Performance
This new version offers 32-bit effects rendering. This is not a new thing in the world of PC Editors but it is new to the Vegas family. The rendering time increases, while the video preview quality goes down. And as I mentioned earlier, the multi camera feature would not cooperate with my HD footage. While I’m sure the latter is due to my system, I can’t be certain about the former. The multi camera feature is a little hard to figure out at first, but nothing that should scare you away. I mentioned that I use multiple monitors. While not required, it is strongly recommended that you do the same if you intend to use this product. There are simply way too many windows and not enough real estate on a single monitor. Use only a single monitor and you will be reaching for the Advil.
The included DVD Architect 4.5 is a very powerful and comprehensive piece of software for DVD creation. I am disappointed, however, that there is no support for HD or Blu-Ray burning. Well OK, I understand why there is no support for HDDVD (what with Sony being the creator of Blu-Ray and all). The ability to burn a Blu-Ray from the timeline is a welcome addition, but DVD Architect would allow for menus, titles, etc. I’m sure we’ll see an upgrade at some point to make this possible.
Vegas Pro 8 now features much more easily accessible tutorials, similar to those found in Photoshop and 3D Studio Max.
Value
For the money, you can’t go wrong with VegasPro 8. At $699 it may be more than some of the other NLE’s out there, but it offers an excellent bang for the buck. (And if you click on our Special Pricing link at the beginnig of the review, you'll get it for a lot less.) The features are comparable to more expensive offerings and the overall performance is great. If you already have a version of Vegas, I think Pro 8 offers enough improvements to warrant an upgrade.
Final Thoughts VegasPro 8 stands on its own against some of the more expensive options in the world of video editing. I don’t feel like I am giving anything up by using VegasPro 8.
If you take stock, I think you’ll find that out, too:
Expert and flexible editing with multi format support? Check.
HDV and 24p support? Check.
Pro level audio editing and 5.1 encoding? Check.
Well, you get the point. Is VegasPro 8 for everyone? No, but it is closer than some may think. It would take so much more time than I have to write, or you have to read, in order to cover every nook and cranny. If you want to play it safe, you can always download the demo, but I can recommend VegasPro 8 without reservation.
Ease
of Use
9.0
Depth
of Options
9.0
Performance
8.0
Value
10.0
Overall
Score
9.0
Chris White owns SIX 2-0 Studios, a Pro Tools based studio in Pensacola, specializing in music production for film, recording, editing and video post-production. He is actively involved with an orphanage in Neuvo Laredo, Mexico and has recently produced a documentary about Casa Hogar Elim and its founder. He is also composing the film's score.
