DV/Mini DV Tape Reader

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Level 1

0 points

DV/Mini DV Tape Reader

Hello All,
I do a bit of video editing as a small business/hobby. I have just started the business with already a few jobs on the go. I am wondering if there is a DV/Mini DV Tape reader available on the market for quick importing/capturing and fast forwarding/rewinding capabilities. I do not want to wear out my camcorder with all my importing from tape. Is there any other options instead having to buy a cheap camcorder for this work?

Any suggestions???

Macbook Pro, Mac OS X (10.4.8), Macbook Pro 2.33 15inch

Posted on Mar 1, 2007 3:28 AM

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Answer 1

Mar 1, 2007 3:50 AM in response to iedit

You can always buy a cheap camcorder, but it won't look as professional. As for a tape reader, I think you mean a Tape Deck. These cost lots of $$$ (as in the thousands), so you must decide if you want professional, or a cost efficient method. If you are going with the tape deck option, I don't have a particular suggestion, but I heat that Sony's work pretty well. As for the camera, as low as you can go (just make sure it has Firewire).

- Craig

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Answer 2

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Mar 1, 2007 4:27 AM in response to iedit

Google Sony DV decks. DSR-11, 20, 25, 40, 45, 1500, 1800. There are plenty of them. The DSR-11 is very popular for price to performance. Stay away from the JVC dual deck players, VHS/DV combo decks.

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Answer 3

Mar 1, 2007 6:13 AM in response to iedit

There are 8 decks for sale on ebay right now at this code:

http://search.ebay.com/search/search.dll?cgiurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcgi.ebay.com%2Fws%2 F&fkr=1&from=R8&satitle=minidvdeck&category0=

Best,
Jess

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Answer 4

Mar 1, 2007 6:15 AM in response to iedit

though I know you are in Australia. . .maybe Craigslist? Down under?

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Answer 5

iedit Author

Level 1

0 points

Mar 3, 2007 8:14 PM in response to iedit

Thanks everyone for your replies. Checked out some DV tape decks and got quite a shock with the prices...sheesh. Think I will just buy another cheap camcorder to use for this purpose.

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Answer 6

Alchroma

Level 7

23,918 points

Mar 4, 2007 12:23 AM in response to iedit

G'Day Cobber,

Using a DV camera as a deck is great idea.
Think about a model that works with your existing gear so that batteries, chargers etc. can be interchanged. You have a back up camera as well and the advantage of having two cams at a shoot.

Al from OZ.

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