Wishlist for External Video monitoring options

J

JohnK

New member
Hey folks,

I'm looking to spend some $$ to upgrade my system for accurate color monitoring on an external monitor. I work with both SD and HD projects (mostly DVCProHD) and would like to do color correction in both FCP and Color. I don't have any video cards right now; I preview out to a Sony PVM monitor via DSR-11 on my 2.66 MacPro.

I'm hoping to spend $2K, maybe a bit more if it gets me what I need. I really like the Matrox MXO+ACD combo, and based on the reviews I've seen I'm 90% sold on that (thanks to Shane Ross for all his documentation:thumbsup:). The only problem with the MXO is that it's not a capture device, and if I'm going to spend that much I wonder if I should just bite the bullet and get an AJA or Blackmagic card + an HD monitor. I know I can't afford a full-on CRT model ($5K+) but some of the JVC and Sony Pro LCDs (like the LMD-2030W) are under $2K.

I rarely have to capture/output here, but I do get Betas and other formats from time to time and it would be nice to just rent a deck instead of running out to a post house, plus being able to output my own dubs. And a capture card would help with displaying more real time effects (unless the MXO offers this too)

If you had your druthers, which one would you buy:

1) Matrox MXO ($950) and 23" ACD ($900) = $1850

2) BM Intensity Pro ($330) and Sony LMD-2030W with HDMI ($1400) = $1730
(I know the IPro only has component connections in addition to HDMI, just wondering if it's still a good combo with a Pro LCD monitor)

3) Kona LHe ($1600) and Sony LMD-2030W ($1400) = $3000
(Would have to output to monitor via component, could upgrade to SDI board down the road)


TIA for the feedback,
JK
 
If you really like the ACD and MXO, I'd actually wait. My gut tells me Apple is going to update their Displays this month at Macworld.
 
Yeah I agree. But unless it's a huge price drop there's not much else I need in a display (not sure I care about an integrated iSight); might be able to pick up the older 23" model at a discount afterwards...

JK
 
That's actually what I was suggesting.

A lot of people prefer the Dell monitors over the Apple Displays. I believe Dell accepts multiple inputs and what not. I'm not sure about their new clear beauty.

Nonetheless, you never know what Apple could have in store. They're supposed to have a special unveiling for Pro users. (I'm guessing a new Mac Pro). But if that's not it.... and it's something unique and new. Maybe priorities might change.
 
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