Sony HDR-HC1 and Apple iMovie

[AdrianL]

This video camera uses HD tape and plays back beautifully on my wide screen TV. the latest update of iMovie just does not cut it.  Sometimes the camera is recognized, sometimes not, despite using iLink cable (firewire) from computer to camera, the program hangs up, etc.
Can anyone recommend a program ( I also use Windows xp prof. on a PC) that would allow me to copy the movie from camera to (PC or MAC), edit, add music, transitions, and copy back to a blank tape on camera, or burn to a DVD that can play back on my TV?
Thanks for your help.

[AdrianL]

Additional info:
I am using a 17 in MacBook Pro (Intel) with 2GB Ram.

[pss]

the 2gb ram might be an issue....working with HD video (especially in realtime) is pretty hardware intensive...cpu, ram, harddrives...it all better be fast....working on a mac you have 3 great options...imovie (free), FinalCut Express (amazing does almost everything for 300?) and of course FCP, which is the market leader....the suite (for 1000+) has everything....

[markhout]

Your setup should be fine, I'm working with iMovie HD and the Sony HC1 on a PowerMac G4 2x1.42Ghz and 2GB on board. Importaing does not always work in 100% realtime, but that should not be a problem.

Make sure that you have plenty space on your disk, try trashing the iMovie preferences and repair permissions and see how that goes. Don't run any other programs while you're importing. Ideally, set up another user account on your mac that you only use for iMovie work.

Quality advice can be had from the Apple.com support forum too.

Mark