Import Mini DV, HDV or DVCAM Tapes to an Apple Computer

[@dulceb1100]

You solved a problem, the "professionals" at the Mac store couldn't. I took my Handicam in with me, and they looked lost. Thank You. All my memories are stored on DV, and they include times and people that are gone now.

[@boxtheben1742]

yes haha

[@DoubleMonoLR]

Yikes, that's not great support from the store, particularly when Apple pushed firewire for a long time.

[@brendonb5054]

@@DoubleMonoLR Firewire has been dead for 10 years since Thunderbolt 2, TB3 and now USB-C and TB4 ... and it's not an 'Apple' technology - it's set by multiple stakeholders and changes rapidly ... but hopefully we're near an end game with the USB-C form factor

[@trudikeck7102]

After trying several different ways o import mini DV into my iMac, this really worked. The program allows you one free tape to try. Finally! Thank you!!!!

[@KubikCv]

Perfect video, so I can buy macMini and connect it to my old Canon HV-30

[@surfstyk]

Perfect how to video! Just dusted off my old DV Cam and will try this soon. cheers

[@paulfreeman460]

This was exactly what I needed. One tape transferred; lots more to do.

[@key2adventure]

I have done this on my old iMac with firewire port using both iMovie and later FCPX, and have had no issues digitizing more than a hundred tapes from various expeditions in the Himalayas. I don't see any reason to use 3rd party software. Files are named after tape, and every scene brake is recognised and a new clip results in a new file increasing a counter in the file name. Very ease to work with, just takes the time it takes to run through the whole tape. It took me some weeks to digitise all those 100+ tapes, but now they are on my harddrive - and backed up 🙂

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

I tried both of those programs and every time there was a break in the tape, it would fail to digitize the rest of the tape. This was the only software that I found that could deal with the breaks. It saved me a ton of time. That’s awesome that you didn’t have those issues!

[@cesrperez]

Great tutorial I just wish it didn’t cost 99 dollars

[@EarlBalentine]

Is there another app that is free? I can't afford $99

[@fletzyproductions1190]

@@EarlBalentineimovie

[@fletzyproductions1190]

@@EarlBalentinebut quicktime works great if you dont edit in imovie

[@IndieVisualUK]

Life saver! Thank you so much for this video. Have a Sony HVR-Z1E camcorder but currently no way of transferring files (unless I pay a ton for a company to digitise it)...until now! Thanks again.

[@jasonhitch660]

I’ll try it. Thanks. I’ll keep you updated.

[@snowbrasil]

Hi all, Finally, after chasing a used camera (mine broke), finding my dv cable and connecting 3 adapters, I can finally capture to my MacBook Pro. I was very happy to see Super Cut immediately recognizing the camera with both video and audio. Is there anything I need to do to get the best import quality? Should I be using a different software? Are there easy solutions for upscaling the video and/or improving quality? I appreciate your help.

[@antoniodbo]

Where did you find the Firewire to Thunderbolt connector? Can’t find anywhere now

[@fotox_ayala]

dude this is such an updated way of importing now. Thanks for the info!

[@nikitasidorkov2]

Лучший!! Долго мучайся с этим вопросом , благодарю 🙏

[@ceezsees3471]

Fantastic instructions, really helpful. Any idea how to get the time/date stamp on the video footage like to older Hi8 or even 8mm camcorders did? you know when it would show the time/date status,p in the bottom corner whilst the video would be playing.

[@MegaFuntoosh]

Thanks for the video, I followed this and it works great. Only question I hope you can answer is why does QuickTime stop recording at 7 mins when the tape is still playing

[@MrPennypoo]

Best up to date tutorial thank you so much

[@CarolinvonPetzholdt]

Very helpful. I like and subscribe.

[@p00pie]

awesome video and very clear tutorial ❤️

[@vegsource]

Thanks for this video! Does Liteflix save each shot individually? It will detect each scene and make a new file while capturing?

[@vegsource]

Also, do you like liteflix better than using Capture in Premiere Pro?

[@tyronefrancis2307]

Is it possible to transfer using DV out to USB cable then into USB C using an adapter? I'm wondering if best to avoid all the wires?

[@jhonluna1415]

Did it worked for you?

