Standard MacBook Pro and Final Cut Express and other great Pro Apps

Hey Guys - tell me if this configuration of a MacBook Pro would be ok and work great for Final Cut Expess, Aperture, Creative Suite, and other Apps without slowness and other problems
2.4GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
250GB Serial ATA Drive @ 5400 rpm
Superdrive 8x
2GB 667Mhz DDR2 SDRAM - 2 x 1GB
Thanks in advance.

Yes. However, if you want to run +more than one+ of those listed apps simultaneously, the best thing you can do is add more RAM. Go to the max - 4 GB (2 x 2 GB). Note that Apple overcharges for RAM (and they don't make RAM, they just buy it from Samsung, Micron, and others, mark it way way up, and resell it). So, buy Crucial (the consumer division of Micron, in fact) or Kingston RAM. 2 x 2 GB sticks can be purchased for a little over $100 (compared to Apple's $200).
Hope this helps...

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I am traveling with my macbook pro and I forgot to install final cut express and quicktime pro before I left. How can I in a way download them for free on my laptop from where I am

I am traveling with my macbook pro and I forgot to install final cut express and quicktime pro before I left. How can I in a way download them for free on my laptop from where I am? I need them and don't want naturally to buy them again!!!
Thank you

Assuming you purchased QT Pro, you can always download it again at no extra charge by logging in to your Apple account.
Regarding FCE, there is no way to download & install the product. You need an original FCE install disk and your FCE serial number.
Final Cut Pro X (aka FCPX) can be purchased & downloaded from the App Store.

Macbook, Final Cut Express and Canon 5D video files

Hello everyone.
I intend to purchase my first Apple Mac soon. It will probably be the Aluminium Macbook with 4GB RAM.
I am an avid photographer and use the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. I can handle all the processing of the still photographs without a problem but I would like to take advantage of the cameras HD video capability. I know nothing about video editing but I have read that Final Cut is about the best video editor out there. My PC struggles to even play the movies from my camera, let alone edit them.
I have the following questions that I hope some of you can answer:
1. Will the standard Macbook with 4GB RAM be able to handle and edit the large video files (1.2GB for a 5 minute video clip)? I would prefer not to buy the Macbook Pro if possible. The computer will only be used for video editing occasionally. I will not be making 90 minute Hollywood style productions... just 5 minute short films once in a while.
2. Does the cheapest version of Final Cut (Final Cut Express) handle files from the Canon 5D2?
3. I know the video from the Canon 5D2 is generally disliked because it is 30fps and is in a strange format. However, I am not able to change this and I will not be buying a dedicated video camera as I rarely shoot video. So, I need to know if the Macbook and Final Cut Express can do the business with these files. Do you have any advice on how to handle the 5D2 files?
Any advice greatly appreciated.

Will the standard Macbook with 4GB RAM be able to handle and edit the large video files (1.2GB for a 5 minute video clip)?
Yes. You have a lot of hard-drive space with the Macbook Aluminum, so that shouldn't be an issue but you might consider using an external hard-drive to store your media if you ever start making longer movies. To tell you the truth, the Macbook with 2GB of RAM would probably work just as well. I recently upgraded mine and it didn't make much of a difference. Either way though, the Macbook should work fine with Final Cut, mine does. You might consider getting the one with the 2.4GHz processor, I have the feeling that will make more of a difference when editing than the extra RAM.
Does the cheapest version of Final Cut (Final Cut Express) handle files from the Canon 5D2?
Sort of, but it doesn't edit them natively. You can either drop the files in the timeline and render it out and it will work, or, if you don't want to render whenever you make a change, a better technique would be to first convert the clips using an application like the free [MPEG Streamclip|http://www.squared5.com> to something FCE can edit natively such as Apple Intermediate Codec. It's not as simple as drag-and-drop, but it will work.
Do you have any advice on how to handle the 5D2 files?
See above. I recommend the Streamclip conversion over the rendering though. If you have a lot of files to convert, Streamclip has a batch conversion setting so you can set what to convert to once and Streamclip will convert all the files. Converted files can then be edited in FCE without any particular problems.
You should convert using these settings:
Compression: +Apple Intermediate Codec for HD or DV-NTSC for SD+
*Frame Size:* +(A supported FCE frame size, for example 1920x1080, 1440x1080, 720x480, etc. The supported frame size you choose should be as close to your original frame size as possible)+
*Frame Rate:* 29.97
Sound: +Uncompressed Stereo 48kHz+
Keep in mind that the Macbook Aluminum lacks a Firewire port, so if that is detrimental to your use you should consider getting the white Macbook or the Macbook Pro. I believe the Canon 5D Mark II uses USB for transfer though, so it shouldn't be that much of a problem.

