Nomad Factory released three new plugins of interest. I find the SC-226 Studio Channel most interesting. This features a four band equalizer, an analog ’signature’ optical compressor and a brick wall peak limiter. Also available: The EQP-4 Equalizer - and the LM-662 Limiting Amplifier. Plugins are individually priced at $149 US.
-ptfigg.
New Broadcast. I mention new studio upgrades, including the Bias Master Perfection Suite and the Marantz PMD 570 CF digital recorder. I also make reference to a few free audio tools including AudioLeak, used to measure RMS values, and Switch, a converter for all audio file formats. Lastly I discuss new products on the horizon by Motu.
Links:
The Conversations Network
MP3 Trimmer
The Podcast Academy
iZotope RSS Feed
-ptfigg.
I originally expressed interest in the Marantz PMD 570 last May. My thinking at the time was two fold. It is now apparent live audio for many conferences, speeches and interviews is captured directly to CF media. Sure it is easy enough to transfer the captured audio and prepare for submission. However many clients simply don’t have the time to manage this process efficiently, especially when dealing with 75-100 recorded presentations and/or speeches for example. It is much easier to submit the CF cards to me directly. The PMD 570 will function as a source device.
Secondly, I now have an external digital recording device, and along with a software utility called CueMix, I can essentially power down my Mac and record directly to the PMD 570. The CueMix Console software transforms my Motu 896HD interface into a stand-alone ‘routing’ device in a sense. After passing through a multitude of external processors, my signal is available at a predetermined set of outputs on the Motu interface, which can be routed to the PMD 570 for noise free recording. Noise free? I am referring to my noisy G5, which sits right next to me during recording.
This digital recorder has a host of useful features, including MP2, WAV, BWF compatibility, Digital I/O, and Balanced XLR inputs with independent trim adjustments for matching precise operating levels. MSRP $900 US.
-ptfigg.
Recently Aphex introduced their new model 240 Dual Logic Assisted Gate™ - Compressor. The patented circuitry of the Gate is designed to never false trigger, click or chatter, as is the case with the Model 622, which is included in my signal chain. [See post from June 16, 2005].
The Compressor and Gate in this processor are designed to work seamlessly. When the Logic-Assisted Gate activates, the Easyrider Compressor is prevented from releasing. This avoids the conflicting nature of the Compressor attempting to raise signal level while the Gate attempts to reduce it. The gain reduction is ‘frozen’ until the Gate is opened again.
The 240 can be used as a stereo processor or on a ‘dual mono’ basis.
This will be available sometime this spring. Looks like another winner from Aphex. MSRP $599 US.
-ptfigg.
Bias will offer their Master Perfection Suite as a stand-alone AU, RTAS and VST plugin for Mac sometime in March. The suite includes spectral matching, pitch correction/manipulation, signal analysis, multi-band dynamics processing, parametric equalization and gate/expander implementation. This package is also bundled with the Peak Pro XT edition. Separately, it will sell for $599 US, which is $100 more than the full version of Bias Peak Pro 5.
-ptfigg.
New Broadcast. I discuss software compressors by Anwidasoft and PSP Audioware. Also, a very useful CD burning application called BurnX Free, and a cool multitrack recording tool by Vosgames. Lastly, I mention a very interesting white paper published by Bias Software which documents the quality of sample rate conversion performed by Peak and many other audio applications.
• Link to third party SRC Evaluation is here.
• Dynamics Processors Technology and Applications
-ptfigg.
I continue to explore various aspects of external voice processing. As mentioned, I am working towards eliminating various aspects of dialog post processing. I have added a second Aphex 109 parametric eq to my chain. I now have the capability to control [equalize] 2 mic channels with independent parameters. The parametric eq’s are configured to apply hi-pass/low-pass filters to each mic channel.
I will be replacing my dbx 160a compressor with an Aphex 651 compressor/hfx expander. I secured the 651 from a local dealer who was nice enough to offer a 90 day warranty on this used piece. [the 651 is a single channel processor].
Besides my obvious interest in Aphex gear, Rane Corp. offers a few interesting pieces worth considering. Recently I posted info on a very affordable 2 channel Rane Compressor at Podcastrigs. Their high end parametric looks interesting as well.
The Rane PEQ 55 Parametric Eq is an ideal choice for broadcast applications. It functions as a dual mono 5 band or a 10 band stereo processor. Complete high-pass/low-pass filter control is available along with Accelerated Slope tone controls. In 2003, this component won the Pro Audio Review PAR Excellence Award. $799 US.
