AVID Unveils New Video, Audio-Editing Collections
By Greg Tarr -- TWICE, 9/21/2009
TEWKSBURY, MASS. — AVID Technologies has introduced three consumer-focused editing and creation tools for home-based videographers and musicians, alike.
In video, the company’s Pinnacle video-editing group unveiled the 14th edition of the popular Studio video-editing software, dubbed the Studio HD ($49 suggested retail), joined by the step-up Studio Ultimate ($99) package and the Studio Ultimate Collection ($129), the latter offering a full range of easy-to-use, professional-level plug-ins and tools.
In audio, AVID unveiled several packages of software and hardware PC accessories designed to let consumers create a virtual recording studio at home.
All of the consumer software is priced to move at major CE chains, including Best Buy, as well as with most major online software and A/V retailers.
The Studio HD package features basic-level HD editing at a “price point between competitive offerings limited to standard-definition editing and other offerings capable of high definition,” the company said.
The software includes new ease-of-use levels. It include the standard application (no multiple DVD menus or custom key frames), but adds additional timeline overlay tracks and HD editing (including burning to AVCHD format). However, neither Blu-ray Disc burning nor a Motion titler is included.
Studio Ultimate includes a lower price point than pervious versions, DVD workflow, 5.1 digital sound, and easier graphic transitions and effects workflows than competitive applications.
Included are Blu-ray Disc burning, Dolby 5.1 free activation, a new Motion titler and two Red Giant integrated plug-ins (ToonIt and Knoll Light factory)
The Studio Ultimate Collection has a complete package of software plug-ins, green screen and Ultimate editing software, delivering an all-in-one solution for complex video editing on home movies, said the company.
The package includes a green sheet, a printed manual (in large box only), new Motion titler and six Red Giant plug-ins (Shine, ToonIt, Knoll Light factory, Magic Bullet Looks, 3D stroke, Particular).
For home-based musicians, AVID unveiled its new Pro Tools M-Powered Essential, which is billed as a simplified version of Pro Tools software designed to be included with a variety of M-Audio audio and instrument interfaces.
With Pro Tools M-Powered Essential included, M-Audio interfaces will provide a better out-of-box experience for customers, enabling them to start creating music immediately, and offering the Pro Tools software for price points starting at $100.
Hardware Bundles with Pro Tools M-Powered Essential software offer include:
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Pro Tools KeyStudio with an M-Audio KeyStudiokeyboard ($129 suggested retail). The keyboard offers 49 keys with the ability to add a full 88 key range with a slider control that raises or lowers the key range an octave.
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Pro Tools Recording Studio with M-Audio Fast Track USB Hardware ($99).
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Pro Tools Vocal Studio, with an M-Audio Music Producer Microphone ($99).
Pro Tools Essential is a light version of a product that is, at a minimum, intended for musicians with knowledge of the principals of audio mixing, AVID said.
Consumer products that are bundled with this software are intended for creative hobbyists with an interest in musical composition, editing and production
AVID will use the software to target creative youths looking for an outlet for music creation, expression and production; as well as audio enthusiasts interested in increasing their creative opportunities using tools previously found only in expensive professional software.
To capture the attention of the younger audiences targeted for its products, AVID is using social networks and real-world social spaces, such as nightclubs, to display creations made with the new tools.
