Desktop CD recording shootout
Article Abstract:
Seven CD recorders and 16 Macintosh and Windows CD mastering software packages are evaluated. CeQuadrat's $199 WinOnCD ToGo Windows software stands out for its simple interface and excellent performance. Files can be added by dragging and dropping from the File Manager, and a built-in guide shows the user the steps of creating a disc. Astarte's $699 Toast scores highest on the Macintosh platform. Files and images can be dragged from the Finder into the session-building window and customized hybrid discs are easy to create with the included Shared Hybrid template. At the other end of the scale for Macintosh software is Sony's $695 Hybrid Formatter. It suffers from a poor interface and if non-standard ISO names are used, instead of automatically converting them, it will create a disk with inaccessible files. The most impressive CD recorder is Sony's $1,999 Spressa 920. The Spressa is reliable, and developers find it simpler to support than other devices.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1995
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Picture the sound: Digidesign's PostView 3.2
Article Abstract:
Digidesign's $1,495 PostView 3.2 audio editing software functions as a plug-in for the company's Pro Tools audio workstation for the Macintosh. Pro Tools, already a sophisticated, feature-packed system, is enhanced with the addition of PostView's QuickTime movie playback and machine control features. The movie playback facility eliminates the need for the videotape recorder (VTR) after the movie has been digitized. The machine control facilities offer the advantages of slaving a VTR to the Pro Tools system if the VTR is desired. PostView's Movie Track facility appears when a movie file is opened, showing the location of the movie in relation to the audio. The product allows for a high degree of frame accuracy and can function as master or slave to any compatible deck. The software does lack a few high-end features, such as automatic dialog replacement cueing, and it is available only for NuBus Macintoshes.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1996
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The plot thickens
Article Abstract:
Media storytelling requires striking a balance between linear writing and nonlinear media. Writers need to create an exciting story that provides interesting interactive opportunities that will not lose the users. This involves limiting choices so users do not lose track of the story while simultaneously keeping track of the amount of time it takes to play through the different choices. Most game developers seek total game runtimes between 20- and 45-hours. Character development and the creation of compelling characters is essential in interactive games. Media storytellers can improve their writing abilities by reviewing stories and screenplays. Other resources include screenwriting and story development software and Web sites geared towards screenwriters and fiction writers.
Publication Name: Newmedia
Subject: Computers and office automation industries
ISSN: 1060-7188
Year: 1998
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- Abstracts: Multimedia presentation software comes of age. Dynamic design and slick software. Reel to real-video assets
- Abstracts: Software that uses the extra speed. Animator Studio adds audio, 24-bit color. 3D Studio changes are more than skin deep
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