CompuServe Messages

I agree that IBM compatibles are catching up, but I think that Mac based systems still have a significant lead in nonlinear systems and will maintain that for some time, particularly in the high end area. One consideration is what will you use your system for: type of end products and distribution medium, who your clients are and what needs will they have, type of special effects (if any) that are needed, your price performance needs and budget, and what equipment you're starting with. All systems on both platforms have something to offer and each is a little different. If you look at this carefully, you may find your PC will do the job with add ons, or you may need a Mac, or you may not need nonlinear at all and a switcher system works perfectly. Both full fledged nonlinear systems and Switcher/nonlinear composites (like Fast Video system with nonlinear options) have pluses and minuses. For a full fledged nonlinear system in your price range on PC compatibles make sure you look at the Targa 2000 systems. On some level their company is connected with RasterOps. From what I hear, the quality of this system is quite good and it would fit your budget requirements. (I use a Mac based system-Media 100) If possible look for a meeting, dealer demostration, convention, or any place where you might be able to compare several systems SIDE BY SIDE. That is the best way to decide for yourself what type and which system will meet your needs. (I looked at reviews for a long time, but going to MacWorld last year really helped point me in the right direction for our system.) And of course by all means read any and all reviews, forums, SIG boards and ask questions. Get all the info you can, its a lot of money and it will ALWAYS seem you could have spend more, or gotten more for your money. By the way just in case you decide to buy a Mac-The Rasterops cards are nice but the Radius VVS has better video (I think). Radius just brought out a "Telecast upgrade for their system which gives Pro ins and outs, component video, hardward synced audio and full genlock capability. Targa just released a Mac version of their 2000 which I've heard performs and looks better than the windows version.(Newer?) All of these "systems" would fit your budget, but the cost of the system is not the only cost: add in CPU costs, additional memory, Larger moniter (hard to do anything nonlinear without at least a 17" or larger moniter), big fast hard drives or arrays, backup storage, cost of video deck(s) (if you don't have it (them) already, and the various software packages you may need if not bundled. This extra costs will be true regardless of what your platform is. Make sure you budget carefully and realistically. Sorry for the long message. Good luck. Reg Harris