Adobe CS4/5 and Final Cut Express On a MacBook Air?

Hey all
Im planning to get a MacBook for my GCSE's, and im leaning towards the air.
I will be running applications such as Adobe Photoshop CS5, After Effects CS5, Lightroom CS5, and Final Cut Express regularly, so would a 13" 1.86ghz MBA C2D Processor with 4gb of RAM be able to run these apps fast and efficiently with no lag? Or should I opt for the baseline MBP 13"? Im also looking for portability, as im going to be taking it into school
Thanks

After effects!? Yikes... that is a beast of a program! Depends how in depth you plan on using it. Are you going to be doing 3D animations with several camera layers? If so, I don't think a MBP is going to work too smoothly. If you are doing basic to moderate use of AE functions then I think it would work fine.
Just a heads up before buying, check out the apple refurb store. They have a bunch of MBP with different specs for a very reasonable price. I got my 17" MBP from there and it works awesome with the same warranty as new... for like $500 off!

Final Cut Pro 4.5 and Final Cut Express 3.0 - 5 minute captures then freeze

Something I have found with Final Cut Pro 4.5 and Final Cut Express 3.0.
After Updating to Tiger - 10.4.11 and Quicktime 7.4.1 - Both Pro 4.5 and Express 3.0 will not capture more then 5 minutes and 12 seconds. If you are having this issue the solution I used to fix both Pro and Express issues was an update on the software. Final Cut Pro 5 fixed the problem (or 6 if you can) and with Final Cut Express, version 3.5 fixed the issue but if you can go with FCX 4.
Let me know if this helped or if you have found a different solution. Downgrading the os might help but that is too much of a pain and it's time to upgrade the software anyway.

#29: Need AGP Graphics card
Shane's Stock Answer #29 – Error: “Need AGP Graphics card”
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=302667
The Final Cut software is looking for a graphics card type that is required for that version of the software. FCP 4 and FCP 4.5 were released when AGP cards were the requirement. Attempting to open this on a Mac with a PCIe graphics card, such as an Intel Mac, will cause this error. FCP 4.5 is not supported on the Intel Macs. If you happen to have a PowerPC Quad processor Mac and get this error, you can try this hack:
http://www.xlr8yourmac.com/feedback/finalcut_pro_on_oldmacs.html
You can also press the "esc" key as you launch FCP. This enables FCP to open and run, but know that it might not work optimally.
If that doesn’t work, or if you have an Intel Mac, you are going to have to upgrade to a supported version of FCP…and FCP 6, part of Final Cut Studio 2, is the latest version.
Shane

Final Cut Pro Studio 5.1.1 and Final Cut Express HD 3.5

Hi,
I have a client with both of these installed on the same machine (running 10.4.6).
When they try and launch either application, the splash screen comes up, loading various filters, etc. then they get an error message:
"File Error: A file of this name already exists" "OK"
Clicking "OK" closes the app.
Any idea:
1. What the file in question is?
2. Can it be deleted to let the app run?
3. Can Final Cut Pro Studio 5.1.1 and Final Cut Express HD 3.5 be used on the same machine?
I'll post this on the Final Cut Express HD 3.5 thread too (but with the order reversed).

What you did was not enough to delete the preferences properly.
This article tells you how. It is for FCE2 but works the same for FCE3 so I assume it is also OK for FCE 3.5:-
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=93690
It's simple to do so try it before reinstalling etc. - You should completely uninstall before reinstalling:-
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=301182
Ian.

