#EVO-9650
Mike,
the EVO-9650 still needs software to control the deck. Diaquest has an RS-232
software controller for $995. If you are a decent programmer you may be able to
write your own controller software to run from the command line, I don't know I
haven't done it. The Sony people I talked to at NAB show in Vegas did not
recommend the new SVHS decks for animation because they aren't sufficiently
heavy-duty to stand up to it. Currently the EVO-9650 with a targa+, and
controller software is probably the cheapest way to go (about $6k / $7k
street/retail). Alternatively, you could find a used Panasonic AG7750, used
diaquest dq422, and a targa+ for your price range ($4-5k).