Third Monitor 4 Vid Preview Only: CRT or LCD?

Soniclight wrote on 9/7/2006, 3:18 PM
Due to my work flow -- and frustration with how Sony opens FX/ Pan/etc. windows with so much empty space and no workspace layout saving, I spend too much time resizing windows. I've got work to do and having a anxiety disablity doesn't help either.

And since most often I'm hunting for the preview under the clutter, I'm seriously considering adding a 3rd monior to my dual 19" LCD setup. Just for preview.

Very tight budget is an issue, so I trying to find a balance between what would be best and what I can afford. I hadn't planned on getting a third monitor, but so it goes.

Basic System Specs: Pentium D 2.8 Ghz. dual core., 2 Gb. DDRM2, Win XP Home.

Option A
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I still have my workhorse 19" from my old Pentium 4 system and it's got great color control (no, no "studio monitor" -- I'm not in that financial stratosphere). It would take more room and use 100W more power than a comparable LCD, but I've read that CRTs are actually better for video editing due to better color and hue fidelity.


Option B
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Get another LCD, even just a 15". It wouldn't be up to par to my 800:1/8 ms. Hyandais but since it would only carry the preview dialogue box on it, I could probably adjust it to a reasonable color correctness.

Either way, I'd have to get a new PCIExpress card for my nVidia GeoForce 6800 XT isn't SLi, and so no more monitors can be added. They're pretty cheap these days fortunately.

Option A would save me some serious dough (only need to get card).

Thanks for your input.

Comments

goshep wrote on 9/7/2006, 5:22 PM
Don't forget option C:

It sounds as if NTSC is not a major concern for you but a 13" color TV (connected via firewire) will still get you closer than either an LCD or CRT. Plus, it won't cost you for another video card either. I too am limited by a tight budget so I use the TV as a monitor. It's cheaper and there are no surprises when I cheat a little with text outside the safety zone. If it's too far outside, I'll now right away.
Bear in mind, I'm not a professional but at least this bump may catch the eye of someone here who actually knows what they are talking about. Good luck!
rs170a wrote on 9/7/2006, 7:28 PM
...no workspace layout saving...

Save your money.
Vegas has had this feature since version 5.
You can save up to 10 different layouts.

Saving layouts:
1. Arrange windows and docked windows as desired.
2. Press Ctrl+Alt+D, then release the keys.
3. Press a number on your keyboard (not the numeric keypad) to save the layout in that space.

Recalling a saved layout:
1. Press Alt+D, then release the keys.
2. Press a number on your keyboard (not the numeric keypad) to recall the layout saved in that space.

Mike
Soniclight wrote on 9/7/2006, 8:16 PM
Thanks for replies. Both are relevant, too.

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goshep,

Not sure what you mean by NTSC not being relevant, I live in the U.S. so NTSC is the way ya gotta go :) I'll think about the TV idea. In fact, I've thought of it, but mine is basically behind me and can't be moved, and it's a 27" early 80s model with all kinds of RGB and video ins and outs.

Maybe it is some form of studio monitor... But still not pratical, so I'll consider my options.

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rs170a,

Nice to know, but puzzling. I spent my first time using Sony support and the guy was reallly courteous and helpful, but said there was no such thing. I couldn't fing anything on that subject in help either. BUT...

I'll definitely try it out and report back. Long day, been on Vegas most of the day, I'm tired, etc. etc. I'll deal with it tomorrow