-ptfigg.
It is applications like this which make we want to learn how to develop Mac software. Boom Recorder by VosGames can capture up to 32 independent channels from a compatable external interface, including those offered by Motu. You can also record from your system’s built in audio and/or mic. Boom Recorder is capable of exporting Broadcast Wav files [BWF] with metadata. I will be discussing this cool application on the next edition of The.Point.
-paul.
New broadcast. I mention the new Entry System I designed at Podcastrigs, and two cool inexpensive Mac applications used for video encoding and MP2 management. I also discuss similarities and differences between Bias Peak and Apple Soundtrack Pro, and why I feel both applications are necessary.
Links:
Nattress Film Effects
Marantz PMD 570
The Bitterest Pill … Vol. I
-paul.
This is an all-in-one channel strip processor by Wave Arts. Features include 10 band 64-bit eq, dual compressors, noise gate, and user defined high-pass/low-pass filters. Accurate gain reduction meters will help calibrate compression. The plug-in operates in both stereo and mono, and takes advantage of Wave Arts impressive CPU efficiency. $175 US.
-paul.
New broadcast. I discuss the great time I had at The Podcast Academy and The Portable Media Expo in Ontario California. Also, I focus on 3 issues I referenced during my sessions which have generated a good amount of interest - Quality Audio Cables, the Heil PR-40 Broadcast mic, and the MP2 file format. I also make reference to one of my favorite resources for post production tools, Digital Heaven.
Links:
SoundConverter
PRX MP2 Encoder
Horizon Audio Cables
-paul.
This is the next piece of gear I will pursue. The Aphex 250 Aural Exciter Type III is essentially the pro broadcast version of the Aphex 204, minus the optical big bottom effect. Aphex states the 250 will ‘increase loudness, calrity and presence without disrtortion or overmodulating the signal’. Also, the processor actually ‘extends’ high frequencies, inserting a single ended process that may be applied at any point in the audio chain.
-paul.
New Broadcast. I discuss a new Knowledge Base article form Apple which explains proper Timecode Frame Off Set Calibration when capturing Serial Timecode , and the in’s and out’s of Flattening Actions in Soundtrack Pro. Also, I mention Rapid Preview, a cool sound file previewer.
Links:
Nattress Film Effects
Accelerate Your Mac
-paul.
I was able to secure yet another great deal on eBay for this discontinued Aphex 109 Parametric Eq. They are often listed on eBay, and I have been keeping a close watch for one in good condition. Turns out this particular piece is new in the box, never used. The dealer is reliable and I am glad I was patient. This is a 4 band parameteric with ‘peak’ and ’shelf’ modes.
-also-
this [below] is the next piece of gear I will be on the look out for. The Aphex 722 Dominator II Precesion Multiband Peak Limiter is mainly for broadcast use, due to Pre and De-emphasis circutry. From the Aphex site:
“Pre-emphasis is an equalization curve expressed as a time value based on the ratio of a resistor and capacitor. The higher the value, the greater the equalization. It has been employed as a noise reduction technique for broadcast and transmission links. There are primarily two world standards- 50 and 75 microseconds.
The Dominator II Model 722 has separately switchable pre and de-emphasis curves. When pre-emphasis is switched in, either 50 or 75 microseconds, the equalization curve is added after the input stage and before the limiters. When de-emphasis is switched in, the complementary de-emphasis curve is inserted after the final clipper and before the output stage.
When both pre and de-emphasis are switched in, the frequency response of the output is flat. When the input is below threshold and as the input increases above threshold the output takes the shape of the de-emphasis curve”.
The 722 Dominator II creates increased loudness; cleaner sound; and is helpful in production for punchier voice-overs.
Update:
Purchased a 720 Dominator II.
It turns out the Pre-Empasis feature on the 722 is helpful when the piece is used for Radio Broadcast Transmission. I landed a 720 Dominator II last week. The seller was a pro audio dealer based in Upstate NY. It’s in great shape and I am working with Doug Kaye, who is an expert with Aphex Analog Signal Chains.
-paul.
New podcast. I discuss afforadable external storage solutions and how to export mp3 audio files from Apple Soundtrack Pro. I also mention a future review of the Heil PR-30 and PR-40 Dynamic Broadcast microphones.
