Archive notice: This article was originally published on June 27, 2006. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
After Avid presented the new version 2.5 of its Media Composer family at NAB 2006 in April (DP reported), the various configurations of the editing system are now available. In addition to the new software-only variant, Avid also offers configurations with hardware acceleration.
The new software version 2.5 brings, among other things, improved dual-platform functionality, additional HD functions and improved Realtime Multicam support.
The new version of the Media Composer software builds on the existing toolset and supplements it with additional features:
Support for the HD format under Mac OS X allows editors to work with HD formats such as DVCPRO HD, HDV and Avid DNxHD. With the use of the optional Avid DNxcel Board, they can also encode HD material in Avid DNxHD resolutions (with data rates of 145 Mb, 220 Mb and 10-bit 220 Mb ).
The expanded Realtime Multicam for Mac and PC supports HD resolutions and allows grouped clips to be viewed before the editor moves a selection to the timeline.
XDCAM HD support allows work with Sony’s new file-based HD format.
Motion Tracking and Stabilization with SteadyGlide helps stabilize shaky camera footage while retaining the desired camera movements, such as pans and tilts.
Full-screen Playback via DVI enables SD or HD projects to be viewed on LCD or plasma screens connected to a graphics card.
The Media Composer products can also be connected to Avid’s nonlinear workflow engine Interplay. All products in the new Avid Media Composer family are available worldwide now; Avid Interplay is expected in the 3rd quarter of 2006.
Media Composer is available in the following configurations:
As a software-only version for Mac and PC for 4,700 euros (excluding VAT).
Together with Avid’s Mojo SDI for 7,099 euros (excluding VAT).
As Media Composer Adrenaline for 18,500 euros (excluding VAT).
Or as a fully equipped Media Composer Adrenaline system with Avid’s DNxcel hardware encoder for 21,300 euros (excluding VAT).
For educational institutions, Avid offers special Academic prices for all Media Composer configurations.
Further links:
- Avid Academic
Avid Media Composer Software
