Linear Edit Controllers Buyer's Guide (page 2)

As we move into the next higher price category, we find edit controllers with additional features. These controllers, while more powerful, can also be a bit more challenging to learn. The additional features, however, allow more creative control, and for many producers, this makes the learning curve more than worth the trouble.
Datavideo's SE-200 Pro Integrated Editing Center combines both edit control (A/B-roll capable) with pre-roll and adds a titler with keyboard entry. While lacking in some of the more 'pro' features (jog/shuttle, insert edit and EDL), it does have a very nice feature set for more advanced home video producers, allowing you to add titles and transitions to your programs, all from one inexpensive ($579) device.
Those with Panasonic AG-1970 or AG-1980 decks should check out the Panasonic AG-A96, a stand-alone edit controller made specifically for these decks. With a jog/shuttle dial, insert edits and pre-roll, it can transform these decks into a nice edit suite for only $565.
The Panasonic AG-A350 is a workhorse of a stand-alone controller, allowing Insert Edits and time code. It has a Jog/Shuttle Dial, and uses an RS-422 interface to control a variety of decks. Priced at $1,050, it offers good value in a mid-priced editor.

In the most expensive category are professional stand-alone controllers and more powerful computer-based editors, including a linear/nonlinear hybrid. While these products are all more complex, they are also feature-rich, allowing more creative freedom in your productions.
JVC-Professional makes the RM-G820U stand-alone controller that adds Digital Slow-motion Control to a jog/shuttle dial, insert edit capability and GPI triggering. The suggested retail price is $2,400.
A capable computer-based editor, the Editizer from TAO Media Systems ($2,495), includes a software editing interface, for Mac or Windows computers. Offering A/B-roll editing, GPI triggering and the ability to control an SEG, this long-popular choice includes several control protocols.
Finally, from FAST Multimedia, the Video Machine is a computer-based edit controller that can be upgraded to become a full-blown hard-disk-based editor. Retailing for $2,495, the Video Machine does just about everything, and by adding the Digital Player/Recorder option, you end up with a true hybrid solution.

When thinking about buying an edit controller, you need to ask yourself a few basic questions:

• What do I intend to do with this editor?
• What sort of decks and camcorders do I have to use as source and destination deck(s) in my edit suite?
• What is my budget? How much can I spend now and how much could I spend in the future to upgrade, if I chose to do so?

Review the list of edit controllers in this article, and be sure to shop around, whether in person, on the Web or via telephone. You will end up spending a good deal of time working with whichever controller you choose, so you want it to be the one that will get your job(s) done the way you want, and that you will feel comfortable using.
After you decide on a model, be sure to shop around for price, as well. All the prices in this article are MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price); 'street'' prices are typically a good deal lower than MSRP, especially when there are special promotions and rebates. Be aware, however, that sometimes the cheapest price may not be the best deal, especially when having to order through the Web, or by phone. Pay attention to shipping charges and return policies. These could make the difference between a good deal and a great deal.
Above all, enjoy the process of expanding your video production possibilities. Those who create video programs enjoy what could be the most limitless and exciting artistic medium ever invented. Let your imagination go wild, and have fun creating new visions.

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