Compatibility issues with Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro

I'm getting ready to edit a project and I was wondering if there are any compatibility issues with Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro. I've never used Express put I assume I would be able to make cuts, simple effects and titles. Is this correct.
If I transfer project files from one platform to the other will i run into any issues?
Thanks for all and any help.

{quote:title=cuttingedge wrote:}
If I transfer project files from one platform to the other will i run into any issues?
{quote}
Although they operate in a similar fashion that are not fully compatible. You can open a FCE project in FCP, but once you've edited it in FCP you can't go back to FCE.

Best Settings using the new Canon HV30 and Final Cut Express HD v3.5.1?

My wife presents programs at schools and uses digital movies that we make and edit as one of her media materials. We want to present higher quality videos that look more film-like. I am hoping that the combination I described above will enable this improvement. In the past we used a Canon ZR20 and iMovie HD and put these on DVD's that were then played on a MacBook Pro with with QuickTime or iDVD hooked up to an Epson PowerLite projector.
I am now the proud owner of a new Canon HV30 and Final Cut Express HD3.5.1 (had FCE for a while so know how to use it). From my research, though, it looks like FCE will not be able to handle CINE MODE recording in combination with 24fps progressive frame rate [HDV(PF24)] which would allow the enhanced effect of the Cinema Mode. I can't justify the cost of Final Cut Studio 2 so I am hoping that the new [HDV(PF30)] will allow me to more easily edit in FCE.
Does anyone know if this is true and if so can please tell me the settings that I need both on the camera and in FCE to get the best quality movie that can played directly from my MacPro using QuickTime or iDVD or from a DVD in the MacPro using the iDVD player. I won't have the opportunity to always play the videos directly from the camera to an HDTV because of the school setting and the need to use a projector.
I know this is a lot to ask for, but I am sure that it will come up again and again as more people purchase this new camera. Thanks for your time.
Sincerely,
Lou Hosta

Without totally repeating myself with my post to MaccyLeopard, I haven't shot any footage yet. After doing a lot of reading I think I confused myself more than helped myself as far as settings go. So if you remember from my initial post I am asking for advice and guidance primarily on camera settings with the HV30 that will be used in a classroom (artroom) setting and then edited using FCE HD v3.5.1. I wish I was the type of person that could jump right into using a new piece of equipment but I like to get the advice of others beforehand. That way I'm not always questioning myself as to 'whether or not is this the best I can get'. I also am wondering if the 30fps frame mode would be the best to use in the classroom setting? From my reading, this mode should allow more light onto the tape allowing me to shoot in conditions with lower light levels that are typically found inside? Finally, is FCE HD able to edit this new 30 fps frame mode of the HD30? I've heard that FCE HD can't handle the 20 fps frame mode.
Thanks for taking the time to help me out.
Sincerely,
Lou Hosta

IMovie vs Final Cut Express and Pinnacle Studio

Before I had the Imac (6 months now) for my video or photos I use Pinnacle Studio 11. Now I want to update the IMac to Leopard with ILife 09. Now I also want to use Final Cut Express for video editing. However since I seen the introduction of IMovie 09 I'm not sure which investment to make.
My question to you: with my experience with Pinnacle will Imovie 09 apply for video editing or should I also get the FCE. And what about my projects done in Pinnacle Studio.
Thanks in advance for all your reactions.
Ron

I migrated from using a PC and Pinnacle Studio 11 to a MacBook Pro and Final Cut Express about 9 months ago. I had no previous experience with a Mac, so it has been a very steep learning curve for me. But I have been studying the bright minds on this forum for awhile and have also been taking advantage of various Final Cut tutorials on the web. I eventually stopped regretting leaving Pinnacle behind and I have come to love Final Cut and the greater creative control it offers. As for iMovie, I found it a little too basic for what I want, but it may be suitable for your needs.
As far as your Pinnacle projects are concerned, finish them up and then immerse yourself in Final Cut. I think you'll be glad you did.