Referenced external Raids:
Mercury Pro Elite
G Raid
Mini G
SoundConverter Batch sound format conversion tool
-paul.
This is a special podcast update. It has been a very busy month and I thought I’d pass along the details.
-paul.
Links:
4WebResults
Talking Portraits
Podcast Solutions
This format has won me over. Doug Kaye mentioned it may just be the ‘best kept secret for protable recording applications.’ Sony introduces the MZ-M100 Pro Recorder . It uses Hi-MD media discs with 1 GB stotage capacity. Files can be uploaded and downloaded using a PC, and uploaded to a Mac with supplied software. Tansfers can be converted into .wav file format. Inputs: USB, Mic In, Line In (analog and optical digital). $389 US. I beleive it is available for less without the supplied mic.
-paul.
I recently purchased a Sony MZ RH910. It works well, however it lacks Mac compatability. Anyone interested?
I handle the audio post production for the Tech Nation podcast, hosted by Dr. Moira Gunn on a weekly basis featured on IT Conversations. This is a weekly radio broadcast from KQED, San Francisco. If you are a podcaster, a subscriber to podcasts, or just have interest in podcasting in general, don’t miss this installment of Tech Nation featuring Doug Kaye, creator and executive producer of IT Conversations.
-paul.
The Orsis AP3 Two-Channel Digital Signal Processor is a single rack space component that features a four-band paramatric EQ, three-band compressor, tunable filters with AGC limiting and expansion. The component provides an array of digital/analog inputs and outputs, as well as DB-25, DB-9 and Cat5 connectors. Remote operation and monitoring is possible using Ethernet-enabled GUI software [Windows only]. Presets are password protected for essential customization. **MSRP $3200 US.
-paul.
Product Brochure
New Podcast. I mention FrameVault, the management tool for digital video assets by einstein’s legacy, the Inspector XL plugin suite by Elemental Audio, and Peak 5 Pro by Bias. I also discuss recording Automation Data in Apple Soundtrack Pro.
The Mackie Firewire routing bus diagram is here.
-paul.
After 4 months of patient searching I finally purchased an Aphex 320a Compellor on ebay from a radio station based in Colorado. I will be using this piece of gear mainly to process audio files while digitizing.
Besides delivering intelligent compression processing, the Aphex Systems 320A Compellor will handle leveling and peak limiting during audio content transfer. For example-audio captured during a live conference with a wide variation of peaks and levels can be routed through this processor to prepare for post production. The Silence Gate detects gaps in program material and ‘freezes’ the processing preventing noise build-up which can be quite audible in other automatic gain control devices. The gate releases instantly when the program resumes. The 320A is perfect for mic/vocal processing, broadcast pre-processing and video post audio production.
-paul.
Graeme Nattress, the creator and developer of the Film Effects plugins for Final Cut Pro joins me on this first installment of The.Point Interview Series. We discuss Graeme’s early days as a software developer as well as how to get the most out of his Film Effects plugins.
-paul.
Finally available, the Onyx 400F Firewire Interface by Mackie. This piece is essentially a 10 channel interface featuring 4 high quality Onyx Preamps with a host of other features including 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A converters, dual firewire port and channel inserts. It also offers stand-alone operation with a DSP Matrix Mixer control application. [no computer necessary]. I/O configuration: Inputs–>4 XLR, 6 TRS. Outputs–>8 TRS, 1 SPDIF, 1 MIDI. As an added bounus, Tracktion 2 production software is included. $699 US.
-paul.
A beautifly designed virtual instrument by Motu that contains everything you need to create complete orchestral recordings. Create solo instrumentals, small ensembles or full orhcestral compositions. An 8GB library of sound bites is included along with a built in convolution reverb processor to produce specific room acoustics, from simulated small spaces to majestic cathedrals. Stop by the site and listen to examples of what this plugin is capable of producing–>stunning creations for a post production workflow. [AU, RTAS, VST, DXi and MAS available]. $279 US.
Purchase Motu Symphonic Instrument
-paul.
New Podcast. I mention the latestet release of Feeder by Reinvented Software, the new audio Wave Editor by Audio-file Engineering and Radio Magazine, an interesting information resource that focuses on the professional radio broadcasting business. I discuss exporting projects using Compressor from Soundtrack Pro and creating buses in your multitrack projects.
Links:
ptfigg mix-minus diagram
Nattress Film Effects ver.2.5
Compressor support doc. A B
Soundtrack Pro support doc. A B
-paul.
