We just upgraded a few of our Avid Media Composers to the latest software version 4.0.2. Here are a couple of the gems we’ve discovered in the very short amount of time since installing:
- Mixing frame rates on the timeline is definitely a huge plus. Besides being able to mix and playback multiple frame rates without rendering, we’ve discovered the SD output to tape looks much sharper than in previous versions. There is no need to render the reformat or export to a 3rd party program like After Effects. We can edit an entire show or commercial in HD (or mixed HD/SD) at any frame rate then simply perform a standard digital cut to one of our SD tape machines. That’s a huge time savings!
- The transition preservation feature is one of those nuances editors have desired for years. It does exactly as the name states: segments can be dragged without losing the transition, and sequences containing transitions can now be edited into another sequence without getting an error. Although fundamental from an editing standpoint, it may take a bit of time to get used to editing with transition preservation. Old habits die hard.
- A couple other items of note: the 16 track audio mixer and some updates to Boris Continuum Complete are both welcome additions in this upgrade. You can also view stereoscopic material side-by-side for a more natural line of sight.
Media Composer 4.0 adds and improves upon many of the features in the editor’s arsenal, allowing for smoother, faster workflow and increased creativity. Editors appreciate that and so do their clients!
While we’ve only had a short amount of time to explore 4.0, a few features are noteable. What have you discovered about Avid Media Composer 4.0? What are some of your favorite features?
