[Brian Thomas]

I just spent a few minutes looking around and stumbled over Cisdem DVD Burner for Mac. Could be interesting according to several reviews.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

I’m deliberately not going to Catalina just yet mainly for exactly this issue but also because it’s so new you just don’t know what you’ll be up against. However, over the last year I have been looking around a bit for a replacement for Encore and I’ve even bought Wondershare DVD Creator. A few months ago I tried producing something and it sort of worked but then I got distracted.

For my purposes I think it should be OK. Basically my menu backgrounds are always between 30 and 60 seconds of video with appropriate buttons to various places in the timeline or to other menu screens. One thing I did have problems with was using the output of Compressor, you know, the option specifically for making DVDs. I ended up by using the master.MOV file direct from FCPX or a specially created .MP4 of the master. (for those I’ve been using MacX DVD Video Converter Pro Pack but knowing me there may be simpler ways!) I couldn’t see any difference in the ultimate video quality on the DVD whichever of these two I used as input. Maybe that’s my old eyes…

Now that Catalina’s out I’m going to do some more research for other options as time allows but I wouldn’t be surprised that if I concentrate a bit more on Wondershare that it will eventually be a good substitute for my relatively straightforward needs. Give me some months and I’ll come back with more of my experiences but for now I have to continue using old familiar Encore.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Oh fine, no problem, I’ve got the spare bedroom as my studio and the window is just beyond my right shoulder so no glare!

I’m really looking forward to this Apple option. Makes so much sense. Really glad you saw my post. I had started thinking about the Asus 31.5” monitor but I’ll hold off for the time being.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Actually I’m frequently on those sites looking for additional Panasonic X900M camcorders to add to the five I already have. Picked up four from tutti so far! (I video lots of amateur and school shows round here) Keeps me busy!

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Super advice, many thanks! Best regards from Nyon, Brian.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Thanks for the reply Eric. I’ll definitely bear the Dells in mind.

Apart from the size and the connectors one other feature I’m looking for is manual control over the brightness. I sit next to the window and although the Macbook Pro does an excellent job at adjusting for ambient light, my old external monitor is almost hostile in that respect.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Thanks Alexander but despite it meaning I have to rely a little bit more on Windows, I think I’ll persevere. I’m making some progress here and there.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

I use FCPX practically every day for multicam projects of amateur shows, school productions etc. I use up to nine camcorders simultaneously, I video several performances if possible and have several independent sound recorders running simultaneously. FCPX is a fascinating product BUT at your level of exposure you’ll only enjoy it once you’ve gone through a professionally prepared course. I bought from both Larry Jordan and Izzy Hyman and I’m pleased I got both of them. Both are really concise with just the right amount of subtle ‘refresher’ remarks as the courses progress.

From what you write I think following a course (or two) is the only way. You might be tempted to think spending ten or many more hours of ‘training’ will take up too much time – but in every field of endeavour that’s wrong.

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Oh right, thanks, got it. I was looking in the main menus.. Your solution is much more comprehensive – thanks again!

Near Geneva, Switzerland

[Brian Thomas]

Thanks for the recommendation – I just bought it and it did just what I wanted.

Near Geneva, Switzerland