Matrox MXO (2.0) Display Output Device Review (page 2)
Irregularities and Annoyances
The MXO can get confused if you often switch back and forth between applications that use the MXO hardware, resulting in a frozen image. You can avoid this in most cases by toggling the MXO on and off by hitting Command-F12, but this can quickly become annoying if you switch apps frequently.
When you switch between apps that use the MXO and those that don't, the second or two of black flicker as the MXO engages on your LCD monitor also quickly becomes annoying.
There are a few irregularities in connecting the MXO to external broadcast VTRs. To get deck control from the computer, you must install a separate RS-422 adapter. In addition, the analog audio support is stereo RCA only, so you most likely will need adaptors to connect to your XLR inputs. However, if you're using SDI, the MXO does support embedded audio, allowing you the full 8 channels of 24-bit, 48kHz audio.
Conclusion
For high-definition editing on a Mac, take a serious look at the Matrox MXO. Coupled with a relatively inexpensive LCD monitor, it's like getting the functionality of a full broadcast monitor at a fraction of the price, with useful output options not found on any display.
TECH SPECS
Matrox MXO requires a Mac system with the following configuration:
Mac OS X v10.4.7 or later.
DVD-ROM drive to install the MXO software.
Free USB port.
Display card with a secondary DVI-I connector.
Monitoprust display 1920×1200 @ 60Hz e.g., Apple Cinema Display
512MB RAM recommended for QuickTime-based editing; Apple recommends 2GB for HD editing.
Strengths
- Broadcast monitor controls
- Pixel-perfect remapping
- Outputs a variety of formats
Weaknesses
- Switching apps frequently can confuse it
- Analog audio support not as robust as SDI
SUMMARY
Matrox's Mac solution for video monitoring and output is very effective.
John Burkhart is Videomaker's Editor-in-Chief.
Matrox Electronic Systems
1055 St. Regis Blvd.
Dorval, Quebec Canada H9P 2T4
www.matrox.com
$995
