Hello Matthew (assuming that you're still deciding),

Nowadays, if you have a high-end computer (Fast processor(s), 512 mb of RAM or more, plenty of hard disk space, 64-256 mb of video memory, etc) your choice of platform shouldn't be a huge issue. Comparing really powerful Macs & PC's, if both are configured for intensive digital editing, is like comparing a BMW and a Mercedes. It's a waste of time as either one will provide loads of fun, and it also comes down to what you're most comfortable using. The machine, after all, is just a tool. Yes, it's true that a lot of companies utlilize Macs as a chosen standard. But all good production houses will state that your abilities as an editor is the primary concern. So long as you produce great results and get the job done, your employer or client probably won't care if you used a Mac or PC.
The flame wars between Mac and PC die-hards has gotten pretty ridiculous and childish- avoid it.

Personally, Macs are my weapon of choice. I love their software (Final Cut, DVD Studio Pro, GarageBand, etc), I like the stability of UNIX (which is essentially at the core of Apple OSX), and the higher security of Macs. They're easy to use/maintain, they're not as vulnerable to viruses as PC's, and spyware (so far) is not a problem. It's great peace of mind to not have to worry so much about the possibility of virus infection while I'm busy with a huge project.

Also, if anything on a Mac breaks there's only one company to go to: Apple! I also use Avid Xpress Pro, and so far haven't had any serious problems with it running on my machine (Powerbook G4 Titanium).

PC's, on the other hand (if you're looking to get a new one), are generally less expensive. A high-end PC will generally be easier on the wallet than a Mac, and if you're thinking of using an editing program other than AVID there are some really good ones out there exclusively for Windows. If I were you, I wouldn't forsake the PC just yet, especially if that's what you're used to. But if you're serious about getting a mac I won't stop you. They're great machines, user friendly, and easy to get used to. And of course, proficiency with both platforms is certainly a good thing.

But one more item: The processors inside Apple computers, as you may know, will be supplied by INTEL starting in 2006 (according to latest reports). So it might be a good idea to wait until then as all their software will have to be recompiled to work on the Intel chip's architecture.

Hope this info helps...

-Joe

www.harboursealpictures.com

I'm fairly sure that Avid say the minimum requirement is 1GB of RAM for Xpress Pro... I started editing on Win98 with 128MB of RAM, but wouldn't try serious editing with 512MB these days :).

Yes, you're right! 1GB IS the minimum for Avid Xpress Pro. I must have been so busy writing my last response that I forgot what the original subject was. ?:D?

Now that I think of it (with all the progress that editing software has made recently) it would be a good idea to have more than 512 mb of RAM for serious post work.

Editing on Windows 98 w/ 128mb RAM?? That must have been interesting.

www.harboursealpictures.com

Yeah, I upgraded to 256MB (and eventually 640MB) pretty quickly :).

I currently work/edit on an ABS Mayhem G2 notebook- Pentium M755 chip, 2 gigs of ram, 128 ATI mobility 9700, dvd burner, 80 gigs hd at 5400rpm.

I use Avid express dv 3.5 and to me it does seem a bit unstable. I've used PCs my whole life but I think that my next computer will be a mac. I hate to say it, because I like playing computer games, but it will be good becuase I won't have those to distract me.

If you love using PC software though you can get Virtual PC for the mac. You can configure it so that you can always use a windows desktop scenario (with the Start button etc.) and it'll work just like a PC but you'll also be able to use mac software/hardware.

Hope this was helpful.

I also heard that Avid Express DV had stability issues. Express Pro, as far as I know, is more solid. So far I haven't had any problems with it on my computer. Let us know how you like the mac, if you end up getting one 🙂

www.harboursealpictures.com

Thank you for your replies!

Matthew Sconce