Video Futures and Futures Planning
Equipment Recommendations: Long term video commitment
You may want something completely different.
Computer Editing System Cost: $1,000-$3000
Apple (Mac) computers are designed for video editing. To have one dedicated to the purpose is ideal. Most medium to high quality PCs are now at least friendly to uses of video. Although general purpose PCs cost much less than $1,000 these days, these and older models may not have a suitable video card, input-output connectors, or a fast enough hard drive to give blissful editing experiences. As noted, we currently recommend simple (cheap) software, e.g., U-Lead, for PC (or Unix), rather than the Microsoft MovieMaker that may be a preinstallation option.
For a ‘turnkey’ editing system (dedicated computer), the highly rated Alienware Area 51 M7700 Notebook (2005 model) is available for c. $3K. It has 17" very high quality screen, and a tiny but efficient camera built into its lid.
DVD Burner, Lite-On (stand alone recorder): $300
Can copy from tapes or computer, without “authoring.” Allows chapter stops and a few other organizational features. Computer editing usually allows output directly to DVD or CD, and can include different international formats (e.g., NTSC, PAL, SECAM).
Additional Monitor, Philips 200WB7, 20": $500
This LCD type currently is preferred over CRT or Plasma technology, on the balance of quality and price. It has a wide screen, with high definition compatibility—an affordable luxury if you’re doing lots of editing.
Upmarket Camcorders, 3-chip, e.g., Sony DCR-VX2100: $2,250
You may consider a better camera if you also want to create documentaries, teaching videos, etc. The 3-chip models give noticeably superior color and detail. The VX2100 has all the consumer features (auto focus etc), as options to some professional standards. The tapeless JVC GZ-MG70 has a 30GB hard drive, which will store 7 hours (MPEG-2) top quality video. Rated best in its class for 2005 by Videomaker magazine in February 2006, it has no mic or headphone jack, so we can’t recommend it for self modelers.
Lighting and Audio Equipment, and Reference Books will be discussed in a later edition.
Video Magazine Subscription
We heartily recommend Videomaker for self modelers or anyone interested in using video as a hobby or a supplementary skill in their work. It’s available for as little as $12/yr (12 issues), including technical reviews of new equipment and summary articles about technique and production.
Watch www.creating-futures.org for revisions, and new recommendations.
