Videomaker 2007 Best Products of the Year (page 2)
Honorable Mention: Innovative Camcorder
Sanyo Xacti E1 ($499)
The Sanyo Xacti E1 combines two old but simple ideas: less is more and waterproof-ness is greatness. OK, we made that last one up, but we're not joking when we say that we had more fun shooting with the Sanyo Xacti E1than any other camcorder this year. Its small and waterproof body allowed us to escape the confines of our cubicles and get wet. Perfectly timed in the heat of the summer, the Sanyo Xacti E1 is a terrific camcorder for water sport enthusiast or tropical island vacationer. Although waterproof technology is not a new idea, its application on the Xacti E1 allowed us to approach videography with a unique perspective that no other camcorder allowed. And that is an innovative approach to videography worth a mention.
Best Editing Computer
Apple Mac Pro (starting at $2,499)
The Apple Mac Pro workstation is a video production workhorse with its Intel Dual-Core Xeon processors and ample room for RAM and additional storage. For video editors, its cool and quiet operation make it a real joy to work with in all types of home/studio environments. For those who need a dependable video editing workstation, the Mac Pro's rock-solid stability is a real strength and time-saver. And it can't be ignored that Apple continues to have an aesthetically pleasing design, which coupled with the Mac Pro's stunning performance, makes a hot workstation.
Most Innovative Product of the Year
Avid Media Composer: ScriptSync ($4,995)
Avid Media Composer's ScriptSync feature knocked our socks off. It gave us a glimmer of hope that digital video editing still has room for improvement. ScriptSync is just the innovation to give the world of video editing professionals a tremendous breakthrough in efficiency. The magic involved with this feature lies in the software's ability to automatically match the audio from your video with the text of your script. The automation of this process can nearly take an editor from importing media to having a rough cut with a few clicks. Now that's a great innovation.
Honorable Mention - Innovative Product
Apple Final Cut Studio 2: ProRes 422 ($1,299)
The Apple ProRes 422 codec opens the door for the semi-pro editor who wants to edit high-quality HD sources without the expensive video decks and high-end storage devices. We also found it useful for the HDV audience trying to gain a little more quality out of their source footage. While it's not an end-all be-all codec, its ability to keep video file sizes down to manageable levels while preserving the quality is a well-needed innovation that will hopefully be builtupon in the future.
Best Lighting Instrument
Chimera 8005 Video Pro Plus ($723)
The Chimera 8005 Video Pro Plus is a high-quality soft-box kit that can be easily added to your existing lighting setup. The light proved to be one of the best in terms of the quality of light that it throws onto your scene. The resulting effect was a soft, even light that had enough intensity to work nicely with a spot or other lights for a variety of setups. This kit comes complete with a sturdy stand and an egg crate grid for extra control over the light.
