Apple launches Final Cut Express 4
updated 09:15 am EST, Thu November 15, 2007
Final Cut Express 4 ships
Apple has released Final Cut Express 4, the latest version of its video editing package. The software is based on the more elaborate Final Cut Pro 6, and features several upgrades such as support for new AVCHD cameras. The centerpiece of the software though is the Open Format Timeline, which allows users to place DV, HDV and AVCHD videos on the same continuum, rearranging in real-time. Clips are then automatically scaled, cropped and adjusted for framerate, with the initial clip serving as a template. Resolution is limited to 720p or 1080i.
Express now also allows users to import iMovie '08 projects, which can be enhanced through Final Cut's extra features. Among these are 50 new FxPlug filters, such as Soft Focus, Vignette and Light Rays, with more being available from third-party developers. New for creating animated titles is LiveType 2, which taps into a library of stock fonts, textures and effects. Finally, audio can be pushed to maximum volume with minimum distortion through Soft Normalize and Gain controls. Express requires Mac OS X 10.4.10 or later, as well as an Intel Mac if using AVCHD, and/or up to 1GB of hard drive space with the LiveType stock content. The program is $199 fresh or $99 as an upgrade from earlier versions.












New?
11/15, 10:32am reply
Just bought FCEHD 3.5 a week ago for €299,00!!!
Appleman
Mac Elite
Joined: Feb 2001
Capture of HDV?
11/15, 11:44am reply
And can it now capture via Log & Capture when using HDV? FCE 3.n can only use Capture Now with HDV.. :-(
Marook
Forum Regular
Joined: May 1999
Upgrade cost
11/15, 01:18pm reply
Only half-off for an upgrade is too much, IMO. If you're going to lower the entry price, lower the upgrade too. I won't be upgrading.
freaktornado
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 1999
upgrade cost
11/15, 02:17pm reply
If you own FCE 3.5, upgrade cost is $99.
coffeetime
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Nov 2006
re: upgrade
11/15, 05:55pm reply
This is another sign that Apple's going to continue down the road of iMovie 08, and let iMovie HD wither. They want users to upgrade to FCE, which is much more attractive at $199 than $299. It's still a shame iMovie HD is dying.
"Only half-off for an upgrade is too much."
It's not out of the ordinary - Microsoft Office is $399 full, $239 upgrade.
"Just bought FCEHD 3.5 a week ago for €299,00!!!"
You might be able to get a credit or an upgrade from Apple - sometimes they do that.
elroth
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jul 2006