[@fredo_jacob]

Just what I needed :)

[@deswalk]

Very helpful and the most useful video I found thanks

[@teodenchgarcia6427]

Anyone know if you can use a DV to USB cable? Instead of needing the adaptors

[@timchamberlain9133]

Thank you v much - this is an awesome video with great recommendations

[@jerryryberg1454]

I have the same Sony that you do, but I've got a late 2015 MacBook Pro, and it has only USB and HDMI inputs. And I don't seem to be able to use iMovie with the Sony. I used my old MBP with it. Maybe my best bet is to try to use the old MBP. Because my old Sony worked fine with it.

[@dipp1102]

your voice is relaxing

[@thomasfokas]

I have been looking for a rental service or transfer service for like 10 years with no luck… even in San Francisco

[@Yoncena]

To do this on a new Mac with usb-c you would need to buy two cable connecters which are the firewire- thunderbolt and then thunderbolt to USB-C which I will link below. Thats all you need! Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter

[@Adrelanine]

Hey, you mean + the mini-dv to firewire adapter? I have iOS 10.13.6 and can't derush my Canon MV700

[@sb5673]

Ummm Apple says it does not work in 2 connection combined. I checked today

[@RobHollander]

Hi. Not sure if anyone has tried this on the MacBook M1s yet but I'm having trouble getting Final Cut Pro X or iMovie or Quicktime to recognize my MiniDV camera (Sony Handycam HDR-HC3). I have a Belkin DV/iLink to Firewire 800 cable running into the Apple Firewire 800 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter and then into the Apple Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 adapter into the USB-C port on the MacBook but the computer doesn't see the camera. (It used to on my old iMac 2014.) I also have tried another DV to FW800 to make sure it wasn't a bad Belkin cable. Wondering if you might have any thoughts?

[@cam4001]

Doesn’t work on new macs you better use OBS instead

[@user-cr7lx5hi6m]

Amazon does not carry this adapter. any suggestions? Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter

[@workinprogress6697]

Hi, I am using Mac OS Ventura 13.6. with IEEE 1394/DV to USB 2 cable. Nothing seems to recognise my Canon MV530i. I have tried iMovie, and Debut software and even FCP. How can I bypass the fact that my camcorder is not supported. Is it the cable that's wrong? Any help would be so welcome...

[@larrythedove]

Great !!! If it works I will be over the moon.

[@gatesbisson1746]

very informative thank you

[@eelsloan]

Question! I have acquired an old Sony HDR-FX1 HDV Camcorder. I would love to use it to shoot a few short films. I have a late 2019 iMac. I am seeing so much different information on what I need in order to get the tape footage in HD to my Final Cut Pro X Software. If I am understanding correctly, I would need an IEEE 1394 FireWire cable, then adapt that into FireWire to Thunderbolt 2, then that into Thunderbolt 3, and finally into the computer? I saw something that confused me about needing a FireWire 800 to 400 (or the other way around) as well. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Excellent video! Liked and subscribed.

[@bigwick123]

You might've solved this already, but you can get a single cable with 4 pin (mini) FireWire 400 on one end (for the camera), and FireWire 800 on the other. The 800 end goes into the apple FireWire adapter, which then goes into the thunderbolt 2 adapter. Only issue is the Apple FireWire adapters are discontinued and expensive now.

[@barrykrohn8724]

Thank you, I got the links. Is there an adapter to get it to an HDMI input on my TV. Thanks again.

[@shaymine11even]

Thanks, when I get a computer I’ll do it.

[@brownekevable]

I have 30 full tapes, should I do one at a time and edit or import all into an external hard drive and edit as I go along, thanks for the clear information

[@feezy9]

Thanks for the video! Do you know how/if this camera can be used as a webcam?

[@kokosz2]

Great video!! The Lifeflix is great. Now I need a video to how to burn my iMovie into my dvds. Do I need another program? On my old Mac I had iDVD and toast that I used before. Now I had to get a external cd drive. Thanks for the help

[@abdulladha]

Hi, I have arranged the identical setup and cannot get the software to recognize the HDR1 camera? Can you please help?

[@ybblue2732]

I got the extra adapter for usb c for my new MacBook but the computer does not recognize the camera. My old Mac did with the single adapter. Not sure what is going on?

[@thepish5575]

Thanks this video it is very helpful! I have the Lifeflix software and my camera imports the images into my MacBook Air but not the audio, do you know if there is something I can do to fix that issue?

[@samharvey7164]

Thanks, I "subscrubed".

[@jwfm.global]

hey man, great video! Is it also possible to import the footage through the mini usb outlet on the camera?

