Using a DV camera as a deck

[kk5hy]

Hi,
I have a Sony HDR-FX1 that I have been shooting stock video clips. I've been reading that using the camera to also download the video to the computer or just use it to play back is un-needed wear and tear on the cameras transport mechanism.

They suggest buying a cheap DV camera to use just as a tape deck for downloading to the computer. Can this be done?
My FX1 uses minidv tapes, if I get a cheap camera that also uses minidv tapes and has a firewire port, can I play back the video and download to my computer?
Does the cheaper camera have to be a HD camera to just play back?
Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Jake

 

[Jim Carswell]

I may be getting old...but I can't read your post. That blue font makes it impossible to read.
Jim

 

[HorseFilms]

If you're shooting HDV, you need an HDV camera to capture. I'd look for a cheaper Sony HDV cam.

 

[EDIT-XTREEM]

If you're shooting HDV, you need an HDV camera to capture. I'd look for a cheaper Sony HDV cam.

Would a HV20 work as well? I've seen them going pretty cheap recently.