Animation Software Review: Zaxwerks ProAnimator 3 (page 2)

As good as ProAnimator is, there are still a few speed bumps on the road to animation heaven. While none will keep you from getting the project out the door, they may slow you down a bit. First, new ProAnimator projects always open in a default window size that does not fill the screen.

You'll need every available pixel of screen real estate to get the most from this product, and it would be nice if it remembered how you used it last. Second, there is no dual-monitor support, so resolution challenged users will be switching between windows on a regular basis. Object Styles and Materials libraries don't support the scroll wheel on your mouse, so plan on a lot of clicking and dragging. For editors who rely on this function to keep that carpel tunnel problem from surfacing, this may be slightly annoying.

Similarly, options in the Text window offer increment/decrement arrows, but do not allow for click-and-hold adjustments. Granted, these are minor objections given the power and speed of this product. We're sure we'll get used to it eventually.

Quibbles aside, Zaxwerks ProAnimator 3 is probably the fastest, easiest way to get 3D text and logos into your video projects. With multiple output options and resolutions, you can animate for anything from DV to HD or even film.

The inclusion of an alpha channel is priceless and there are plenty of pre-made object and camera animations to get you started. Best of all, there are more options under the hood as you become comfortable with the animation process. What are you waiting for? Go to Zaxwerks.com and download the trial version. If you need a solid, simple way to include animation in your videos, you won't be disappointed.

Version: 3.0.2
Platform: Mac: G3 Power Mac (G4 or G5 recommended) PC: Pentium II (PIII or P4 recommended)
Operating System: Mac: OS 9.1, 9.2.1 or OSX 10.1.5, 10.2.3 PC: Windows 2000 or XP
RAM: 128 MB RAM (256 MB recommended)
Additional: Quicktime 5 or 6
Trial Version: Yes

STRENGTHS

• Simple interface
• Loads of presets
• Plays well with other programs

WEAKNESSES

• Hard on system resources
• No dual-monitor support
• Inconsistent interface

SUMMARY
Minor quirks aside, an easy to use, relatively inexpensive professional looking title animator.

Contributing Editor Hal Robertson is a digital media producer and technology consultant.

$645
Zaxwerks
5724 Camellia Avenue
Temple City, California 91780
(800) 549-0250
www.zaxwerks.com

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