So - - - I got Vegas 14 pro suite to work. I became adept at using most of the NewBlueFx included in the VP14 suite. I had developed a productive workflow. MAGIX technical support had helped me resolve a few issues. I was impressed.
But, I then became interested in the promise of considerable improvements afforded by Vegas Pro 15, but could not justify spending another $299 considering that I had only purchased VP14 suite a few months prior. I wrote MAGIX about my concern. I received a courteous "matter of fact" reply, stating that cost of the upgrade was the price.
But then about a month later the software notified me that the VP15 was now available for $199 with all its advertised improvements, and with NewBlue Colorfast2 and another module. So - -- I upgraded to VP15 for $199. This seemed to be a fairer deal than an upgrade for $299, I still held my nose, but did this mainly based on the prior excellent customer service.
Importantly: I then noticed that a majority of the NewBlueFx included in VP14 could NOT be authorized. I spent several hours troubleshooting the issue. I then wrote MAGIX technical support for help on the issues. I was then told that because of licensing issues between MAGIX and the NewBlueFX (NBFX), that the NBFX included in the VP14 suite could not be activated in the VP15 upgrade. I was shocked, as the NBFX were a chief reason why I originally purchased the VP14 suite. Afterall I could have continued using older versions of Sony Vegas.
For your consideration and opinions: I'd never ever before experienced a company that offered upgrades that resulted in the loss of previous functionality. I would have never upgraded had I realized that many of the NBFX would now be absent. And to my knowledge, this had not been made explicit. It makes no difference how wonderful VP15 is compared with VP14, Afterall I was already cooking along with the VP14 suite. Perhaps the VP15 would result in great improvements which I could not yet know but which I might need in the future. So, I thought - why not support the company's research? Yet, given what actually transpired - from my point of view, upgrading to VP15 had been a waste of time and money.
Unless I missed something entirely, this episode appears to constitute a lame, if not predatory, business practice on the part of MAGIX. Furthermore, customer service did not offer to make this situation right with me. This could not be merely a cultural misunderstanding. I believe the licensing issue is between MAGIX and NBFX, and not between me and NBFX. Right now, I feel both companies have jeopardized their credibility. Was MAGIX transparent in the case? Does NBFX have any role in making me whole?
Essentially, I now do not use VP15. Thus, in fact, I have made a small involuntary donation to MAGIX, I feel "played" by the company. What do others think of this situation?
I am interested in feedback from the community. I would gladly let this slide if I could understand why MAGIX believes that I should absorb its licensing problem with NBFX, It is not rational, is it?
Best, Mark