New computer. Questions.

[atree 0]

Hello everybody...

I'm in the market for a new computer and was looking for some input on a couple things...

First of all with the macs I know it comes with imovie and was wondering if that is a decent program for editing? There is a deal with mac right now to get final cut express with a 230 dollar rebate so I imagine if I want to get into more serious editing that would be the way to go?

Also I am looking at the desktop imacs and they all seem to come standard with 1GB of ram. Is that enough or is it a good idea to spend the extra dough for the 2GB? Also for a hard drive I imagine 250 gb would be enough?

I've been sort of debating on whether or not to get a laptop or a desktop mac as well... Is it a pain in the ass to edit on a laptop? Also at the same time is it worth it to have a laptop just to be able to have it at the dropzone if you are filming tandems and whatnot?

Lastly I plan on editing in HD is that going to reallly slow things down much? Does the video card have much of an influence on speed while you are editing?

I guess that's about it for now.

Colin

[Spatula 0]

I'd take the time and chat with the folks @ Apple. When your shopping on apple.com there's a chat w/apple expert link that comes up. Explain your situation and they will help you.

I was in a similar boat. Not flying video for a long time but debating on an IMAC or MacBook Pro. I choose the IMAC because of cost. I got a lot more bang for my buck w/it. I got the 20", w/ 2 gig's of RAM and 250 gig HD (plus used the education discount). I have started shooting w/a DSLR now and having a desktop has been great. I was using a Dell laptop and I'm really glad I did two things.

1. GOT A MAC!
2. Got a desktop

Two each their own, but I'm glad I got the mac/desktop combo! Good luck w/your decision.

[HSPScott 0]

The new version if iMovie is HD. I have FC express HD as well. For bigger projects FC gives you more options. iMovie should be good for tandems (that what I am going to anyway).