Posted by Mr. Tapeguy on 09/23/06 06:00

eyebytes wrote:
> Hi,
>
> I need to use Final Cut and Motion for projects at church, so I bought
> a full set with manuals on craigslist last week. Since then I've been
> pulling my hair out trying to decide on the best Apple computer for my
> needs.
>
> Here's my requirements:
>
> 1. Run Motion and FCP for small projects, typically 5 - 15 minutes (not
> movies).
> 2. I already have a 20" monitor with VGA and DVI connections, which
> could be used as a primary or secondary monitor (with iMac).
> 3. I have an Xbox 360, so it's not likely that this computer will be
> used for gaming.
>
> QUESTIONS:
>
> 1. Is a 20" iMac monitor, (with a secondary 20") going to work well in
> Final Cut? The 24" iMac looks nice, but is it really worth the extra
> $500... especially since I already have a 20" that's not being used?
>
> 2. Will I see much performance boost with 256MB of VRAM over the
> standard 128?
>
> 3. Will I be happy and productive with an iMac Core 2 Duo (which is
> limited to 3GB of RAM), or should I splurge for the Mac Pro instead.
>
> Keep in mind that I'm getting this primarily for church projects, but I
> might find a way to use the software and computer to make some money on
> video projects down the road.
>
> Any and all advice is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

There are several variables here.

What will you be shooting on? If you are using DV, you can probably
stick with the iMac. If you are using analog or other HD you may need
a AJA or similar input card which will require the PCI slots of a Mac
Pro. You would also need that if you wanted to use something like an
external SATA raid.

Also, Motion is pretty memory and graphics card intensive. If you're
going to use it you need to not skimp on RAM or VRAM. The iMacs can
run it now but be sure you've beefed everything up.

The second 20" monitor should be fine now that they've added that
capability and you can use them as a dual monitor setup which many
editors prefer, assuming that's available in the system settings which
I believe it is now.

Let me know if you have any more questions.

Craig

http://www.pro-tape.com

Authorized Apple Service and Pro Video Reseller

[Back to original message]