Skype does not recognize Firewire Camcorder On-Board Microphone, but iChat does

[mustang_dvs]

I'm attempting to use a Canon Optura 300 MiniDV camcorder as a webcam for Skype on a current-generation Intel Mac Mini, running Mac OS X 10.5.6 Server with the latest release of Skype.

Connected via Firewire (1394a 6 to 4 pin) Skype recognizes the camera without any problems and the image is crystal clear, but it does not recognize the camera's built-in microphone as a sound input option. Testing with iChat, Apple's software does recognize the on-camera mic as sound input (and passes-through fine), but it never actually appears as an input option in the System Preferences' Audio panel, which I think is the root of Skype's problem.

The Optura, with a wide-angle lens attached, gives us a wider field of view than our external iSight, making it more useful for showing off our newborn, from the comfort of our living room (without having to huddle around the MBP), to friends and family currently far afield. (Plus, since the Mini in question is our media server, we can Skype via our HDTV.)

Does anyone know of a (software) work-around? As far as I can tell, Soundflower isn't an option, as iChat hijacks the video feed.

Thanks!

 

[harry454]

does the camera have a external mic output? You may need a mic out cable to plug in to the macs mic port

 

[niccodeamus]

i have a similar setup (different camera), same problem. I noticed in the skype developer forums that they claim to have fixed this in the 2.8 beta. not so for me, still doesnt work. i read somewhere that it might work if you also plug in the usb cable. i havent tried this yet