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Adobe has both good news and bad news for video editors. The good news is that Adobe’s Premiere video editing package has been significantly improved. The bad news is that Mac users will not be able to take advantage of the new and much improved Premiere Pro. Clearly the logic behind this move is to avoid duplicating the terrain conquered by Final Cut. Seeing that the Mac market is occupied, Adobe wisely chose to concentrate on the Windows arena.
The only downside is that this is not a program intended for last year’s machine. Optimized for use with the Pentium 4 Processor with Hyper Threading, this program will only run under Windows XP and not older operating systems. Considering the power needed for video editing, the move towards supporting only the latest systems makes sense.
In the past I have always found Premiere logically organized as far as the interface goes, but difficult to maneuver when seeking specific functions. The new Premiere is a much improved program in that respect. I found working with the program less of a hassle than before, and certainly more enjoyable exploring. It is hard to pinpoint exactly why this version is more intuitive, but the net result is that you will spend less time frustrated and more time creating.
For new users, Premiere Pro is a powerful program that is detailed. However, if you spend time with it, and have even a basic understanding of other programs like it, there is enough common ground to make the adjustment less than jarring. For existing users the format has changed enough to be improved but not so much so as to be alien. Adobe has finally managed to get the interface for Pro down pat. Naturally, this program still requires time spent with the user’s guide, but the rewards are worth the investment of time. Fortunately, Adobe has included a thick relatively easy to follow guide book that is a real asset. So at least you have saved yourself having to purchase a book after obtaining this very hefty application.
I was not very familiar with Premiere’s immediate predecessor, but I don’t recall Premiere supporting either DVD authoring or mini DV video until this version. Importing video from your camera to the PC is easy and direct. Plus, you can now author DVD’s from within Premier.
The one area that totally “stunned” me was the titling function. While there are many on the market, when it comes to detail and customization, Premiere Pro is still the King. Considering the roots of Adobe, that should come as no real surprise. For those that have always liked Adobe’s titling function, this one is not a disappointment.
The big selling points with Pro are some much needed improvements regarding function. The big advantage I witnessed was real time editing. Now there is immediate feedback for what has been created. I also noticed that this version appears to be much swifter regarding editing. That could have as much to do with the software as the overall greater facility the Pentium with Hyper Threading has over previous Pentiums. Also upgraded are advanced color correction, and enhanced audio editing. There is also support for WAV, WMA, MP3, AIFF and audio-only QuickTime and AVI files. As far as file support, that was the only real surprise with limited AVI and QuickTime support. On the plus side, there is full support for other Adobe Programs like Photoshop, Illustrator and the new Audition.
Unlike the very able Vegas Video, Premiere has a significant edge when it comes to effects and ease of use. When considering other value packed editing packages, it is only after careful and continued use that you realize the power and customization that Premiere Pro offers. There is really very little to find fault with here as far as serious video editing is concerned. I don’t think it is too far a jump to say that this may be the Mercedes Benz of Windows video editing. This is particularly true when Premiere Pro is purchased as a package.
Every video editing package has limits. Where some excel, others are weak. When taken as a whole, Premiere Pro is an extremely able and relatively intuitive program. In fact, it is much easier than others in its class. The only real downside for end users is that all of this power comes at a steep price. While this is an easy no brainer choice for enthusiasts, pros and those with deep pockets, this application is also the kind and type even a casual user with patience and desire can learn and gain from without fear of watching the program becoming too small for the projects at hand. The only downside is that it is not cheap. Power like this comes with a significant price tag. However, if you are totally serious, the program is extremely solid.
The big advantage that Premiere Pro has over others is the tight integration with other imaging packages within the Adobe family. When purchased as part of a suite, suddenly the program is augmented by a full fledged audio program, a total DVD authoring package, Photoshop and After Effects. When you factor in those applications, Premier becomes the glue of an incredibly powerful video editing powerhouse.
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