[Jeff Swanson]

The MTS files probably came as part of an AVCHD container. I’ve encountered the same issue as you. If the individual MTS files are imported directly into FCPX, it always zeroes out the timecode. I’ve found two ways to retain the timecode on import: 1) import the entire camera card folder structure (or it might be ok to just import the AVCHD container), or 2) wrap the individual MTS files using EditReady into MOV files (which is lossless, so it won’t harm the original recording quality). EditReady does a really good job of carrying metadata including timecode into the MOV wrapper, such that FCPX reads it in correctly.

Option 1 requires you to have the original camera card folder structure (or possibly just the AVCHD container), which your client presumably didn’t provide you. And I also believe FCPX will copy the AVCHD contents into the FCPX library upon import even if you select “Leave In Place” (though don’t quote me on that, I haven’t tried it in a while). You should certainly give it a try if the client can give you the original camera folder structure/container since it’s no extra cost to you.

Option 2 requires you to purchase EditReady, but it’s not expensive and you’ll see it recommended a lot on these forums. I wrap not just my MTS files but also MP4 files because the EditReady wrapped file helps import other metadata that just won’t import into FCPX any other way that I’ve found (other than the original camera card folder structure). If you like to manage your media outside FCPX, EditReady is the way to go.