Converting from .Mod and creating iMovies

[jfbrackin]

I'm very new to the video and mac world, so please - tread lightly on me! I've spent the better part of 2 days playing around with how to transfer files from a Canon camcorder with a SD Flash Drive and end up with a good looking product on DVD while using iMovie and iDVD. Here is what I have tried and been unhappy with. I have downloaded and purchased the appropriate plug-ins (?) for MPEG Streamclip. When I convert a .mod file to .dv file - iMovie doesn't immediately recognize the file and thus you have to manually import each file...major pain. When I convert to a .avi file and place it in my iPhoto library - iMovie picks it up and allows me to make adjustments without importing...very nice. BUT, when I create a .avi file and use the default settings - I seem to lose significant quality. The video is very jumpy when burned to DVD and played on TV. If I move the quality scale up to 100%, my files are ENORMOUS. This solves the quality issue, but it is not a realistic long term solution because of the file sizes. Does anyone have any suggestions for settings that maintain the original file quality? When I play the files directly from my camcorder onto the TV - they look just fine and the .mod files are very tolerable in size. Sorry to be so long winded, but I'm trying to supply enough info because there appears to be some VERY qualified people here. Thanks so much for your help!!!

[VirtualDoobMon]

Starting with Imovie 08 i believe you can import MOD's directly from the camcorder.

Check here for more info:
http://forums.macosxhints.com/showthread.php?t=77489

[JimmyS]

A MOD file is usually MPEG2 video wrapped in a MOD container. If you are still having trouble getting them into iMovie or iDVD, you can copy the videos contents into an MPG container using AviDemux (Mac version available). Open your MOD video. Set Video and Audio to Copy. Set Format to MPEG video. Then Save. Everything will be direct stream copied into the new container. No conversion will take place and original quality will be preserved.