Thanks to all who have contributed so far -

That was the reason for asking about USB2 v Firewire on a Mini DV Camcorder - as USB2 is supposed to be 480 mbps as opposed to Firewire 400 mbps.
But if u say Firewire is the thing - then that will do me !, and unless I hear something to the contrary - the Canon XM2 will suffice as the semi pro Mini DV.
I will check the sites u list to find out which card/software to complement it.

Thanks again

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Thanks for helping

Pentium 4, 2 x 3.2 Xeons, 2 gb ECC registered, 1 scsi 36 GB, 2 x 250 Gb IDE, Matrox RT X100 xtreme pro, win xp pro. (Poweroid 9220) Canon XM2 Mini DV Camcorder