New Podcast. I mention Sample Manager, the Batch Audio Processor by AudioFile Engineering and iDive, the unique digital video catalog and exploration toll by Aquafadas. I also discuss the essentials of a ‘mix-minus’ bus and recording multiple take voice-overs using Apple Soundtrack Pro.
-paul.
I am still looking around for a new set of studio monitors. Space on my work desk is an issue, and I want to make sure this does not create issues in reference to the level of quality that will work for me. Essentially I have made up my mind. The KRK Rokit Powered 5 Reference Monitor features a proprietary signature yellow woofer made of a woven glass aramid composite that delivers a tight low-end response and a soft dome tweeter for natural sounding highs. The drivers are electronically crossed over and are bi-amped for increased efficiency. All of this is housed in an attractive cabinet with radiused corners that reduce edge diffraction resulting in better audio imaging. The rear input panel features phone plug and XLR connectors to accommodate any application. They look fantastic for $149 ea. US.
-paul.
Specifications:
Drivers:
Woofer: 5 ” Glass Aramid Composite Woofer
Tweeter: 1″ Neodymium Soft Dome Tweeter with Ferro Fluid
Frequency Response: 53Hz - 20kHz
Input:
XLR (3-pin), RCA & 1/4″ TRS - 10k Ohm, Balanced / Unbalanced
Amplification: 75 Watt Bi-amp Dynamic Power, 18 dB Octave Filters
Video Shielding: Yes
Dimensions: (H x W x D) 10 7/8″ x 7 1/4″ x 8 7/8″ — 27.6cm x 18.5cm x 22.5cm
Shipping Weight: 16 lbs (8 Kg)
New podcast. I recommend the Pro-App Tips website, a great place to share information regarding Apple Pro Apps. Also I speak about maximizing your RMS levels using iZotope’s Ozone and Wave Arts Final Plug, and BWAV Reader, a handy app. by Quesoft.
Great article on the Apple Pro site entitled ‘The Tapeless Post-production Workflow’
Aja Video Drivers and new Control Panel.
-paul.
In case you are searching for ThePoint in iTunes, please be advised the podcast is listed as one word without my signature ‘period’ seperating both words!. So far things look cool. I am still reviewing the RSS requirements provided by Apple in order to meet their standards.
Update: I disabled the AAC feed for the podcast. I am trying to determine why my episodes are showing up as duplicates in iTunes. I have a feeling this may be due to iTunes pinging the AAC feed as well as the basic feed with mp3 enclosures. I am also looking into WordPress generating the duplicate listings.
Thanks.
-ptfigg.
As mentioned on The.Point no.36, I will be adding the Aphex 105 Logic Assisted Gate to the production rig. Whenever you are dealing with analog devices and microphones, noise is sure to creep into your signal path. With the Aphex 105, all you have to do is set a threshold point. With 4 channels at your disposal, you have complete control over threshold, attack, hold and release. Currently, I am using my old dbx 266XL solely as a gate [compressor dis-engaged]. The Aphex should be a nice addition here and I am expecting delivery tomorrow.
-paul.
Update:
Yesterday a Pro Rig dealer posted 6– Aphex 622 Logic Assisted Expander/Gates on eBay, all in great condition and available for immediate purchase-$250. This was my first choice in my quest for a new gate. I could not pass it up. It should be in on Friday. The list price for a new piece is $700 US. I’m not sure if I will be keeping the 105 or if I will put it up for sale.
-paul.
Use the 422 by Symetrix to create constant audio levels and intelligibility for broadcast and other audio applications using automatic gain control and peak limiting. You set the ‘target’ output level to the desired point and the 422 gently boosts signals that drop below your target, and smoothly pulls back those that rise above it. $549 US.
-paul.
New podcast. I recommend NWEQ, the free VST parametric plugin, Ask Video Interactive Media, featuring Cubase training DVD’s and the new update to Bias Peak-ver.4.14. I offer more Sountdrack Pro Tips and reference a tutorial explaining the Match EQ bundled with the application.
-paul.
The DBMax by T.C. Electronic is a full featured dynamics processor capable of multi-channel compression, equalization and limiting. The DBMax is programed with 60 presets for custom applications, and are helpful in assisting in creating a unique sound style or ’signature’ in various aspects of broadcasting applications. AES/EBU, S/PDIF and Analog outputs are all active simultaneously/ processing up to 48kHz sample rate for 24kHz audio. $3400 US.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention the Fostex FR-2 compact flash recorder as well as Control Surfaces by Mackie and Tascam. I finish up with my initial impression and review of Apple Soundtrack Pro.
