FCP Edit System

D10S

D10S

Well-known member
I am currently editing DVX100a footage with FCS2 on my iMac. I'm looking to upgrade to shooting on the HVX200a or the 170. So my work flow will change from Mini DV to P2.

I would like to upgrade to a Mac Pro edit system. My final output will be to DVD and the web. I will be shooting and archiving my footage at probably 720/24p, with the possibility of some 1080/24p.

Where do I start with setting up the proper system? Do I need a AJA Kona card or do I go with Blackmagic design? What about audio mixing and speakers? I'll also need a good HD monitor. Finally what is the best external drive storage set up?

Is it best if I purchase this all individually, or go through someone like ProMax for a complete system package?

A lot to consider here!
 
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If you can swing a Aja Kona 3 that will serve you well otherwise the BMD cards are a good bargain. Any current model Mac Pro will do the trick for P2 editing.

Noah
 
With a P2 setup, won't a Kona3 only help with monitoring? You can get the files on the system with a card reader via the P2 card. And there are less expensive ways to monitor HD than a Kona 3, no?

I know it's a great piece of hardware, but wouldn't it be overkill?
 
Jim Brennan said:
With a P2 setup, won't a Kona3 only help with monitoring? You can get the files on the system with a card reader via the P2 card. And there are less expensive ways to monitor HD than a Kona 3, no?

I know it's a great piece of hardware, but wouldn't it be overkill?
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I tend to agree. Especially if you are only laying out to web and DVD. I'd look at the BMD cards.
 
since you will only really use a card for monitoring, I'd suggest picking up a BM Intensity Pro and a JVC DT-V20L1U monitor. This will give you the least expensive HD broadcast monitor setup (~$1400). You could bump it up to the 24" model for an extra $600 or so, but since you'll be doing primarily 720p, the 20" would suit you well
 
The OP posted the same Q in the Hardware section and mentioned that the budget is $15-20k for the rig so I don't think suggestions need to be constrained to the 'cheaper-is-better' category.


-A
 
I wasn't suggesting that "cheaper is better" as much as "Put your money where it counts" If I can save 2 grand on a card that I might not need, that's 2 grand I can spend on more memory, a better monitor, etc.
 
well with that budget I'd suggest at least going with the JVC V24L1DU then.... with that you'll have full 1080p and HD-SDI. then just make sure whatever card option you choose has HD-SDI.
 
I wasn't just trying to knock anyone's suggestions (sorry if it came off that way). I was trying to point out that the OP has a decent sized budget to work with so the typical indie spirit of "how can I do the most w/the least amount of money" didn't necessarily apply in this situation.


-A
 
adkimery said:
I wasn't just trying to knock anyone's suggestions (sorry if it came off that way). I was trying to point out that the OP has a decent sized budget to work with so the typical indie spirit of "how can I do the most w/the least amount of money" didn't necessarily apply in this situation.


-A
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No worries man. Everyone is making their intent clear :)
 
How does going with HDV change my edit system choices? I'm still not sure if I want to go with a Panasonic or another HD Camcorder.
 
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