New version of Final Cut X

This morning Apple announced the release of the new Final Cut X version 10.0.3. The most notable new feature is that it includes the Multicam Editing tool, although there are also improvements in the Chroma Keyer, in the monitoring system or in the XML support.

The new multi-camera tool has the ability to handle up to 64 different camera angles (for video or photos) that can be of different formats, resolutions, codecs and frame rates. In addition, the angles can be automatically synchronized using the audio waveform (coming from the camera), timecodes or the date and time they were recorded. The latter is not entirely accurate because you would have to make sure that all cameras are set to the same date and time before starting.

If this tool really works as advertised, it will be an advantage over other editing programs.

Another improvement is the Chroma Keyer, which adds more advanced controls such as “color sampling”, “edge adjustment” and “light wrap”.

One of the most annoying aspects when FCX was released has also been improved; it is now able to support XML 1.1, which will allow it to work with other programs. In addition, for those who still have projects in FCP 7, an application called 7toX has also been released. What it does is to convert FCP 7 XML so that they can be read in FCX, adapting them to the way FCX works. Bins, sequences and projects are converted.

This application costs $9.99 and is available from the Mac App Store.

Another interesting option is the possibility of media relink, allowing FCPX to link to media in different qualities or versions generated from compositing and color correction software. Although media management was not one of the strong points of FCP7, we will have to see how FCPX does it.

In addition to XML it also supports layered Photoshop files.

The broadcast monitoring included in this version (in beta phase), allows connecting to waveform monitors, vectorscopes and also high quality calibrated monitors. This can be done using PCIe cards or through Thunderbolt I/O devices. Aja, Matrox or Blackmagic will be some of the manufacturers compatible with this system, through which we will be able to have three monitors (two work and client) on an Imac or MacBook Pro for a reasonable cost.

The new version is totally free for those who already had FCX and costs $299.99 also on the Mac App Store for new users.

Here is the link to the Apple page where you can read all the new features.