Reviews

Whether you're looking to purchase new equipment, or just adding to your wish list, reviews are a great way to learn about a product before you buy it. Making informed decisions when purchasing new gear will help ensure your overall satisfaction with the product.

Blackmagic Announces Video Recorders

mhageman - April 17th, 2008

At NAB 2008, Blackmagic announced two small h.264 encoders to be released in July, the Video Recorder, and Video Recorder SDI. The Blackmagic Video Recorder ($119) is an analog device aimed at consumers wanting to to convert media from videotapes or DVDs to h.264 video compatible with iPods, iPhones, YouTube, IPTV, Web or for full resolution archiving. The Blackmagic Video Recorder SDI ($299), is similar to the Video Recorder, but instead of analog connectors, it comes with SDI in, and an rs-422 port for deck control. A very nice feature for those of you using broadcast level VTRs.
Canon XL H1A and XL H1S improved while cautiously planning next big move

mhageman - April 17th, 2008

At our NAB meeting with Canon they revealed that they are cautiously looking at their next big move in deciding what the future format for their professional line of camcorders will be. Some possibilities include licensing the AVCHD format or possibly rolling their own format. Canon's history of being an imaging innovator leads us to believe that Canon is motivated to create their own, however, their current HDV license with the Canon XL H1A and XL H1S might suggest that they're content with joining a standard such as AVCHD.
Sony PME-EX3 XDCAM Camcorder continues the long GOP story

mhageman - April 17th, 2008

Sony announced it's second EX XDCAM camcorder at NAB this year, the PME-EX3 high definition camcorder with an interchangeable lens system. The PME-EX3 basically has the same guts as the EX1, keeping the functionality and improving the flexibility with the option of different lenses.
Red Announces Scarlet at NAB 2008

mhageman - April 14th, 2008
Red has announced it's new Scarlet camcorder today at NAB 2008. The small format professional camcorder shoots in 3k resolution and it's imager is a 2/3" Mysterium CMOS sensor. Scarlet is to be released in early 2009, and will retail for less than $3,000.We talked with Ted Schilowitz today about Scarlet Specs are below:
- NEW 2/3" MYSTERIUM X SENSOR
- 1-120 FPS (180FPS BURST)
Canon introduces new XL-H1A and XL-H1S Camcorders

mhageman - April 10th, 2008

From A Canon Press Release: CANONS NEW XL H1S AND XL H1A HD CAMCORDERS PROVIDE ADVANCED FEATURES FOR ENHANCED CONTROL AND OPERATION
New 20x HD Video Lens, Enhanced Image Control and Other User-Requested Refinements Serve the Needs of Event Video, Documentary Filmmaking and Pro Markets
Apple Releases Final Cut Server

mhageman - April 08th, 2008

Final Cut Server Now Shipping CUPERTINO, CaliforniaApril 8, 2008Apple today announced that Final Cut Server, a powerful software solution for media asset management and workflow automation, is now shipping. A scaleable server application, Final Cut Server automatically catalogs large collections of assets, allows searching across multiple disks and SAN volumes and enables viewing, annotation and approval of content from anywhere using a PC or Mac.
VariZoom Announces VZ-SnapCrane

mhageman - April 07th, 2008

Reprinted from a VariZoom press release: VariZoom, the manufacturer of various camera controls, stabilizers and motion control systems introduces the VZ-SnapCrane professional DV/HD crane system complete with a precision electronic pan and tilt head, tripod dolly and camera controls. The SnapCrane can be configured to 3 different lengths, approximately 10', 15', 20', depending on the tripod. At the maximum extended length the SnapCrane can support the included pan and tilt head plus a 12 pound camera.
SmartSound Announces Sonicfire Pro 5

mhageman - April 07th, 2008

Reprinted from a SmartSound press release: Attendees of NAB 2008 who visit SmartSound Software Inc.'s booth (South Hall, #SL7712) will be the first to get a live, up-close look at SmartSound Sonicfire Pro 5, the groundbreaking new development in library music. Shipping in June, this new release accesses the largest selection of fully-customizable library music available. With new music timing controls and searching features, Sonicfire Pro 5 gives professional editors the most complete customizable music library solution.
Sony announces slim HDR-TG1 camcorder

mhageman - April 03rd, 2008

reprinted from a Sony press release: SAN DIEGO, Apr. 2, 2008 The new pocket-sized Sony HDR-TG1 Handycam camcorders weighty high-definition capability will appeal to vacationers who prefer to travel light. This diminutive camcorder weighs in at only ten ounces. It has an ultra-portable body measuring just 1.3-inches wide by 4.7-inches tall by 2.5-inches deep.
MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 14 Plus is released

mhageman - April 02nd, 2008

reprinted from a MAGIX press release: BERLIN / MIAMI, FL -- April 1, 2008 - MAGIX Entertainment Corp., a leading developer of software, online services and digital content, today announced the availability of Movie Edit Pro 14 and Movie Edit Pro 14 PLUS, the two latest versions of their award-winning video editing software title Movie Edit Pro. This latest release is available in two