New Drivers: XServe RAID ver. 1.0—AJA Video ver. 2.0b1
-paul.
I received my new FCP Production Suite this afternoon. So far I have installed Compressor 2 and Soundtrack Pro. Believe me-Soundtrack Pro is awesome! The first thing I noticed… how ’snappy’ the program is. I performed a multitrack recording test and STP is just so impressive. The learning curve will be a non-event for me I’m happy to say. I just need to study the GUI. Detailed review coming on the next edition of The.Point.
Update: I have gone ahead and installed FCP 5 and Motion 2. Everything is stable. I came across a few issues with Soundtrack loops which I took care of. Mainly, many of the newly installed loops were duplicates of original loops from the previous version of Soundtrack.
-paul.
The expandable Universal Control Surface by Mackie integrates with your virtual environment. Final Cut Pro 5, Soundtrack Pro and Digital Performer’s virtual mixers can be controlled externally with this device. As you move the faders on the Mackie Control Universal, you will see the adjustments being made on the screen and you will hear the results through your audio interface. Hence the Mackie Control Universal gives you the feeling that you are using an audio mixer even though no audio signals are actually passing through it. MCU faders are Penny & Giles custom touch-sensitive motorized optical faders with 100mm throw and 1024 step, 10-bit resolution. Various other pro audio applications are supported. [requires midi input/output interfacing] $999 US.
-paul.
The Marantz PMD570 is a pro Installation Solid State recorder. You can record directly to Compact Flash Cards with 16-48kHz sample rates and 32-384 bitrates. File formats include MP2, MP3, WAV and BWF. The component offers various methods of connectivity including balanced XLR line inputs with variable trim. Most importantly you can transfer recorded audio samples directly to your PC or Mac. The price around the web is $899 US.
-paul.
New podcast. I announce the formal release of Tracktion 2, the recording application by Mackie and Sample Manager, the batch audio processor for Mac OSX. I also make note of some of the new capabilities of Compressor 2 from Apple.
I briefly review basic features of the following recording/audio interfaces:
•Lexicon Omega Studio
•DigiDesign Mbox
•Focusrite Saffire
•Mackie Spike
•Presonus FireBox
-paul.
New podcast. I discuss my experience with Mac OSX Tiger, including installation and compatibility issues, as well as new versions of DSP Quattro, the 2 channel audio mastering/editing utility and iDive, the media cataloging utility.
-paul
I just installed Tiger on my Powerbook. Installation took 40 minutes. Spotlight indexing at first specified a 2 hour timeframe. It completed in just under 20 minutes. I purchased a new license for Quicktime 7 Pro, and viewed the H.264 trailers here. Results are stunning.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention SoudConverter, an easy to use audio format converter and the new Panasonic HVX-200 HD camcorder. Also, I discuss my post production work-flow for The.Point.
-paul.
On Sunday eve., I placed my order for the new production suite which includes Final Cut Pro 5, SoundTrack Pro, DVD Studio Pro 4 and Motion 2. I purchased all of these applications independently, and I assumed I would be spending $699 for the production suite upgrade since I had not purchased the previous bundle.
I found out this morning if you own independent versions of the apps. mentioned, you are in fact eligible for the $499 production suite upgrade. Very cool-I edited my order and saved $200. Click the pic for more info.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention the new control panel application made available by AJA Video along with Final Cut Pro 5 and Apple Soundtrack Pro.
The Quicktours for the new Production apps. from Apple are here.
-paul.
Due to the special event that I believe Apple has planned for tomorrow at NAB [Sunday], I will delay producing/posting the next edition of the podcast. Look for the.Point no.31 Sunday eve. or sometime Monday.
-paul.
New podcast. I speak about Bias Peak 5, new products from Tapco and pro broadcast gear from AKG. I discuss various options available in the Ozone mastering processor by iZotope, and Tracktion2, the audio production application from Mackie.
-paul.
I wanted to express thanks to Doug Kaye, executive producer of IT Conversations for accepting me as a member of the IT Conversations Audio Engineering Team. I will be handling the post production audio for ‘Tech Nation’, and just completed the first installment. You may subscribe here
Update: The shows are live- listen1—listen2
Thanks Again Doug.
