level 7

23,918 points

Jul 20, 2016 5:03 AM in response to GRD

I use a Sony GV-HD700.

Same menu as the V1U and works with FCP X well.

Al

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Answer 2

GRD Author

Level 1

13 points

Jul 20, 2016 5:39 AM in response to Alchroma

I hadn't considered portable video recorders/Video Walkman. Would I get the same quality? Is it as durable as adeck? I'm going to be digitizing about 600hrs of footage.

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Answer 3

Jul 20, 2016 2:17 PM in response to GRD

I Use the Sony HVR M10U, 1080i 29.97. It works fine with all the tape shot with my Sony HDR-HC9 handycam. I have experienced no problems importing with FCPX. Video looks great and responds well in editing with project settings of 1080p at 29.97. I use a 2 TB GV drive with FW 800 and a 4 TB Buffalo Drivestation with USB 3.

AS for using a Walkman as regards durability - not sure on that, but I do know that when buying used, whatever it is, pay close attention to the hours of usage of said machine. Most used equipment comes with thousands, maybe 10s of thousands of hours on the meter. You'll be adding a significant number more with your 600 hours of tape. Best of luck!

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Answer 4

Alchroma

Level 7

23,918 points

Jul 20, 2016 8:42 PM in response to Nordicnorm

The output is the same as using the V1U.

As far as reliability is concerned I'd have no hangups about using my deck for several hundred hours.

Most HDV tape is metal evaporated/nice to video heads etc.

All decks require maintenance.

With used gear you don't know the history of a machine. Caveat Emptor applies.

You can check the run hours in most menus.

Al

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