CANOPUS ADVC-50 Advanced Digital Video Converter ( Windows / Mac )

Rating:
Summary: Superior to Dazzle DV Bridge
Review: I own a ADVC-100, which is a similar product to the ADVC-50 but with more features. The quality of captured analog video with the ADVC is better than another popular analog capture product, the Hollywood DV Bridge. I own one of these as well, so I speak from experience. The latter is adequate, but just adequate for importing analog video to Adobe Premiere. The ADVC does so much better, with audio locked to video so that the two don't lose synchronization over the course of long captures (which sometimes happens with my DV Bridge). In addition, the ADVC box is simple and cable connections are snug and preserve the integrity of the connection. My DV Bridge, on the other hand, has a cool looking (arguably) but less functional design. It falls over when cables are plugged into it, and the S-video cable fits only loosely unless I wrap scotch tape around the unit and the S-video plug. The ADVC also has an on/off switch whereas the DV Bridge does not. The latter's power supply must be plugged and unplugged from the power supply with each use. If you're looking for a product for capturing analog video, I have no hesitation about recommending the ADVC ... and especially to those considering the DV Bridge. The ADVC is superior in every way, and considerably less expensive. For a few more features than available on the ADVC-50, you might also want to consider the ADVC-100. I'm happy with mine.

Rating:
Summary: WARNING to mac G5 owners! incompatiblity!
Review: warning! trying to use this as a pci card will NOT work with a G5, even though this is listed as mac compatible. It is the WRONG type of PCI card, and further, the G5 will not allow you to add a 5.25 front...so you're stuck if you have a G5.
I found out the hard way, and going through amazon's return process means I have to pay postage since they say its not their fault, EVEN THOUGH their listing here is misleading to G5 owners, hence my low review, and the reason for posting this WARNING!
DO NOT BUY if you own a G5, not only will it not work, amazon will soak you for return postage.