CompuServe Thread

#Visca Editors

4 messages in this thread
#30321From: Jerry RockwellMay 19, 1993 6:51 PM
Can anyone comment on the new Ami-Link which has just come out? VIP I think it's called. Also what about the possibility of linking this TAO Editizer with the Amiga and a Toaster. It is a PC editor which I know links to a toaster. I do have a 486-50Mhz which could run it. I mean I already have it so are the possibilities better with the two machines. These two are the only full blown editors I know of to support fully the Sony VISCA protocol. I want to be able to edit with all the features of the CVD-1000 deck from a VISCA control and still be able to insert animations and voice over etc. I will be using a TR101 CVD-1000 (Vdeck) and a Sony SLV-R5UC. Thanks , Trying to muddle through choices.. for a purchase. Rocky
#30334From: JERRY HATCHETTMay 19, 1993 11:11 PM
Rocky, I have the TAO Editizer, and am using it with my Toaster setup and some Sony RS-422 decks. I know that TAO's support of the VISCA protocol is very recent, and based on my experience, before you buy the machine, get something IN WRITING from TAO saying that their equipment does in fact support your equipment. In my dealings with them, they've been one of the most unreliable, undependable, and apathetic companies I've ever been on the other end of a business relationship with. Tech support for me has been virtually worthless, they will not return my phone calls, and they've made a lot of unkept promises. All in all, the Editizer is a good concept, but be VERY leary of dealing with TAO….. Jerry
#30348From: Jerry RockwellMay 20, 1993 8:43 AM
Ok, Thanks for the info on TAO. I doubt if I will go with them based on what you say. I mean they are a little pricy. Do you know anything of Mediaphile ? I received info from them calling for only a $200 software program to control the Visca. I was not impressed with the quality of their mailing. It looked like it was done on a C-64 with a dot matrix printer and then Zeroxed for multiple copies. I also paid $25 for their demo Video tape which really just showed their EDL software and made no mention of VISCA control. I would want something that does more than just starts,stops and searches on the Vdeck I have. It is also capable of PCM recording etc thru the VISCA control. Right now I'm playing around with Video Director to get my feet wet but it just does limited editing and nothing else. Thanks again. Rocky
#30358From: Frank VanellaMay 20, 1993 10:21 AM
Jerry, If you check out the newest issue of VTU (should be hitting stands any time now) you will find a review of TAO Editizer. Although I did not have the oppourtunity to test the Editizer with all the machines they claim to support, I was able to execute all the features they promised with my own setup (mostly JVC Broadcast gear, and a Canon Hi-8 camcorder) without a hitch. I think that you should follow Mr. Hatchett's advice and make sure that the software supports your decks before jumping in. In my opinion, the primary advantage of the Editizer is the fact that no V-Lans (expensive control transmitter/reviever boxes) are required, as they are in many other systems. The implimentation of built-in TC generator/readers is quite nice also. Obviously the folks at TAO were extremely helpful with my questions because they were aware I was involved in writing an article, so I would like to see if Mr. Hatchett's experiences with their tech support are shared by others. My initial impression of the package is that it is straightforward enough to use out of the box for most semi-pros out there, but I can see that they should provide some support for first timers. On the whole, I would advise you to look at TAO's product as a definite option because it is a real value when you consider the cost of V-lans that you DON'T have to buy (about 2k ea. and you need one for each machine), and built in time code capability which is worth several hundred dollars on it's own. There are at least 5 different software based edit products available now, in various price ranges and features to match. I am sure there will be other users on this forum that can offer feedback on those other systems and try to help you out. Regards Frank