CompuServe Messages

John, >> Beta SP is the best analog tape format around, but at $25K and up it's not very available to everyday use by PC animators. >> I think I agree on the first point (best analog) although 1" is not dead yet, but there is a popular "industrial" BetaSP deck the PVW2800 which I have used a few times which retails for around $16k. Back in the old days <g>, animation houses would have long debates over whether to invest in a CRV (and rent a betaSP deck when needed) or buy a PVW2800 and transcoder combo. Now, IMHO, the debate is probably moot because the best quality and value for money will be for small outfits to put their money into a motion JPEG card (for a dynamite preview method and possibly final output) and an Exabyte combo (best possible final output to BetaSP, D2 or D1). This will give them potentially far better output quality and for a fraction of the money. I'm glad I didn't go ahead and lease a CRV now. I'm probably going to be assailed by outraged CRV or PVW owners now, but what the heck I'm throwing caution to the wind and a lively electronic debate never hurt anyone <g>. Martin