EX1 workflow with Final Cut 5.1.4

[wordpictures]

Leaning toward the Sony EX1 now - but have several workflow questions. I edit with Final Cut 5.1.4 - but I've read the EX1 is compatible with FCP 6. My MacPro doesn't have a card reader, so I would have to import footage files through USB2 instead.

What file format does the EX1 use for recording? How well will a USB2 import work. And will I have to convert these files to QT (or otherwise) to import into this version of Final Cut? I've also been accustomed to exporting finished TV spots from Final Cut to mini-DV for Beta conversions for the TV stations - so this workflow must also change. I might rent one for a day - but need to anticipate any work-arounds needed to process the footage. And consider other costs that might need to be incurred to make the EX1 work with my set up.

 

[nsoltz]

You need Final Cut Studio 2 (including FCP 6) for XDCAM EX compatibility.

 

[wordpictures]

I could borrow a laptop with Studio 2 for testing. Is USB2 problematic for uploading footage versus a card reader?

How is the footage uploaded from the EX1? As from tape, must it import directly into FCP, or like from a hard disk - to the computer drive first, then into FCP?

 

[timbook2]

can somebody tell me if the EX1 is switchable PAL and NTSC ?

 

[hantanbl]

can somebody tell me if the EX1 is switchable PAL and NTSC ?

Both. It is switchable within the camera menu