Scan Converter for External Playback

starixiom wrote on 2/28/2004, 1:07 PM
I know that the preferred method for an external monitor is through a Canopus unit or similar; however, I was wondering if anyone with a dual display card has tried one VGA out to the LCD and a VGA out to a scan converter? For example, you could output the preview as the second monitor, set both output resolutions to 1280*1024, then convert the second signal to be shown on TV or whatever. With the converter you have Component Out, Overscan/ Underscan, Zoom Features, Flicker Reduction, etc...? It seems like you would have a lot more control with respect to features for either the TV or Broadcast Monitor than you would have with an analog converter.

I can get a Focus Tview ProAv 1280 w/ genlock and black burst, plus RGB/Svid outputs for less than the cost of an A/D converter through Firewire scenario. I was just wondering what I'm gaining or lossing by using a broadcast quality converter vs. the firewire out method?

-Thanks
I

Comments

farss wrote on 2/28/2004, 1:16 PM
Considering that a half decent scan converter like the Sony one costs around $4K I'd seriously doubt the quality of the Focus unit. We used to have a low end one and it was VERY low end compared to the Sony.

I think the real danger here is that you're not going to see what the real image looks like, you've introduced another device in the chain so if you're trying to judge resolution and color balance you could well end up only seeing how a downconverted signal would look.

I don't have a 'studio' monitor myslef, it's coming but even when I do I'll still keep my $200 el cheap TV as well. That's what Joe Average is most likely going to be watching on. So as a final check once i've checked all the fine details on a precision monitor then I'll also make certain it looks OK on the average tele.
GaryKleiner wrote on 2/28/2004, 1:37 PM
>So as a final check once i've checked all the fine details on a precision monitor then I'll also make certain it looks OK on the average tele.<

And if it doesn't?

Gary
starixiom wrote on 2/28/2004, 3:09 PM
Well the unit that I'm looking at is intended for the broadcast/ professional market. It uses a different chipset conversion than the other Focus models you are referring to.

I just found a good deal on a second hand one from a friend of a friend and was wondering if I should take advantage because it would help it terms of options for external display. Here is a the link for those interested:

Pro AV 1280

Plus Gary brings up a good point -- What if looks good on a broadcast monitor and not the TV or vice versa. For me, I am going to use a TV for color correction and preview because that is all I can afford. My final output is going to be dvd.

Im just wondering if there is a gain or loss that im not aware of in using a converter vs. FIrewire out.