Yes, that's the one. the DCR-TRV140. Thanks. That's great info. By the by in the DCR-TRV140 manual it mentions connecting a DV ourput from a VCR to the DV input of the camera. Does that mean that if a VCR has a DV output (firewire) that it is doing the A to D conversion? And if so then maybe that would be another option for me. What do you think?

Thanks again,
Todd

Based on your description of the type of work you do, I think a converter is a better choice. I just went through the same decision-making process. Here's why I did what I did:

First--If you are working mostly with VHS, you can simply hook your VCR to the converter. The print to tape function on the Canopus works directly with the VCR. You can do all of your editing with a minimum amount of equipment and not expose your camera to uncessary wear and tear.

Second--Some say spend the extra money and just get a digital camera. This is sound advice if you don't have a camera or if you are ready to upgrade. However, as you have discovered, the digital pass through feature is not available on many of the entry level digital camcorders. This means you are most likely going to have to buy a more expensive camera to get the pass through function. In my opinion, this makes the converter a less expensive choice. A converter gives you more flexibility on the camera you buy(when you are ready) because you can get a less expensive camera if you don't require a digital pass through.

Third--Camera prices aren't going to do anything but fall and the market for second hand converters (except for the Hollywood Dazzle) has remained strong. I watched E-Bay for a while before buying my converter. The price of most second-hand converters is the same as what many of the units cost new. You can always edit your VHS tapes and sell the converter when you are done. Who knows, you might make money on the deal.

Fourth--The print to tape function can allow you to go directly to VHS without getting other equipment involved.

I did a write of of my experience with the Canopus ADVC-100. You can find it here:

http://home.insight.rr.com/rwsjr/ad.pdf

I hope this helps. Like I said, I went through the same thing recently and feel comfortable with my decision. It is not as easy of a decision to make as it appears if aren't quite ready to buy a new camera.

I'm in the same boat as naclhead is. I will be using a lot of VHS back and forth and the analog camcorder I have now is a dog. It would be nice to have a dedicated A/D converter like the Canopus, but I also need a new DV Camcorder. Decisions, decisions!!! What to do with the money I don't really have?

Anyway, you make some good points. From everything I have read, I would not use any other A/D converter other than the Canopus ADVC-100 and I am also leaning on Sony as the brand of choice for cameras.

HeeHee

naclhead,

DV VHS recorders, from what I have heard, are very expensive. I think we are talking in the $1000-$2000 range or maybe more. You might as well get the Canopus.

HeeHee

As reported here before, ALL TRV dig8 camcorders in the original series featured A/D pass-thru-even the TRV120. The second and third series removed A/D pass-thru from their entry level models, the TRV's 130 & 140. All models other than the entry level models in the Dig8 lines have the pass-thru feature. Your best bet is to try and find a camera from the first series, before sony decided we were getting too good a deal and cheapened things down, as all the first series cameras had larger LCD screens. 2 weeks ago COMPUSA was selling refurb TRV 120's/w,new warranty for $329..