Better to convert from H.264 or mpeg4 AVC H.264?

I've read the threads related to the need to convert video shot in both H.264 and mpeg4 AVC H.264 before editing in FCE. But I am wondering if there are any pros or cons on which would result in the better quality.
Do you experts think it makes a difference? Once you use Mpeg Streamslip is it all the same?
I am asking this because those seems to be the available formats for shooting video with the point and shoot cameras currently available. The Canon format is H.264. Nikon s6000 uses the mpeg4 AVC H.264. With the Canon the workflow involves importing the video from the camera using the supplied Canon software, then converting it with Mpeg SS, before importing it into FCE. Log and transfer doesn't work. When I converted the video straight from the SD card with Mpeg SS, the resulting video when imported into Final Cut required rendering. Using the same setting after importing it with the Canon software, does not require rendering.
I just bought the Canon and I am wondering if I exchanged it with the Nikon if I could avoid the intermediate step or if the quality would be any different. Any thoughts?

Yes, sorry, FTR is For The Record, just like FYI is For Your Information. (and that is a smile.)
It must be so frustration for you folks to have to keep explaining this to newbies. I was thinking perhaps this forum needs one of those sticky, permanent answers called "Codec for Dummies." Or Tom you could add a primer to your next edition of the book.
So the proper terminology when referring to H.264 is codec not format? Unfortunately the manufacturers don't help us much. This from the Nikon website:
Movie Modes
Video file format: MPEG-4 AVC H.264
Audio file format: AAC stereo
HD: 1280 x 720p / 30fps
Standard TV: 640 x 480 / 30fps
Small Size: 320 x 240 / 30fps
HDMI output: mini-connector Type C
HDMI cable not included
Now I understand why our techs at work would always say not all Quicktime .mov files are the same whenever I asked what format people should use when sending us digital video!
FTR or FYI, I did an experiment and shot a bit of video at the camera store using the Nikon s6000 on my SD card and just converted it with MPEG streamclip then imported it into FCE directly. It comes in fine with no need to render it, unlike the Canon file where I have to use the Canon software to import it and then, MPEG streamclip and then import it to FCE. Saves a step.
So I am going to take the Canon back and exchange it for the Nikon. (Another reason for me to be a Nikon shooter!
Thanks for your patience.
Nina Zacuto

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I ripped the DVD Bruce Almighty onto my computer using DVD decrypter. I then converted it using Videora Ipod converter. The ripped file was something like 6.5 gigs. The converted file is only 660MBs. Is this normal ?
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Message was edited by: Tyrkitty

Tom - thank you so much - so if for any reason I would want to use SD I could convert with Mpeg streamclip like I did for my old camera. Not sure why I would do that, but just wondered.
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