CompuServe Messages

Dan, Mahalo brudda! Regarding your questions; You need to set some sort of budget before getting specific recommendations. Here are some more guidelines to think about: You don't need a genlock if you already have Toaster, Toaster uses the video port on your Amiga. However, if you eventually get a 4000 you could throw a genlock on the A2000 you now have and place it downstream from your new Toaster and add a lot of flexibility to your system by running dedicated CG software such as Broadcast Titler II from Innovision Technology. Currently that software does not support the Toaster as a genlock so having a second system is the only way to use it. You will need at least two VTRs (1 edit, 1 source) to do what's referred to as "cuts only" type production. This setup would only require one TBC, but puts limits on the type of Toaster effects you can achieve. A three machine setup (1 edit and 2 sources) would require 2 TBCs and is referred to as an "A/B Roll" system. Either choice really demands an edit controller of some kind for practical use. There are some folks out there using their camcorder as one of their source decks and controlling their VTRs with control "L" protocol which gives marginal frame accuracy, good enough for most rough cut projects. Those with A/B roll systems usually strive for better accuracy by using time code capable vtrs which although more costly, are less expensive than they used to be. Many are mixing formats with good success, aquiring their footage on Hi-8 and editing to another format such as SVHS or 3/4". If you begin with a conservative "cuts only" pro-sumer type setup, you could probably get away with a budget of say $4000 (with some careful mail order shopping). This would get you a decent single chip Hi-8 or SVHS camcorder, one pro-sumer edit deck such as the AG1970, a board based TBC with freeze frame, and an inexpensive controller for the two units. If you wanted to move up the video "food chain" to a more professional setup, expect to spend anywhere from 10k to 100k or more depending on formats and capabilities. There is such a wide range of options that it is impossible to be more specific without a dollar figure to work with. Frank