Xara Video Pro - X2 User Guide

2 Copyright

Copyright

This documentation is protected by law. All rights, especially the right of duplication,
circulation, and translation, are reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in the form of copies, microfilms or other
processes, or transmitted into a language used for machines, especially data processing
machines, without the express written consent of the publisher.

All copyrights reserved.

All other product names are trademarks of the corresponding manufacturers. Errors in and
changes to the contents as well as program modifications reserved.

Created under licence from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double D symbol are
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

© 1992 - 2010 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

MAGIX is a registered trademark of MAGIX AG.

Other named product names may be registered trademarks of their respective owners.

This product uses MAGIX patent pending technology.

Copyright © MAGIX AG, 2008-2010. All rights reserved.

Foreword

Thank you for choosing MAGIX Video Pro X2! Your new software offers you the tools to edit
video material at a professional level, including many special functions like DVD authoring,
multicam editing, and keyframe animation.

The intuitive functionality featured by MAGIX Video Pro X2 will help you achieve great
results even after a relatively short introductory phase. Thanks to the optimal hardware
support, you can import your audio and video recordings from any source to your
computer. Cut them and optimize them; add effects, titles, and transitions. MAGIX Video
Pro X2 provides all of the detailed editing options you need for ambitious video projects.
When you're finished, you can export your projects or burn them to disc in any
conventional format.

This documentation offers you an overview from the beginning, plus a quick start with the
program. The sections at the end provide a detailed and systematic description of the
numerous functions.

Have fun using MAGIX Video Pro X2,

The MAGIX team

Foreword 3

Table of Contents

Copyright 2

Foreword 2

Support 9

Serial number 10

Unlocking MAGIX Video Pro X2 10

System requirements 11

Introduction 12

What is MAGIX Video Pro X2? 12
What’s new in MAGIX Video Pro X2? 12
Features 14
Notes for MAGIX Movie Edit Pro users 18

Quick start 20

Starting the program and orientation 20
DV recording 25
How to capture analog video 27
Video editing 29
Enriching movies 35

Workspaces 37

Activating the main screen 38
Media Pool 38
Toolbars 43
Program and source monitor 50
Arranger 53
Project folder 55
Adjusting the workspace 55
The "Burn" screen 56

Create new video project 57

Movie settings 57
New project settings or new movie 64
Load project 64
Save project 64
Save project as... 64

Video recording 65

Connect camera 65

4 Foreword

Select the recording method 67
DV cameras 67
HDV camera 72
Batch recording 73
Logging 73
Analog video recording 74
Single frame 76
Audio 78
Screen 80
Recording AVCHD 81
Edit after recording 82
Creating new movies or attaching them 83

Insert object into the project 84

Select files in the Media Pool 84
Load files 84
Loading parts of longer movie files 84
MPEG-4 import 85
Automatic scene detection 85

Working with objects 87

Select objects 87
Moving objects 87
Splitting objects 87
Edit menu 87
Duplicate objects 88
Object handles 88
Shrink or interlace videos 89
Extract sound from videos 89
Save objects separately 89
Video mix 90
Magnetic objects 90
Transitions (fades) 91
Scene overview 94
Grid and snap 95
Search for and remove ads 95

Trim Objects 96

General advice for operating both trim editors 96
Trimmer for individual objects 97
Cut trimmer 98

Markers 99

Playback marker 99
Set project marker 99
Ranges (in and out points) 100
Chapter markers 101

Scene markers 102
Ad markers 103

Multicam editing 104

Preparation 104
Source and preview images 104
Multicam edit functions 105
Synchronize video objects using the sound track 107

Titles and effects 107

3D text 107
Apply fades 107
Apply effects to objects 107
Comparison image in the source monitor 108
Video effects in the Media Pool 108
Movement effects in the Media Pool 115
Video effect plug-ins 119
Image stabilization 122
Create panorama pictures 123
Borders 124
Title Editor 124
Slideshow Maker 128
Master effects 130
TV picture 132
Audio Effects 133

Foreword 5

Animate objects 148

Preparing animations 148
Place keyframe 148
Copy keyframe 149
Display keyframes of individual parameters 149
Retroactively editing an effect's keyframes 149
Soft movement 149
Delete keyframe 150
Editing an effects curve in the object 150
Change curve shape 150
Effects curves - Additional functions 151

Add sound 152

Load and edit audio files 152
Import audio CD 152
MAGIX Soundtrack Maker 154
Tempo and beat recognition 156
Adding a sound track using MIDI songs 160
Synthesizer 162
Mixer 166
Audio effects 169

6 Foreword

5.1 Surround 169
Using DVD audio tracks 174
Scrubbing 176
Mix down of audio objects 177

Managing video projects 178

Backup copy 178
Load backup project... 179
Importing & exporting EDL files 180
Clean-up wizard 180

Options for using the final movie 182

Create playable disc 182
Export movie 182
Export audio/video 188

Burn discs 196

Preview and editing 197
Menu 198
Templates 199
Edit disc menu 200
Burn dialog for DVD player 209
Create PC show 211
Create webDVD 211

