Thanks.  Ok..last question (I think)

If I work in a 23.98 timeline (SD or HD).

I will output image seq. for color correct.

Then to 1080i master. 

How about mix prep?   I will need to output quicktimes and omfs for the audio engineer.

This is new territory for me.  What steps should I take for mix elements from a 23.98 timeline

that will eventually layback to a 1080i master?

Thanks

You can make 23.98 or 60i Quicktimes for them. No speed changes anywhere. With 23.98 QT's they will have the most accurate reference.

As for HD decks: keep in mind that those can be rented.

I'm also not too fond of purchasing an HD-SR, that I will likely use 4 or 5 days per year.

Thank you again.

So I'll just give engineer a 23.98 Quicktime

He'll mix at 23.98

Output an aif full mix

and no problem with layback to 1080i tape?

Sounds good.

And yes, I think I can convince the handful of clients for which I would output a master

that for HD broadcast and/or Web delivery we will be well served with HDcam.

Thanks