[@barrykrohn8724]

WOW ! I thought it could not be done. But then I went about it all wrong. NOW only thing I need are the links to get the proper cables and jacks. I didn't. see any links. Sad.

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

Links are in the description below the video.

[@hermesverhaegen]

what if you use third part adaptors? The apple ones are soo expensive!

[@dadders6]

Unfortunately, any 'modern' Mac DOESN'T HAVE the firewire connection.

[@MrDazFlash]

Great step by step video, I got a FireWire type 2 4pin(miniDV) to thunderbolt 2 awhile ago seemed to work. But after reading some comments I wonder if I’m losing quality? I’m back doing research for my mum with a new Mac need to thunderbolt 3(usb c) solution. Thinking thunderbolt 2 to thunderbolt 3(usb c) adaptor is best solution. But I’m still wondering if I’m losing quality?!

[@TechHowden]

It’s all just digital so you shouldn’t lose any quality no matter what adapters you use

[@user-mc6lo1rg9l]

What if my cam corder doesn't have the DV connection? It is an older model

[@varbergsforeningsservice3581]

So you can´t use a fire wire to usb?

[@mosabekheet4237]

I am trying to search for the adapter that connects Firewire port to Thuderbolt .. Can any one please tell me how to find it?

[@gascoyneone]

LifeFlix doesn't recognise Sony HDV Z1U camcorders sadly.

[@fantasticdan9534]

Instead of all the adapters, couldn’t you just use FireWire to usb?

[@tadjani5191]

Still confused...I have a Canon ZR70 NTSC mini dv camcorder with no firewire. I want to transfer the footage from the mini dv tape to my Mac. What do I need? Thanks!

[@AllenFreemanMediaGuru]

Yes! “SHOE me!”

[@mysadchet]

Thank you for the video, but i have a problem. I am using 18's macbook , and OS is Catalina. I use Canon's 6mm camcorder, and I have all the cables. But MacBooks don't recognize camcorders. I confirmed that there was no problem with the output of the camcorder. If you know how to solve this problem, please help me. Your video was very helpful even if my problem was not solved. 🥺

[@mysadchet]

oh my mac os is Monterey😅

[@artullar.746]

Hi ! I have the same camera and cords yet nothing is syncing up. Could you please show me your settings for your camera.

[@blackvulcan3]

Do you need a MAC compatible camcorder or can this be used with any? I have a JVC miniDV but the model number is not compatible so whilst the camcorder connects it doesn’t capture the footage on iMovie.

[@ObsidianXXX]

Is there an adapter that goes from the firewire cable to USB-C or does it always have to be two adapters? Thanks

[@slumpedshrek3330]

I couldn’t find one

[@julieviss1946]

what cables do i need for a 2015 (late model) iMac ? Do i need both the thunderbolt firewire adaptor and the thunderbolt 2 to 3? thanks in advance

[@emilyparrilla6819]

does the charger have to be charger or will it still play connected to the computer?

[@valeriablasini4098]

Hi I have a SONY DCR -HC32/HC42 The cable that connects to the DV outlet of the camera has on the other side 3 pins and I dont know which connector I need to conect to a new MAC and tranfer video or to a HD. Could you please tell me. Thank you

[@olehansen_Norway]

Hi. I wonder will it work if the source tape is recorded on a cam with 44.1 Hz audio (Canon) and the deck for playback and transfer is a DV CAM (Sony PD100) which has 48 hz audio (I do no longer have that Canon camera).... I notice as I play back the DV tape recorded on the Canon from the Sony the audio goes on and off but the picture plays well....... Wonder if the capure program will take care of this audio issue during import?

[@tonymeitw]

Does this work with a JVC mini DV? I’ve got one that’s 18 years old.

[@ginrummy5394]

would this work also for a sony dcr dvd camcorder that takes dvd+rw

[@bybreno23]

Will this work for Sony vx2000?

[@juanazpiri5002]

bro. i have a pc with firewire 400. would this work with a cable that goes dv from the camera to firewire 400 to the pc?

[@valeriablasini4098]

I ALSO HAV E A SONY DSC F707 CYBERSHOT CAN YOU TELL ME WHICH CONNECTORS ARE NECESSARY.

[@pabsgabs]

Does this still work with fcpx? It’s not working on my M1 Max, but works on my 2012 mbp.

[@gilad3121]

what cable i need to normal computer (not apple mac)?