Batch conversion 212

Open batch conversion 212
Administration 212
Queued entries for batch conversion 212
Format settings for the selected conversion process 213
Shut down PC automatically after successful export 213
Start batch conversion 213

Menus 214

File menu 214
Edit menu 220
Effects (FX) 226
Windows menu 230
Help menu 232

Context menu (right click) 234

Video objects 234
Image objects 238
Transitions 243
Audio objects 243
Text objects 247
MAGIX 3D Maker objects 250

Program settings 254

Playback 254
Path settings 256
Video/Audio 256
System 258
Display templates 259
Display options 260

Problems and solutions 262

File will not load 262
Choppy or uneven playback 262
Problems and Remedies regarding the Auto Remix Assistant 262
Activation problems 263

Online functions 264

Integrated browser 264
MAGIX News Center 266
Embed Flash videos into your own web page 266

Keyboard shortcuts 268

Playback functions 268
Arranger view 268
Move view 269
Transport control in Media pool 269
Mouse modes 269
File menu 269
Edit menu 272
Effects menu 272
Window menu 274
Help 274
Edit keyboard shortcut 274

Foreword 7

Activate additional functions 276

Free activation (MPEG-2, MPEG-4, Dolby Digital 2.0 & 5.1) 276

Annex: Digital Video and Data Storage 277

Video Editing on the PC 277
MPEG Compression 277
General notes on AVI videos 278
Overview of the different disc types 278

MPEG-4 encoder settings 285

MPEG-4 285
AVC / H.264 290
AMR 295
AAC 296
Multiplexer 296

8 Foreword

Appendix: MPEG Encoder Settings 298

General settings 298
Video settings 299
Advanced video settings 300
Audio settings 300

MPEG glossary 302

Motion estimation 302
Bit rate 302
Block 302
Chroma format 302
Field 303
Frame 303
GOP 303
I frames 304
Interlace 304
P frames and B frames 305
Prediction 305
Quantization scaling 306

If you still have questions... 308

Program help 308

Index 309

Support 9

Support

If you experience any problems with your software, please contact our support team:

Support website: http://support.magix.net/contact/us

This website takes you to the MAGIX user service page; the following free offers are also
featured there:

FAQs (frequently asked questions) and general tricks and tips. In most cases, you’ll find

•

the solution to your problem here. If not, use the email support form.
Email support form: Use the special form to inform our support staff about your system.

•

This information is used to solve your problems quickly and competently. Simply fill it out
and send it with a mouse click!
Support forum: You are not alone. Perhaps other users had a similar problem and can

•

help you solve yours. Our support staff are also regular contributors.
Download section: Updates, improvements, and patches are likewise offered free of

•

charge via download. Many problems you may experience are already familiar to us, and
they can often be solved by downloading the latest patch. Besides patches, there are
also wizards for checking and optimizing your system.
Links: The links list contains the contact addresses for all of the most important

•

hardware manufacturers.

Please note: To be able to use the support, you have to register your product using the
serial number provided. This number can be found on the CD case of your installation CD
or on the inside of the DVD box.

You can also reach our support team by telephone:

UK: 0203 3183666 (Mon. - Fri., 09:00-16:00 GMT)

USA/Canada: 1-775-562-0527 (Mon.–Fri. 9 am to 5 pm EST)

Denmark: 699 18763 (Mon.- Fri. 10:00 - 17:00)
Finland (Suomi): 09 42419023 (Mon.- Fri. 11:00 - 18:00)
Norway: 210 35843 (Mon.- Fri. 10:00 - 17:00)

Sweden: 0852500713 (Mon.- Fri. 10:00 - 17:00)

You can request a free access code to the phone support hotline by using this link:
http://support.magix.net/phone. There you'll also get additional information and
explanations about phone support.

Please have the following information at hand:

• Program version

• Configuration details (operating system, processor, memory, hard drive, etc.), sound

card configuration (type, driver)

• Information regarding other audio software installed

10 Serial number

You can also contact our support team by mail:

UK/Scandinavia: MAGIX Development Support, P.O. Box 20 09 14, 01194 Dresden,
Germany

US/Canada: MAGIX Customer Service, 1105 Terminal Way #302, Reno, NV 89502, USA

Customer service & upgrades (US only)

Periodically, MAGIX offers users who purchased their software an upgrade from a previous
product to the current version. For details about an upgrade, please call us using the
following number:

Sales Department 1-305-722-5810

Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm (EST)

Serial number

A serial number is included in each product. This serial number is required for the
installation of the software and enables usage of additional bonus services. Please store
this number in a safe place.

What can a serial number do?

With a serial number your MAGIX Video Pro X2 is clearly assigned to you and only you. This
way improved and more targeted customer service is made possible. Abuse of the
software can be prevented with a serial number, which ensures that optimum the
price/performance ratio continues is guaranteed.

Where can the serial number be found?

The serial number can be found on the reverse side of your CD/DVD case. If your product
is packed in a DVD box, then you'll find the serial number on the inside.