-paul
New podcast. I recommend the Akg K141 headset and the sleek VST Plugins offered by Anwidasoft. Also, here is the press release that references the new Pro USB Interface by Digigram designed specifically for broadcast and pro audio applications.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention Ray Gun Pro, the audio restoration application for Mac OSX, ‘Mastering Audio’ a book by Bob Katz, and ‘Audio in Media’ by Stanley Alten. Also, Balanced Prolink Interconnects by Monster Cable.
-paul.
This is a community driven Podcast Production Resource Center. Categories include Production Tips, Hardware/Software Recommendations, RSS Feed Management and Classified Ads. Stop by to research various aspects of production workflow and share information.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention Flip4Mac, an application for editors to deliver Windows Media Files using Final Cut Pro, Jasmine Audio, a sleek and simple audio recorder/editor and MegaSeg dj, an application that will help produce professional quality radio track cueing and playlist management.
Effects Processor Integration article is here.
-paul.
The ProVocal Digital by dbx features a superb mic preamp, gating, compression, de-esser and limiter. Also includes various DSP effects, for eample reverb and delay. The piece offers a 24-bit S/PDIF output with selectable 44.1 or 48k sample rates, and of course 48v phantom power. MSRP. $300 US.
-paul.
New podcast. This installment focuses on various aspects of audio and podcast production. I mention Sample Manager, the cool Batch Audio Processor, Apple Computer’s entry into The Blu-ray Disc Association, and my new Mackie Onyx 1620 Mixer.
-paul.
I have been working with my new dbx 160a compressor today. At first I was a bit uncomfortable with it because the parameter knobs do not ‘lock’ on specific ‘tick’ increments. I thought this would hinder fine tuning the component. After many hours of testing, I believe I was wrong. The smooth flow of these parameter adjustment knobs makes fine tuning quite simple. Since there is no way to log presets, I photographed the front panel in case I need to revert back to my default settings. The piece sounds great and it will make its debut during the release of The.Point no.26.
-paul.
New podcast. I discuss the Saffire audio interface by Focusrite, the Firewire Extender 800 by Gefen, new software from Sony Pictures and Sheer Video HD Pro, a set of fantastic video codecs.
Check out the great articles available in the support section on the Focusrite site that reference aspects of dynamics and equalization.
-paul.
As mentioned I have been on the look out for a new compressor. My first choice was the Aphex 661. I missed one of these in mint condition on eBay a while back. I feel my audio is sounding pretty good using a $150 dbx 266XL, and it did not make sense to spend $600 plus for the Aphex, although I am sure it is well worth the money. My second choice was the dbx 160A. It retails for $400. I was lucky to grab one off eBay brand new in the box for $300. I’m quite happy and anxious to begin testing. The word is this piece is super quiet and offers cutting edge compression. I was on the phone with an engineer from dbx and he assured me this unit would perform extremely well with my current rig and will improve my audio quality.
-paul.
New podcast. I discuss the new Quicktime 7 codec and reference a pdf that explains the HE.AAC audio codec. Also, AAChoo, the slick AAC file encoder. Here is the link to an interesting article at Apple.pro.
-paul
There are a few things that I am trying to work out in reference to the availability of a new feed with an AAC enclosure. I am unable to embed the audio file into a web-page. I am not sure why the Quicktime plugin does not launch upon access. However, you can subscribe to the feed as normal and your aggregator should pick it up without a problem. The orange XML button will allow access to the mp3 enclosure as normal. Please let me know if you experience any issues. Thanks.
Update: I found an article that references the problem I was having trying to embed an mp4 [AAC] file in a webpage. It seems the host server needs to be configured for the .mp4 MIME type file. I am in touch with my host. Hopefully I will be able to solve this issue.
-paul.
FilmEffects ver. 2.0 is now available for purchase at Nattress.com. This is a set of must have filters for the serious Final Cut Pro editor which will help transform your video into footage that looks like it was shot with film. New features include a Widescreen Matte, Chroma Blur, Y’CbCr Native processing on many filters, new RGB Colour Mixer for inventive film looks and much more. The included pdf document/instruction manual is well written and extremely informative.
Film Effects was used in production of the new 40th Anniversary Edition DVD of Mary Poppins. Article
-paul.
