Varicam Editing Workflow using FCP HD

I shot a feature on the Panasonic Varicam, and can't find any clear workflow about how to post the movie using FCP HD. I shot on a Panasonic varicam in 24p mode, and I have appx 40 hours of raw footage to import and edit into a 2 hour movie.

Yes I know that the new Panasonic AJ-HD1200 deck is a great answer - but I just can't imagine that 14MBps data rate can be the highest quality (not to mention, it's not out yet). DVCPROHD has a 100MBps data rate. I have also spoken with a rep from Blackmagic / HD Decklink who told me that downconverting and then importing via SDI cards such as his won't allow me to actually capture a rebatchable timecode for a real uncompressed HD online. Something about Panasonics 60fps timecode that FCP can't read unless it is through the firewire. He made anything besides the new AJ-HD1200A Deck sound rather bleek. He even said that downconverted tapes won't allow me to have a useable timecode in the post.

So here are my questions:

1. If I am NOT using the new AJ-HD1200a deck - instead a Panasonic AJ-HD150 - what is the most cost effective and efficient workflow if I want to offline the film and then create an EDL for HD online? It is a deck with SDI output, but apparently the SDI cards such as Decklink won't support panasonics timecode. A solid workflow and what equipment is needed would be fabulous to know. How much hard drive space?

2. If I do use the AJ-HD1200a deck to firewire my footage in - will this really be the best quality? Or would there be a better way to online to take advantage of the full 100MBps data rate that is native to DVCPROHD. A solid workflow and what equipment is needed would be fabulous to know. How much hard drive space?

3. What is cheapest?


Well, that's all for now. If there is a SUPER FCP GURU out there who knows this, I'm sure your answer to this posting will help many a frustrated soul.

Thanks!

Nick