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Importing Quicktime files into Avid
I usually edit with FCP, but I need to deliver a project on Beta SX tape. I don’t have a Beta SX deck, but a friend of mine does. The problem is it’s connected to an Avid machine. So I need to deliver a file from FCP that can be read by Avid.
I understand that Avid can import quicktime files, but what’s the best codec to use? I would like to take advantage of Beta SX’s 4-2-2 capabilities if possible, so that leads to using a DVCPro50 or uncompressed 8-bit codec. Can Avid import either one of these files? Or would it be safer to just use a DV codec? Also, is there a big difference in terms of quality and import time between these codecs?
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4 Replies
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the animation codec at best settings is generic.
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Thanks Grinner. I never even considered that codec. But now I’ll give it a try.
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Ask your friend for the Avid codecs and render to one of those (1:1 OMF seems a good option.)
Importing animation in avid is dog slow, while importing the correct codec is nothing more than copying to the OMF folder.Keep in mind that Avid uses Studio RGB (16-235, or 255, not very clear) so do a test with captured bars first to see if they line up nice, otherwhise, compensate using levels.
hth -
Avid import settings 601/709 assumes input file is RGB 16 – 235
Avid import settings RGB assumes input file is RGB 0 – 255an Avid will let you choose which levels to use when exporting. I use 601/709 for outputs going to video [archive, DVD-V] and RGB for outputs going elsewhere [streaming].
Something I’m trying to get our crew to do is name exported files according to the levels set on export, mainly so I don’t have to remember.
exported_file.ANI.RGB.REF.mov
is a sequence exported using the Animation codec at RGB levels into a QuickTime reference movie.exported_file.ANI.601.mov
is a sequence exported using the Animation codec at 601 levels into a self-contained movie.dbk
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