Tape is almost dead but...

So, recently I just have worked on digitizing some tape-based media i.e. from a DV camera and also from non controllable device a.k.a a VCR. I know tape is on it's 9th life but working with that type of media in FCPX is a terrible experience. I love FCPX dearly but I still think Apple should give us some different preferences to manipulate how FCPX handles that type of media. Because of my frustration I had to go to a legacy version of FCP and trust me I was missing the speed of FCPX. I know tape is on it's way out if not already there now and I know FCPX is in it's infant stages but I would love to see some different import preferences for tape based media in the next update. Anyway this is just a rant...

JF1,
You just need to do the tape import, and then you can use all the features of FCPX. FCPX still allows you to import from camera, whether tape or card, and then it is the same NLE.
Not sure what preferences you would like to see but I don't expect Apple will be putting more effort into tape import or export.
Hope this helps, Greg

Weird, FCP X has made tape import easier than ever. What's your problem?

FCP X doesn't work well with non-Timecode sources. If it doesn't get a DV standard timecode stream via Firewire, it usually screws up really bad, if capturing at all.

About the only converter that works is the Canopus AVC300 or whatever. Usually best to dub to DV if you need to capture analog.

Or just use camera as pass thru. Most/some tape cameras will input from a VHS tape deck (RCA Composite, whatever) then out FW to computer. I haven't had a problem importing this way in the past. Quality is cr.. only VHS at best.
Greg

BenB wrote: FCP X doesn't work well with non-Timecode sources. If it doesn't get a DV standard timecode stream via Firewire, it usually screws up really bad, if capturing at all.

Exactly what I'm referring to. I just wish FCPX could have better capture preferences for tape-based media and ways to manipulate how it handles timecode breaks.

Have you done this with FCPX?

Tom, yes, as Greg says, the dubbing feature of many consumer cameras (I use a Canon HV30 or the small Sony HDV deck) works fine with FCP X. I had more issues with the legacy FCP.

I've tried recording from non-TC devices, DVD players, etc. It is a nightmare. I just got that deal from Roxio and capture with it. Not the best quality, but hey, what can you do?

I use the Canopus ADVC 300 that Tom mentions above and it works perfectly. You can also make proc adjustments with it on the incoming signal. It includes a line TBC that helps a bit in restoring bad control tracks on your tape. It's now been bought out by Grass Valley but you can still find the original Canopus version online.