FCP HD/Express

I

Indy

Well-known member
I'm in the final phase of buying my DVX i.e. just looking now for the best price/service (any pointers for the UK most welcome)

Anyway to the point... finances are a bit tight what with Christmas coming up =8O etc but I was wondering what the issues are with the Apple edit suites.

I've only just moved to the Mac so only have a 14" 933 G4 iBook (looking to get a G5 mid next year)

Looking on ebay I can (just about) afford a copy of FCP HD but is it over kill for a beginner? (long term I'm looking to seriously get into video) will it 'kill' my iBook performance wise?

Is anyone using Express? would it be better for a newbee to use that then pay for the upgrade as and when?

Any comment greatly appreciated!

Indy......
 
Re: FCP HD/Express

I haven't really used Express but it has most of the features and would probably be a good deal if you're just starting out.
FCP comes with a number of other programs such as SoundTrack, LiveType, Cinema Tools. You can find a feature comparison on the Apple site under FCP or Express. Note that you can do a reasonable job of editing a short even with iMovie that should be included on any Mac.

Downsides of FCP Express is no 24 fps editing. Not a real problem unless you specifically plan to go to film or 24 DVD instead of regular DVD. Of course to use 24 DVD you need DVD Studio as well.
If you shootusing 24p (F5 setting) you can capture and edit fine with iMovie, FCP Express or FCP.
 
Re: FCP HD/Express

I would strongly recommend going with FCP if at all possible. The 24pa editing, plus Soundtrack, LiveType and Compressor. Plus looking ahead, the ability to purchase additional filters, etc. which may only be FCP compatible....

I'm not sure if FCP will be that much 'heavier' to your machine than FCX would be. You may want to see if you can squeeze in a scosh more RAM just for good measure.

Also, be sure to check sys req's for FCP before taking the plunge.

Just my $.02.

Chico
 
Re: FCP HD/Express

I have FCE2, and like ScottDVX100 mention said:"Downsides of FCP Express is no 24 fps editing.  Not a real problem unless you specifically plan to go to film or 24 DVD instead of regular DVD.  Of course to use 24 DVD you need DVD Studio as well.
If you shootusing  24p (F5 setting) you can capture and edit fine with iMovie, FCP Express or FCP."

Also you will need something like Sorenson Squeeze 4 for very good output. FCP has more, but for 1/3 of the price, you get something pretty good for the learning progress.
 
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