ADS Pyro Link Model Differences

[RocketPhoto]

I've seen several models (-550, -557, -558, etc.) advertised. Does anyone know the differences? Are any not compatible with PE 3? Thanks!

[Paul LS]

They are all compatible with PE3. I am not sure of the differences if any between models... it may have more to do if they come with PE packaged in the bundle and what version of PE.

[Chuck Engels]

The differences are mostly what software comes with the unit and the firmware installed, not much of a difference at all really.

[Chuck Engels]

Here's a good deal from Amazon, one of the best prices these days
http://astore.amazon.com/chuckengelsco- ... B000OOS036

[RocketPhoto]

Thank you for all the responses!

I've heard some brief mention of a Canopus converter. Any thoughts on that one?

[Chuck Engels]

If you have the extra money then go for the 300, it is definitely a step above the Pyro.
Amazon is having a sale
http://astore.amazon.com/chuckengelsco- ... s&preview=

[RocketPhoto]

That Canopus 300 is quite the unit! And it's considered high-end amateur level? Am I correct in thinking it's main feature is the built-in Time Base Correction?

And in talking about another Canopus model, the 110, what is its main feature? The audio lock/unlock? Taking this train of thought one step further, the 55 is probably the basic converter model without the audio synch and TBC?

Having asked about all that, how would you compare the Canopus products to the ADS Tech Pyro Links? I am interested in both now, but am not sure how to narrow the field, so to speak. Is Canopus the "Cadillac" version of these converters, but comes with the corresponding price tag?

[Chuck Engels]

Is Canopus the "Cadillac" version of these converters, but comes with the corresponding price tag?

That's pretty much the case I suppose. The 300 has built in TBC and most units have the audio lock, so does the Pyro.
The TBC is a great addition if you have older tapes, but a good Video Cassette Player can do alot to help also.

The Pyro has always worked for me but I never tried a Canopus converter either, mainly because of the price tag at the time I purchased.
Also, I was needing one that same day and the local Circuit City had them in stock.

My first unit did not work and I had to return it to ADS for replacement, which they did within 10 days. There have been a few other members that had to return their Pyro for repair/replacement, one is waiting to hear from ADS right now because of a problem. I have not heard of any similar issues with Canopus converters, so maybe a better unit all the way around. ADS tech support has always been good when I needed them, it's just too bad that they are needed so frequently it seems sometimes.

If you can get the 300 I would recommend it, if you are looking at the 110 there might not be much difference between that and the Pyro.
Maybe someone will speak up about how much they love their Canopus 300 and why you should get one, or not.

[nkummer]

I have the Canopus 110, and I don’t have the Pyro, but from what I read on this group (and mainly Chuck), they seem to work pretty much the same. I have no problems with it and it just works. Plug in the analog at one end and out pops the digital video at the other. The 110 also goes the other way, so I can always display my video on the TV as well. I believe that it the main difference between the 55 and the 110.

I have never had any problems capturing with PE. I bought it to capture from my Hi8 analog camcorder, and for that it worked just great. I have only used it a little for capturing from the VCR, and I haven’t had any problems there.

Some one else will have to speak to the 300.
Norm

[RocketPhoto]

Thanks, Norm. I'm very interested in either a Pyro or Canopus. But first I have to get FireWire capability on my computer. Hopefully that won't be complicated.

Greg

[Bobby]

...Hopefully that won't be complicated...

Shouldn't be - just be sure you get the right type of card for an available blank slot in your PC.

And be sure to buzz us here if you have any problems.