FCP Express vs FCP pro

clarkage

clarkage

Well-known member
So what is the main difference in these 2? I understand that Pro is obviously FOR THE PROS, where it has more manual control most likely. But is there anything in Pro you cant get in express? Does anyone here have Express? If so, how do you like it? Was it worth the $200?
 
All it does is HDV and DV editing in 60i- all other formats require FCP. It's a cheap way to learn the interface, not meant for pro work.

Noah
 
Oh, so you wouldnt reccomend it? Right now I am just shooting all my stuff on a Panasonic GS320 which would work for this program but in the future i plan on upgrading. But what is the actual EDITING like in express compared to pro?
 
Controls are identical- but then again "driving" a Hyundai is in theory the same as driving a Porsche... I would not recommend FCE to anyone unless getting into editing for the absolute lowest price was the most important thing. FCP brings way more power- not to mention it comes with Color, DVD Studio Pro, Compressor, Motion ,etc.

Noah
 
Alright, Thank you very much for the help! It is greatly appreciated. Looks like I will just have to save up for FCP...
 
I believe you get a discount on it if you are a student.

The downside of that is, if FCP 3 comes out, you wouldn't be able to upgrade because you have the student edition.

The upside is, you pay $699? for FCP 2 rather than the $1299 that it is right now.
 
Definately pay the extra money... if you love film you'll want to shoot 24 frame at some point in time, and you'll need FCP. Also you'll love the many little things like all the royalty free sounds that come with Soundtrack Pro, I use them all the time. I haven't even opened motion yet, but I'm sure I'll use it a lot when I do. BUT... the biggest advice I can give you is to get the DVD/textbook tutorial so you know how to work it... I can't imagine using all the features if I had not. Don't worry, It goes fast with FCP, but Soundtrack Pro has some boring spots. yeah, there's a dvd/textbook tutorial you can buy seperate for each.

P.S. Does anyone know where I can buy more royalty free sounds, like on a dvd, or some other apple program? I would prefer to avoid uploading them directly from the websites. Thanks in advance.
 
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Just buy the academic version of final cut studio 2 for about 500 I think it is and then once youve learned it and are making money with it upgrade to final cut studio 3 whenever it comes out then buy the upgradable version version.
 
Wow that sounds like a great discount! Do you have to be in college though? I am just in Highschool right now, Does that still get me the student discount? Also, I plan on going to film school and I am just wondering if i should just wait until I hit films school where I can use FCP there. What do you guys think?

(Keep in mind I AM IN HIGHSCHOOL. Money doesnt come to easily for me, besides that 20 bucks you get from your grandma on your birthday. I also have other financial things I need to keep in mind. Like, I will be buying a car pretty soon, film school, etc.)
 
It is good for any student, you just may have to furnish some proof. I initially
bought FCE, it helped my learn FCP, but within two months I was ready to upgrade.
If you just can't spend the extra, it is a great way to learn. You can probably get a
great educational discount on FCE too.
 
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