New podcast. I mention the new external Firewire 800 RAID Array by FireWire Direct, AudioXplorer, the handy graphical sound analyzer, and the rumored enhancements for Final Cut Pro 5, expected to be announced at NAB in April.. Today’s tip explains how to highlight a specific area of a clip using the Garbage Matte video filter.
Update: Nattress releases Film Effects ver. 2.o
-paul
I am considering the publication of an alternate feed which would include an AAC file enclosure. You are probably aware of the fact that AAC audio files support bookmarks. If you stop listening in the middle of a program, you will be able to continue where you left off upon re-access. Some of the popular podcast aggregators support MP3 to AAC file conversion. Offering this alternate feed allows you the subscriber to choose which file format you prefer. I will discuss this on the next edition of The.Point, and I will be asking for feedback in reference to this issue. Please feel free to leave comments here as well.
-paul.
I have just completed production of a tutorial which introduces DSP Quattro 2. It is available here. This tutorial is a basic overview of features and demonstrates how well this application performs as a podcast production tool. Future installments will explore actual production scenarios and descriptions of advanced features.
-paul.
The Spectron effects processor by iZotope looks like a must have tool for sound designers. I am thinking that it would be quite useful for sound effects creation/processing for post production audio projects. This tool basically splits audio into thousands of frequency bands, applies effects independently to each band, and subsequently re-synthesizes the audio creating entirely new sounds. The user interface is stunning.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention the new version of Standards Conversion 2.0 by Nattress, available sample clip Catalogs for iDive by Aquafadas, and a new article posted on the Apple Pro Site that references The Sundance Film Festival’s Production Workflow. Also hear my initial review of DSP Quattro 2, the Editing and Mastering application for Mac OSX.
-paul.
Another cutting edge tool to enhance your audio workstation. The Ozone Software Mastering Processor by iZotope offers 64 bit digital precision to deliver cutting edge mastering parameters. It features: MultiBand Dynamics, Paragraphic EQ, Multiband Harmonic Exciter, Multiband Stereo Imaging, Mastering Reverb and Loudness Maximizer. You can also prepare Audio for CD with word-length reduction and high order psycho-acoustic shaped Dither. As described by EQ Magazine, “High marks for Graphic Beauty, Sound Quality and Flexibility.” I have this running with DSP Quattro 2 and they work extremely well together. The included presets will get you up and running in no time. Amazing sound quality.
-paul.
New podcast. I mention the VST compressor by Anwidasoft, the new Firmware Update for the Aja IO and IO/LA breakout boxes, various products by BlackMagic Design, and XML2Text, a handy application for Final Cut Pro XML’s.
-paul
It is not very often that I feel the necessity to post follow up comments in reference to an application that I mention on the podcast. I have been tooling with DSP-Quattro 2 for a few days and I am totally convinced this application might be one of the best deals available anywhere based on performance, available options and price. In fact in the current edition of Electronic Musician magazine, this app. was awarded a ‘5 of 5′ rating. I even emailed the support department to congratulate them for their efforts. I will be doing an extensive review on a future podcast.
-paul
This piece by Aphex is a Tube Compressor/Limiter that has some unique features. ‘Tubessence’, provides vintage tube sound, ‘Easyrider’, which automatically senses proper compression parameters based on wave forms with available bypass for manual configuration. This single channel component offers other useful features and is recommended for Music Production, Sound Reinforcement, Broadcast and Post Production. I just missed one on eBay in mint condition that sold for $175. It retails for $650.
-paul.
New Podcast. I mention the Sound Solutions Database on the Shure website, ‘Motion for Mac OSX’, the new visual quick start guide book, a new free application from AJA Video, and the slick audio editing application DSP-Quattro 2. Here is a link to the cool audio plugin that will help you monitor and maintain your incoming podcast levels at GregWalker.org
-paul
iStabilize, the Video Stabilizer for Mac OSX is now available with several new features and enhancements. Use it to remove unwanted shaky motion that camera stabilization was not able to correct. It is a stand-alone application that works independently of other software applications. The Demo is available for free. License $60.
-paul
New podcast. I discuss Lumiere HD software for HDV editing in Final Cut Pro, and the interesting article that talks about The Edit Center here in NYC. Various aspects of Final Cut Pro audio integration are discussed as well.
This site contains the article in reference to iMovie/Final Cut Pro/HDV integration. Great site recommended by Greg W.
-paul.
Besides offering classic dbx gating, compression, limiting and de-essing, this dynamics pr
