I-Mac To Desktop

Robbie Comeau

Robbie Comeau

Como's back. back again
Hey guys.

I've been using the iMac for editing for quite some time now (24 inch, 3.06 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo, 500 GB Hard drive 4 gigs of RAM), and I'm thinking of making the switch to a desktop computer.

I want to complete my studio, so I'll be buying two 24 inch monitors, along with my mac.

Now, I'm looking at these two options: http://store.apple.com/us_smb_78313/browse/home/shop_mac/family/mac_pro

Should I be buying the more expensive one, or can I get away with the Quad-Core, editing HDV footage, at 29.97 frames.

Also, I'll be using AE.

I'm not big in special effects, but I will be using them.

There's probably a huge difference in the two options, but can I really get away with the Quad Core and edit fine in Final Cut?

Any answers would be great,

Thanks,

Robbie
 
I'm editing on a macmini for now since my machine died. Been doing me just fine so a quad-core is more than enough muscle for just about anything, especially HDV. I'd convert to PRO RES though, with FCP can now do on the fly as you ingest.
 
Really for what you plan on using it for there is no need to upgrade your computer at all. (maybe just upgrade your RAM)

Plus the Mac Pro's are due for an update so holding off may get you either a better deal on the one you've linked or get you a computer with newer bells and whistles.

If you feel compelled to buy no matter what, buy a refurbished one and save yourself some money (unless you plan to do a build to order).

Quad core is more than enough. (Quad Core 27inch iMac is a pretty damn good computer too and cheaper)

If you go 8 Core, skip the 2.26ghz version and get the 2.66ghz. From all my research in the past when I aimed to get a system, everyone said the 2.26 was slow for everyday use.
 
I have an old MacPro that's 3 years old. Two dual cores at 2.66GHZ and a ton of RAM. It still works like I bought it. Had a problem or two but it's never actually needed a repair. I just edited my first feature on it in HDV...worked great. No problems here.

I would think about whether or not you actually NEED one though. Money could be put to better use maybe...
 
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