Video Editing Equipment: Choosing the Right Controller (page 2)

From Hobby To Investment

Remember when I said we weren't going to talk about nonlinear editing in this article? Well, I lied just a little. There is a certain type of sophisticated computer-based edit controller that incorporates both linear editing and nonlinear editing capabilities, offering the most powerful features of both types of equipment. This kind of editor is usually referred to as a hybrid system, and there are several currently available in the prosumer market.
One of the most successful of these is the Fast Video Machine ($3995). On the simplest level, it is a powerful computer-based edit controller that incorporates its own SEG on a computer card. With over 300 real-time effects, a powerful edit controller interface, a title/graphic generator and time code reader/generator, it's easy to see why it's been so popular in the prosumer editing arena. When combined with the Digital Recorder/Player option ($5995), the Video Machine becomes a true hybrid solution with both linear and nonlinear capabilities.

Bringing It All Together

As you can see, putting together an editing system can be quite a chore, even if you already know plenty about the video editing process. The most important thing to remember: make sure you buy equipment that will support your existing gear. By the same token, it's a good idea to purchase camcorders, VCRs, SEGs and titlers with a mind to the future: in other words, purchase gear that supports the editing protocols and other interfaces that you can put to work in the future. Then, when it's time to build that editing system you've always dreamed about, you won't have to scrap any of the stuff that you've already payed for.