First, let me say, I'm an XDCAM idiot. Never worked with it before.  Been searching the forums for info on how to use it with Xpro, but most of the threads point to dead tech note links or are discussing HD. I'm just trying to find out if it's possible to use it with my 4.8.4 system. I'm considering hiring a DP who shoots on an PDW 530 that can record DVCAM or MPEG/IMX at 30, 40, or 50 mbps. Questions:

1) Which of these format can be used on my system (well, I know DVCAM can be, but not sure about the IMX options).

2) How do I get this stuff into the system? I assume I'll need to get my hands on an XDCAM camera or deck? Is it realtime fw capture normally? Or can the footage just be imported?

3) If I decide to shoot DVCAM, would I just save myself some hassle by having the disc footage bumped to tape at my local post house?

I don't think 'Pro supported MXF files until 5.5.x...

Upgrade your software. I think xdcam is wonderful and it's the reason I upgraded to MC Soft. I would do the same if I were you since it's a bargain right now. $395 for downloaded upgrade.

Then you can either hook up the camera or a deck via firewire to transfer the files.

The audio sucks when editing proxy files but the workflow is so good it makes up for it in the long run. Just a couple of minutes per disc to import...

When you have locked picture, just batch import the high res files. It's really how all file based workflows should work.

You can use two approaches.

One, upgrade to 5.x and then import DVCAM files as FAM files from the camera or from a hard drive (that you have transfered the files to).  AXP does not handle IMX files at all.

Upgrade to MC as rebus suggests and you can work with the IMX files. You don't need a deck. You can transfer the files to a hard drive and then import into Avid. Or you can use the camera in FAM mode and transfer the files directly into an Avid bin.

At some point you will have to upgrade anyway if you stick with Avid. It just depends on your time frame and budget at the moment. But, you can't beat the $400-$500 upgrade to MC. It is just the computer hardware requirements that may get expensive.