Description:
VideoWave 4 works with a variety of video formats, offering output options for VHS, DV, CD, and streaming over the Web. The interface is smart, and the workflow beautifully simple. Each task (such as editing, effects, capture, text, transitions, and output) is completed in a separate mode window readily accessed via the Mode Selector, a strip to the left of the working frame. Captured clips, stills, and sounds are stored in the library and are then selected and adjusted in the appropriate Mode window, where attributes and commands are invoked via drop-down menus. The modified clip is then dragged and dropped onto the StoryLine, a filmstrip at the top of the window, where your video project is assembled. Transitions such as wipes and fades can then be added between clips. VideoWave 4 is about as easy as digital video can get--but it's not painless. You should make sure your PC is up to the task: a compatible capture card, a quick processor, and a large-capacity second hard drive. It's also essential that it's a fast drive, either UltraDMA 100 or SCSI-2, as anything less will drop frames during capture or playback. VideoWave 4 comes with a short manual that will get you working, but doesn't go into much depth. Consequently, an Internet connection is recommended, not only to take advantage of the Web output options, but also for the inevitable troubleshooting, which can be easily done through the MGI Web site. VideoWave 4 is a powerful and elegant home video-editing solution. --John Cranmer
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