[@janinebiello7944]

Hi! I watched your video among others and followed your directions and bought all 3 wires needed and downloaded the program. when i connect it it does not appear and says no camera found . i'm so so frustrated!!! can you PLEASE help me!!! not very comp savvey either

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

This exact procedure worked for me and many others. I would contact the software developer. They may have an answer.

[@leducjoeyt]

If your Mini DV camera/camcorder is too old it may not be compatible with Mac OSX. "Love What You Do" or others in this discussion may be able to point you to a web page that provides a list of Mini DV camcorders or even playback decks that are compatible with Mac OSX. I have a camera that my vintage iMac DV computer running OS 9.2.2 "sees & communicates with" but my MacBook Pro running OSX does not see it, i.e. no camera found. This is with iMovie on each computer, not the great "LIfe Flix" program "Love What You Do" recommends.

[@naimthomas8721]

Hey everything was working but it froze on my MacBook and only got some of the tape. Now I tried to restart and the software keeps say “no camcorder found” and I’ve unplugged everything even deleted and re- downloaded the software and the same. Any help?

[@stevenpickering3556]

I have the same camera as on the video. What settings do you need to apply for the iMac to recognise it ??

[@joyramirez178]

I have the same camera and problem as well

[@kileyhoward2330]

You’ll need the mentioned software to trick your Mac. They are fickle.

[@lewis8953]

does it work with the new apple macbook pro

[@malatesta2001]

Thanks!! Gracias!!

[@moisescano3028]

Does the free trial works or ill have to buy the pro version wich is $99 dollars?

[@lifeflix.videos]

Free trial works for one tape

[@Mattatron-kx1qn]

So I tried it and saved a file but there’s no sound is there any way around that?

[@samanthadashiel]

Could I use Premiere Pro to capture instead of the LifeFlix DV Importer software?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

Premiere pro stops on all the tape breaks. I could not get it to digitize an entire tape. Even with a capture card.

[@05mikey]

does this work for mini dvds or just cassettes

[@chinart]

How long does it take to transfer? Does it have to play the whole vide in real time to transfer? That’s like an 1hr per tape?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

It digitizes in real time.

[@abunassir70]

Hi...I have a Sony Micro MV camcorder (Handycam IP model number: DCR-IP210E). I have all the connections done to my MacBook Pro (firewire cable with 4 pin to 9 pin adapter). However, the computer doesn't seem to be able to detect my camera. I have tried to do import media from i Movie, but the camera is not detected. Any idea what is the problem?

[@callumjones9951]

i have this as well nothing can detect it I think some cameras just dont work maybe try the casstte in another camera?

[@MJudah-px8xe]

Is it possible to use use a dv-dvi cable to make the transfer?

[@TechHowden]

That Cable doesn’t exist

[@wadadlisouljahwadadlisoulj6533]

Struggling to find a Sony HDV mini Dv Cam any alternative or suggestions?

[@jerryryberg1454]

I got a Sony HDR-HC1 "used" from eBay, but it looks brand new. Trouble is, all the markings on it or in Japanese. Good thing I've got my old one which doesn't work to look at, plus I've got the old manual.

[@saffy9267]

My Sony handycam doesn’t have a DV input

[@janloopuijt8590]

Hi, Thanks for the very clear video. I connected my handycam to my new Imac as mentioned in the video. Unfortunately the program LifeFlix DV Importer does not find my Handycam. What should I do? Thanks for any sugestions, regards, Jan

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

As long as my camera was turned on, all the cables were connected and I inserted a tape, the program saw my camera. It was just automatic. I would contact them directly for technical support. They probably could tell you if you explain the gear you are using. I never had an issue and found that program very easy to use.

[@jancetackett6299]

The program actually did not support catalina until a few days ago, it should work now

[@sb5673]

Are u sure that two adapters connection, thunderbolt3-thunderbolt2 to firewire, would work ? I checked it does not work from Apple.

[@mauricemankarious376]

I read that you need to download the camera driver onto your computer, for no it to be recognized.

[@99kroner]

I saw your video and there it was... you said this mac OS software will capture over analog time code breaks (the snowstorm in between takes). YEEESSS!!! No more babysitting the capture process. I bought it and tried it but DISAPPOINTMENT!!! LifeFlix stops in the very first snowstorm... I hope this is an error 40 and you can tell me what I do wrong. LifeFlix support has no clue. My hardware setup: video 8 cam / advc-300 digitizer / iMac with firewire 800 / cable firewire 800 to firewire 4 pin (I also use final cut pro (professional???) but you can't turn of the splitting and stopping as you know) ps. I also use Canopus DV Capture (stand alone stone age PC-only-software) which cannot split captures but I am so tired of starting my old pc getting deaf from the noise and blinded by all those windows blue screens)! But it sure does what I want... one file with all the snowstorms which I clean up myself afterwards!

