July 12, 2007 11:16 AM
Avid Raises the Bar
Avid Technology announced a couple of short months ago the worldwide availability of Media Composer 2.7 and Xpress Pro 5.7, new versions of its digital video editing systems, now with native support for Intel-based Macs. While it took me some time, adjusting to the new applications, I thought it may be time to report on them.
Media Composer’s software is the perfect tool set for video editing! The utility is cross platform and includes a cornucopia of new options. New features include support for the Intel on Mac systems, which I mentioned in the intro. Also, new to the suite are the high quality low bandwidth DNxHD 36 Codec, improved XDCAM and P2 workflows; ScriptSync, the automated script editor, and 720p50 format. Add all this up with an already existing creative tool set, integrated media management, and multi-format editing support and Media Composer could be considered one of the best editing solutions in the industry.
One specialty of Avid’s video editing tool is the ability to combine HD, SD, DV, and film formats and resolutions, as well as Avid AVR and Meridien JFIF media, in the same timeline without rendering, transcoding, or re-digitizing.
Avid also offers Media Composer with Avid Mojo SDI, the perfect solution for film and video editors who want digital SD, DV, analog video, and digital audio I/O. Avid Mojo SDI hardware connects with a simple IEEE-1394 (FireWire) link, for a compact, take-anywhere editing solution that is truly industrial-grade. Avid Mojo SDI hardware features up to 8 channels of embedded audio over SDI, plus 4 channels of AES/IBU audio I/O.
Additional capabilities include 16-bit audio and optical S/PDIF audio support, while bi-directional signal flow lets users monitor video during capture while recording up to 4 channels of audio directly into the timeline.
Folks looking for a more cost-conscious solution may want to consider Avid Xpress Pro to tell their stories. It’s a complete video editing environment in an affordable package combining video, audio, film, encoding tools, and custom music creation software. It includes both Mac and PC platforms in one integrated package.
With version 5.7, every Avid Xpress Pro system now contains a version of Avid Xpress Pro for the Mac and Avid Xpress Pro for the PC. The Mac version has been updated with a Universal version that fully supports both Intel and PowerPC-based systems.
Media Composer costs approximately $4,995; upgrades start at $195. Xpress Pro costs $1,695; upgrades start at $49.95.
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