Recommended computer to get for digital video processing?

Hi everyone

somewhat of a beginner here

I'm planning on getting a Canon 5D Mark II, and I think I'll need a new computer to go with it for video processing. I don't think my 3 year old Macbook is cut out for it!

What kind of system does you guys recommended or enjoy using? I mostly use Final Cut Pro and I plan on getting a Mac Pro, but just wondering if anyone had recommendations for system requirements or features worth investing more in.

In my experience you just need a fast computer with a lot of RAM. A good video card helps if you're going to do video processing (not really a big concern for normal image processing). It's sort of pointless to name particular computer series etc; you just need one with great specs. I don't know if Final Cut Pro takes advantage of multi-core CPUs or not, but would probably be a good idea to go with at least a duel-core if not triple or quad.

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Originally Posted by dreamerofdreams

Hi everyone

somewhat of a beginner here

I'm planning on getting a Canon 5D Mark II, and I think I'll need a new computer to go with it for video processing. I don't think my 3 year old Macbook is cut out for it!

What kind of system does you guys recommended or enjoy using? I mostly use Final Cut Pro and I plan on getting a Mac Pro, but just wondering if anyone had recommendations for system requirements or features worth investing more in.

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The video systems I am seeing these days have two monitors at a minimum. Lots and lots of 1TB or larger fast drives (Firewire or SCSI interface) and they are chocked full of memory. 8Gb seems like a 'starting' point for serious video.

The other consideration is a target output device. This may be as simple as a 1080p HDTV with DVi or HDMI interface or it might be something 'fancy'.

For lots of work a pen or touch pad input instead of just a mouse also seems to becoming a requirement. The minor amount of editing I've done was much easier to make the clip selections and adjust the transitions by dragging and tapping on an editing pad than with a mouse.

Thanks.
Yes, more RAM would be nice, though expensive. I'll probably get a Mac Pro as I like Macs quite a bit.

A touch interface is a great idea, I should totally look into that.
Any interfaces that you've enjoyed?

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