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setting up system, need software advice
I’m just in the process of setting up a new system for HD and DV editing. I’m buying a Mac Pro desktop (specs below), I’ve got FCS and I need to know about extra bits of software I’ll need, I’m assuming I’m going to need Quicktime, but I’m doing a course at the mo and we’re using iTunes to resample and import audio;
so I’m wondering if;
I need iTunes on my system or is there a better alternative?
and
Do I need Quicktime pro and should it be latest version of QT or is there a preffered previous version?
Also any further comments on my system specs would be greatly appreciated.
Hardware:
Mac Pro
2.8GHZ quad core proccesor
320GB 7200 hard drive
1TB 7200 hard drive
4GB RAM
Geforce 8800 512mb graphics card
20″ Apple Cinema display
External hard drive Seagate 1TB USB 2.0Software:
Final Cut StudioMany thanks
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4 Replies
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If you have FCS then you have a license for Quicktime Pro.
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As Steven noted above, you should find a QT Pro license key in your FCS 2 documentation, so there’s no need to buy it separately. Regarding iTunes, it’s handy for a number of things (and free), but you can also use QT Player to convert mp3s to AIFFs as long as the QT Pro functions are enabled.
As for other software, it depends on your needs. If you will need to extract files from DVDs, MPEG Streamclip is quite helpful and also free. If you will have to export your finished programs as Windows Media files, then you’ll need to pay the $49 and purchase WMV Studio from Telestream. Get to know Versiontracker as a good source for locating applications that will suit your particular needs.
Don’t forget the “Cow-Free Stuff” forum for tips on finding plug-ins, music, sound effects, photos and footage!
As for your gear, sounds perfectly reasonable, except for the USB external hard drive. I’ve read that the USB transfer rate isn’t fast enough to keep up with Final Cut. FW 400 or 800 might be a better choice.
Have fun!
Mike Raff
Richmond, VA -
cool, thanks for the info.
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I left one out. You’ll probably want to get an app for managing your Final Cut Preferences. Comes in handy when your system starts acting funky. There’s Final Cut Rescue, FCP Attic and Preference Manager. Some are free, some aren’t, some do more than others.
Mike Raff
Richmond, VA
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