I edit movies onMac OS X using Final Cut Express and down load to desk top in .mov format. How do I load finished movie to i pad 2? i tunes will not transfer it.

I edit movies onMac OS X using Final Cut Express and down load to desk top in .mov format. How do I load finished movie to i pad 2? i tunes will not transfer it. Thanks, stevefromnorthfreo

Try outputting it as a MP4 or M4V
If Final Cut won't output it, Mpegstreamclip will convert it. So will Quicktime if you have the pro version.

Size of Final Cut Express and LiveType?

I want to get Final Cut Express soon. on info site it says this for the hard drive requirements:
"500MB disk space required for applications; additional 16GB of additional storage space for Soundtrack and LiveType content (can be installed on separate disks)"
1. I don't need soundtrack, I have better Programs than that, so just Final Cut Express and LiveType, I can install the extra content on my external drive but I need the program and main effects on my Macbook so how much would all this take up on my macbook.
2. I tried copying my school's livetype from the computer but it just did the program with no effects or anything, does me no good. so I'm just gonna buy my own copy. but where it says 500mb for apps is that what its talking about just basically an empty shell no effects or templates or anything, just a useless program.

Just a bit of friendly advice ... the folks who contribute to this forum are good people who participate with a genuine interest in helping out, and they don't get paid to do it. People will respond when they have the information and the desire to provide it. Attitude counts for a lot in these forums, and patience is a virtue, if you understand my meaning.

Final Cut and Final Cut Express on the same mac

Hi again
Is there any problem or issue running Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro on the smame mac? I doubt there is but I've been asked to check before we take the plunge.
Thanks

No.

User Contributed Tips in Final Cut Express and Final Cut Express HD Forum

*The following User Contributed Tips are located in the Pro Applications: Video > Final Cut Express and Final Cut Express HD Forum:*
skalicki` - Working with AVCHD: Log and Transfer FAQs
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2672530
Publish date: December 03, 2010
skalicki` - Final Cut Express: Basic Troubleshooting
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2662419
Publish date: November 26, 2010
*The following related tips are located in other areas of Apple Discussions:*
Please see the User Tips Library

I'm relatively new to FCE myself, so I'll answer with what I know. I'm sure the more experienced folks will either add to or correct what I say.
1) For the Inconvenient Truth thing, I believe this would best be done in LiveType, which does allow you to do animations, and to work on individual letters and characters. Whether or not it could exactly reproduce the effects in the clip, I'm not certain, but I'm sure it could come very close.
2) For the Crowd or the Cross effects, there are two things going on at once: effects on the text, and effects on the video. My gut feeling is that both FCE and LiveType can do these, with lots of work and patience, but I'll defer to other people to answer.
3) The page peel is a transition built into FCE.

Compatibility between FCP and Final Cut Express

I'm getting ready to edit a project and I was wondering if there are any compatibility issues with Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro. I've never used Express put I assume I would be able to make cuts, simple effects and titles. Is this correct.
If I transfer project files from one platform to the other will i run into any issues?
Thanks for all and any help.

Final Cut Express is very similar to Pro. The limitations are primarily the limited range of video formats that FCE works with.
You can import a FCE project into FCP. It doesn't work the other way round.

I am new to Final Cut Express and don't understand why I am unable to drag transitions into Canvas? Something wrong in my setup? It's not the overlays they are "on" so can anyone advise me please?

I am new to Final Cut Express and don't understand why I am unable to drag transitions into Canvas? Something wrong in my setup? It's not the overlays they are "on" so can anyone advise me please, by the way the "L" doesn't appear in the bottom left hand corner either? and by the way how can I get rid of that irritating Blue badge saying "AutoFill your contact details" all mine are in "address book" already!

You can't drag a transition into the canvas. If you're dragginmg a transition from the effects tab you drag it between the edit point of two clips in the timeline.
Make sure show edit overlays is turned on in the Canvas view popup.

Standard MacBook Pro and Final Cut Express and other great Pro Apps

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