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Learning Curve: FCP vs FCExp?

dmaxdmax

dmaxdmax

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Oct 26, 2006
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I may wish to take advantage of the ed discount on FCStudio though I probably wouldn't use more than is available in FCExpress. For that level of functionality, is learning one more or less difficult than the other? Are the interfaces the same - that is, if I learn FCExp will I be able to hit the ground running in FCStudio?

I won't have the discount forever so I'm considering biting the bullet on FCStudio today even though I won't use it until tomorrow. Maybe never but in my experience I usually err on the side of buying too little rather than too much.

Thanks in advance
 
The interface of Final Cut Express is the same as Final Cut Pro. I believe the only difference between the two is features. Also, keep in mind, Final Cut STUDIO is an entire suite of applications, which includes FCP, Soundtrack, Motion, Compressor, etc etc. Be careful not to mix those up.

Cheers :)
 
I have searched and came up empty.

What are some specific differences of FC Express and FC Pro?

What would I miss out on if I only had FC Express?

Thanks for the help.
 
The only REAL differences are in the "pro-things" you most likely will never use.

FCE only handles HDV for High Def, whereas FCP can use all codecs.
not really a big deal

FCE can only keyframe MOTION effects and not filters too, FCP can do both.
a HUGE deal when you need keyframes on filters, and I think the FCE keyframer sucks too

FCE has NO batch capture
easily worked around

FCE color corrector is a dumbed down version of the FCP one
not a deal breaker, but more control is always better

FCE does not use After Effects plugins, FCP can
if you dont even have an AE fx, who cares!? If you have AE, use that!?

FCE will not allow you custom-map your keyboard.
i never did this, but a "pro" might


So, maybe you would want to try for FCP because it gives you finer control over alot of things you may actually want to use.
 
Sdashiki said:
The only REAL differences are in the "pro-things" you most likely will never use.
Click to expand...

Well except for the bundled applications which come with Final Cut Studio which I have already mentioned. They add a HUGE amount to Final Cut Pro and give you so many options.

I would get Final Cut Studio because when you take into account the extras you get with it I would say it is better value by a long shot.
 
Cromulent said:
I would get Final Cut Studio because when you take into account the extras you get with it I would say it is better value by a long shot.
Click to expand...

I agree 100%. I am trying to cut cost by trimming down on some software that I wont use but I have a huge interest in learning All the FC Studio offers.

I can use FC Pro fluently but I have some learning left to do with the rest of the studio.

My next question is this:

I am in the market to purchase a Mac. I want to be sure that I get plenty of computer to operate the entire FC studio plus a few Adobe programs such as Photo Shop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

It seems like the iMac can handle these programs but from what I have read the graphics card in the iMac isn’t what Apple suggest for FCP.

Would I be better off going with the G5 and getting the graphics card that Apple Says I should or saving some money and deal with a graphics card that isn’t up to the challenge. I now that Motion requires a lot and I will want to use that as well.

Seems to me like I should just go for the Mac Pro, but money needs to be save as much as possible.

Thanks
 
BrownSquirrel said:
I agree 100%. I am trying to cut cost by trimming down on some software that I wont use but I have a huge interest in learning All the FC Studio offers.

I can use FC Pro fluently but I have some learning left to do with the rest of the studio.

My next question is this:

I am in the market to purchase a Mac. I want to be sure that I get plenty of computer to operate the entire FC studio plus a few Adobe programs such as Photo Shop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

It seems like the iMac can handle these programs but from what I have read the graphics card in the iMac isn’t what Apple suggest for FCP.

Would I be better off going with the G5 and getting the graphics card that Apple Says I should or saving some money and deal with a graphics card that isn’t up to the challenge. I now that Motion requires a lot and I will want to use that as well.

Seems to me like I should just go for the Mac Pro, but money needs to be save as much as possible.

Thanks
Click to expand...

Anybody?
 
um... is one easier to use? i've used fcs1 and it took forever to import a mp4(h.264) file, whereas imovie (06 & 08) take a lot less time.
 
If you're in this for the long run and it's more than a hobby keep in mind the G5 will be history soon.

I'd get a Mac Pro..A lot more horsepower.And you will need it if you use Studio.
 
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