Canon vs. Panasonic miniDV

[chuchichan2524]

I'm researching a miniDV camcorder to purchase now and was wondering if there is a significant difference between how Canons or Panasonics work with Apple. I have an Apple Powerbook g4 and would like to use the camcorder for videochat. Does one work better than the other?

 

[sebisworld]

I would say that all Camcorders equipped with Firewire should work with a Mac. I have a Canon camera and it works flawlessly.
Whatever you do, don't get a Sony though. Not because they don't work well, just because we have to teach them a lesson.

 

[Chip NoVaMac]

Can't say much about Panasonic, but the Canon's allow their firewire ports to be both in and out. Many others only allow the firewire for output.

 

[itmakesmecool]

I have a Cannon ZR85 and it works flawlessly with my powerbook. One recommendation would be to buy an extra battery for whatever camera you get, they power runs out quick if you have the screen on.

 

[Monyx]

In the early days (circa 2000) Panasonic and to a lesser degree Canon had firewire issues with FCP. I started on OS9 FCP1.0 so much has changed since then ;-)
Sony was the safe bet for problem-free firewire device control in FCP not only prosumer but consumer.
As an event-video specialist the low-light Sony's were preferred for my work
and cosumer Sony MiniDV cameras will play back the DVCAM recordings.

Never had a problem with: Sony PD-170P, VX2000E, TRV900E, TRV-18E, TRV-120E (all PAL models)