Mini DV Camcorder Video Quality on PC: Why is the quality so poor when I upload it to my PC?

Question by Cleareyes: Mini DV Camcorder Video Quality on PC: Why is the quality so poor when I upload it to my PC?
I have a Sony DCR-HC96 Camcorder. I don’t have firewire on my PC but this camcorder allows uploads via USB.

Is there any difference in video quality between USB and Firewire?

I’m using the software that came with the Camcorder (Picture Package).

How can I get better quality video?

I’m looking to make a little movie and transfer it to DVD with pics combined with video and background music.

Thanks for your input…

Best answer:

Answer by iridflare
The video you transfer via USB is highly compressed – it’s not intended to be used for video capture. Firewire is used for transferring the raw video and gives much higher quality. Since your PC hasn’t already got one you’ll need to install a firewire card. They’re cheap, easy to install and readily available. You’ll also need a firewire cable.

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