Prosumer - Pro Equipment Opinions

[J3M]

Ok, I have a lot of questions, so please be patient with me (I'm putting this topic in General because I'm not sure if it belongs under any other topic area).

First, if money wasn't an issue, what do you think would be the best solution for capturing/encoding/authoring? I'm talking both hardware and software. Would you use hardware encoders, if so which brand(s)? What software would you use to get the best possible results for DVD authoring? I'm asking about getting the most professional results possible.

Second, if money was an issue, but you still wanted to get professional results when going from analog to digital (or DV to DVD) what would you use?

I've played with most of the consumer level capturing/encoding software packages, but have not used any prosumer or professional level products. If I'm going to invest some money in expensive software/hardware, I'd prefer to get some opinions before doing so.

I'd also like some opinions on equipment like professional grade SVHS players, TBC's, filters, etc.. I've compiled my own list of what I think will work well within my current budget, but I'd like to compile a list of things that I might work towards getting down the road.

If it isn't painfully obvious, I'm gearing up to start a part-time side business doing analog to digital conversion. The equipment I have already isn't bad, but it's not on a professional level. It should work well in the beginning, but I'm hoping to upgrade to much better hardware and sotware in the not-so-distant future. So, with that in mind, what setup would you use if doing this for money?

Thanks in advance for your input!

[devlynh]

I have some answers for you.
If money was no object then there are some very esoteric video I/O boards and other equipment that would do an extremely good job. However I would recommend the Matrox X.100 Xtreme. If you built a computer system around this board then the results are very good and fast. I believe that the Xtreme package comes with Premiere, After Effects, DVD Encore and Audition. http://www.matrox.com/video/products/rtx100xtremepro/home.cfm

I think you should be able to assemble a very good system for around US$5000. This would include lots of storage.

As far as VTR's go a JVC-BR622 would be a good choice as it has a built-in TBC and other features.

My brain is tapped right now but if I think on anything else I'll put it here.

Cheers,

Devlyn Hukowich

Video & Computer Geek