PAL HV30 downconversion question

[Kit Laughlin]

Hello all; first post here. I did a search on this subject, but could not find anything—please excuse me if this sounds like a silly question—it probably is.

I use a Panasonic GY-500 mini-DV camera with a Canon broadcast wide zoom for making standard def. (SD) DVD-5s/DVD-9s. I edit the footage in Final Cut Pro 6, via a Sony DSR-11 deck.

I bought an HV30 today, though, to have something more portable. For the present workflow, I intend to record in HDV, but to downconvert to SD DV on the fly, so that I can record straight into the FCP timeline (using 'Capture Now), simply for speed for the particular job I have in mind.

My question is: if I follow this workflow, can I select standard 4:3 format for the output DV, or will it be letterboxed widescreen standard def. DV, so a letterboxed faux 16:9?

I would prefer (if possible) to have the DV in 4:3 ratio, but at the full picture height (top to bottom of the frame as shot), so rather lose the left and right edges. Is this possible?

If not, can the camera be set up to record standard def. at 4:3?

Cheers, KL

[Kit Laughlin]

I will try this as soon as I can, but if anyone here knows the answer, please advise! TIA, kl

[Lunchbox]

Search the forum, menu, manual under "DV Locked"

[Lunchbox]

Down convert will not modify the aspect ratio for you.