Apple Keynote From NAB 2007

The Apple event is underway. The Apple store just went down, something new is being added!

Looks like Apple is releasing Final Cut Server...It's $999 for 10 concurrent users; $99 a seat. Pay $1999 for unlimited concurrent users. Editors now have the ability to share video with each other. Features include media asset management, templates, workflows, keyword search for videos, and access control.

Apple is introducing Final Cut Studio 2. Final Cut Pro is version 6, and introducing ProRes 422. Has uncompressed 10-bit compression at standard definitin file sizes. Capable of compressing full raster HD quality video from 1TB to 170GB.

AJA I/O HD works with Apple's ProRes, featuring codec embedded right inside the hardware. The 10-bit 4:2:2 video lets you edit HD and up/down convert HD right on your Macbook Pro. Price tag is $3495!

New compression format, ProRes422 enable 4K video with the RED camcorder, shooting in 4K.

Final Cut Pro now features Open Format, basically allow you to mix different formats, resolutions and even mix frame-rates on the timeline.

Soundtrack 2 allows surround mixing in a single project, intuitive panner with automation, surround sound plug-ins with library of over 1000 music tracks and sound effects in 5.1.

Final Cut Studio 2 price is still only $1299. Upgrading to FCS2 cost $499 or $699 upgrade for any version of FCP from the beginning. Final Cut Studio is available next month.