VHS into Final Cut Pro

use a DV camera with analog input as a go between ... rca from vhs to camera, firwire from camera to mac, then use FCP's log and capture with capture settings > device control set to non-controllable device

You have a couple of choices:

1. Connect the VHS VCR's analog outputs to a DV recording device to dub the footage, then log and capture the DV footage in FCP as normal.

2. Connect the VHS VCR's analog outputs to your DV device (camcorder, VTR or converter), then connect your DV device to your Mac via Firewire. In FCP set Device Control to "Non-Controllable Device" and use Capture Now.

To achieve the best results using either method, use a TBC in-line between the VHS VCR and your DV device.

-DH

The easiest way is to use a DV bridge. and is perhaps the only really viable choice with the iMac. There are several manufacturers with quality devices. The major differences are the on board TBCs and the devices capability to sync with the source media.

My DV bridge of choice is a Sony DVMC DA-2. It has an outstanding ability to lock on to very poor video and can defeat analog copy protection schemes. Unfortunately it is no longer made as a stand alone unit. Higher end Sony DV cams like the VX-2000 incorporate this in their design and can be used very effectively as a DV Bridge.

Secondly I would choose one of the Canopus ADVC line. These are also very good DV bridges. Some have configurable TBCs. They will lock on to most video without difficulty.

There is also the Hollywood DV Bridge. It has similar video quality as the other DV Bridges in this list but it requires very stable video to work well.

There are several others out there, but these are the ones I am familiar with. Some day I would like to try the Formac Studio as it includes a tuner and TVR software.

All of these DV Bridges are priced typically under $500 some as low as $150.00. You can still find the SONY DVMC line used for about $300.00.

I hope this assists you in your quest.

Regards,

Dave F