Digitizing on to comp from VCR?

[markjones05]

Does anyone know how I would go about connecting a VCR up to my mac in order to digitize footage for editing in FCP3? Do I need a special type of VCR or can I use any one? Do I require a special card or wire? I don't know any specifics of how to do this all I know is that it can be done. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[celaurie]

Um... with a cable!?

[hugemullens]

Do you have a DV Camcorder?? If you do they often have pass throughs to hook up the Composite cable from the VCR to the camcorder, and then the camcorder outputs the digital signal via firewire. If its just a one time deal just use your camcorder or find a friend with one. If you doing a lot you can use a specialized analog to digital converter. I have the canopus ADVC 100 and find it does a great job. Its a fairly easy thing to do. And the composite cable wont cost but 20 bucks if you dont have one already. And no special VCR is needed, but the better quality you have the better the results.

[celaurie]

Just kidding. From what I understand you'd need something like this (http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/PC-TV_video.html).

Chris, part time smart-ass