[@99kroner]

I found the solution myself...I Instead of converting the analog signal from the V8 camcorder through my Canopus ADVC-300 hardware which caused LifeFlix to stop at time breaks i routed the analog signal through my Sony mini DV Camcorder (DSR-PDX10P) and voila! no more stopping. I thought I'd let you know in case you get asked again...

[@elisazouza]

thankyouuu

[@reneperezz]

Is it basically the same for mini dvds?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

I have not tested that, so I am not 100 percent sure.

[@raghad-bj3ig]

my old camera wont work but i still have alot of tapes i wanna watch but idk how to import them without the camera:(any idea how?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

Buy a camera. Rent a deck. Or send them to an online service. Google it.

[@kiplonczak]

i would recommend go on craigslist/Letgo and buy an old DV camera for probably $10-20

[@WaynesWorldStudioVancouver]

To be clarify: UsbC is not thunderbolt 3, UsbC share the same design as Thunderbolt 3. Thunderbolt 3 carry double the date rate than UsbC even though they share the same design. You must get the Thunderbolt 3 cable in order to use in any thunderbolt 3 port or hubs that is design for TB3.

[@DoubleMonoLR]

While you're right that Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C aren't just different names for the same thing, the remaining info is a bit misleading. USB-C is basically just the connector/wiring, which supports multiple standards - including, on some devices/cables, Thunderbolt 3. Other formats used with USB-C are USB2/3/4 signals, hdmi, displayport, and even analog audio in some cases. I think you're confusing USB-C with USB3. To achieve maximum speed using thunderbolt 3, you also need to use very short cables, or active(power/chips are used to boost the signal) cables though. USB4 is apparently based on thunderbolt 3, and naturally is just as fast. USB4 seemingly requires power delivery for a device to be compatible, which presumably ensure the ability to operate at maximum speed. USB3 & Thunderbolt 3, and newer, are both way past the maximum speed of the firewire connection in the video though.

[@pip1684]

is audio also transeffered if you use this method?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

Yes.

[@patrickwallen6363]

does anyone know if permiere pauses the video importing when it splits or breaks clips?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

It does. I gave up on it. Had to use the other program I mentioned in the video.

[@OVRXP0SED]

will this work if i use a fire wire to usb cord with no adapters? or should i use the thunderbold adapter

[@Toum1326]

id like to know this too

[@antonyavorsky885]

No it won't work.

[@itmuk]

Can I use a FireWire to usb and have the usb plugged into my MacBook?

[@wisslef7685]

i wonder if i can do that too

[@ddelac123]

@@wisslef7685 hello to answer both of you no this set up he mentioned is the only way to do it. The firewire cable cannot Passover data in just one cable. You need all these adapters. I tried and tested myself and it works like a charm highly recommend his set up as it provides excellant quality video.

[@톰_7]

Is there a way to do it with Windows?

[@azeenzare7773]

Or DV to USB???

[@ddelac123]

There's no way a dv can passover the data to a USB in one cable. The bandwidth will not allow it so the only way to do it is the adapters he mentioned. It is a bit pricey but it still is the absolute best way to do it. Those crappy av cable USB adapters are awful. Using this setup gives you the best quality and audio and less headaches transferring. Trust me I used it myself and it works like a charm.

[@Anonymous-um3im]

Is their another software I could use other than lifeflix ?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

I like it the best because it keeps digitizing, even when it hits breaks in the the tape.

[@jonpaulseahsunshine4743]

May I ask if I have an exisiting Late 2009 iMac with a Firewire port. Would that be enough just to have the first connector and be done with it? Will the software work on Mac Os El Capitan?

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

I believe that is correct.

[@ChocolateMediaFilm]

Did you ever try using Final Cut Pro X to import? Does it stop if there is a drop out?

[@samanthadashiel]

Would this work on an M1 Macbook pro?

[@TechHowden]

Yes

[@johnnyretro1975]

im trying to convert my dv tapes im using imovie but it only downloads clips is this better than imovie

[@LoveWhatYouDo]

In my opinion, if you are trying to turn tapes into video files, this is the way to go.

[@enzoespin]

Johnny RETRO imovie won’t capture sound for me so this is better imo