For the versions that have been especially optimized for the Internet (download versions),
you'll get your serial number for activating the software directly after purchasing the product
via email.

When will you need the serial number?

The serial number is required when you start or register MAGIX Video Pro X2 for the first
time.

Note: We explicitly recommend registering your product (free), since only then are you
entitled to download updates and use MAGIX support (view page 8) services.

Unlocking MAGIX Video Pro X2

After MAGIX Video Pro X2 has been installed and the serial number has been entered, the
software can be used for 30 days. After these 30 days have expired, MAGIX Video Pro X2
must be activated.

System requirements 11

System requirements

For Microsoft® Windows® XPTM / VistaTM / 7

• Intel® Pentium® IV or AMD® AthlonTM, 2 GHz or higher

• 1 GB RAM

• 1 GB free hard disk memory and a DVD drive for program installation

• Graphics card with a screen resolution of at least 1024 x 768

• Sound card (multi-channel sound card recommended for surround sound editing)

Minimum requirements for HD editing

• Intel® PentiumTM IV 3 GHz with hyperthreading, or dual core with at least 1.3 GHz

• 2 GB RAM

• DirectX

Recommended configuration for AVCHD editing

• Intel® CoreTM 2 Quad with 2.83 GHz

• 3 GB RAM

• ATI Radeon HD 3000 series or higher with 512 MB VRAM

®

9.0c compatible graphics card, min. 128 MB graphics card memory, and

Pixelshader 2.0, ATI X300 or higher, NVIDIA GeForce 6600 or better

TM

12 Introduction

Introduction

What is MAGIX Video Pro X2?

MAGIX Video Pro X2 is a professional video editing program for Windows PC systems.
High-performance, native HD editing, DVD authoring with up to 8 audio tracks, or keyframe
animation with Beziér curve control is directed at users with higher standards.

The program is clearly divided into intuitive modules. Videos, photos, and audio from a wide
range of sources can be transferred from various devices to PC. Longer movies can be
automatically separated into chapters or scenes. You can also do the opposite and
combine individual recordings to make a single movie.

Once your video is finished, you can use it in different ways: Transfer it back onto the tape
or to your camcorder, export it in any conventional format, or burn it directly to Blu-ray,
DVD, or another format of disc.

What’s new in MAGIX Video Pro X2?

Improved file import

MAGIX Video Pro X2's support of video formats has been improved, and new formats have
been added.

• For DVD videos, multiple audio tracks, or the corresponding

audio track (view page 84)

may be selected.

• OGG and MP3 are now read directly; conversion to the WAV format is omitted. To
import DVDs with multiple audio tracks (e.g. multi-lingual videos), the corresponding
audio track can be selected via the context menu for the respective audio object.

Creating backgrounds

Media Pool (view page 42) features useful templates for various applications. For

The
example, there are professional backgrounds for measurements, but there are also special
templates with more creative freedom and adjustable color schemes.

Performance test for your PC during AVCHD import

A performance test has been integrated into MAGIX Video Pro X2 for loading AVCHD
videos. This tests whether your computer is powerful enough to edit AVCHD material
directly.

Revised MAGIX MovieShow Maker

MAGIX Slideshow Maker (view page 128) has been completely revised. Effects and fades
can now be set and adjusted in detail. This program is accessible via "Edit -> Wizards ->
Slideshow Maker".

Object zoom

Activate this mode and click on an object to zoom in for detailed editing. This allows
individual drum hits in a loop to be edited in a very detailed way or cut. Select the object

Introduction 13

and then you will see a button with four arrows pointing outwards on it in the lower right
section of the Arranger. Click this button again to reset the view to the original settings.

Scrubbing

Scrubbing (view page 176) originates from the time of tape machines and provides quicker
monitoring of passages of a film or piece of music. This was technically implemented in
these devices by keeping the tape head on the tape itself, but the motor doesn't drive the
tape rolls in this case. Instead the tape is "manually" set to the desired position. Scrubbing
in MAGIX Video Pro X2 is available beneath the transport controls via a large wheel, which
may be used to move the playback marker.

Audio effects animation in the Media Pool

Audio effects can also be animated in the Media Pool in the same way as video effects.
Automation curves that were normally difficult to draw can now be set and changes be
made with just few keyframes. Because these curves are object-related, the entire
arrangement remains clearly laid-out even with complex automations. The button for
animations is located in the Media Pool (like video effects).

Improved video upload

Video uploads to video portals and communities (view page 218) can now even be done in
HD quality, and in most cases, without recalculation on the video portal or community
website. Upload functions are accessible via "File -> Internet".

Revised DVD menu design

The DVD menu design function has been generally revised. You can access this option
directly via the "Burn" button.

New Title Editor

Titles, text, opening and end credits are now written directly in the preview monitor so that
you can see exactly where your titles will be positioned right away. Click the "Title" button in
the Media Pool, select a template and place it onto the track via drag & drop. You may now
edit your titles in the preview window.

Additional new MAGIX Video Pro X2 features

• Secondary color correction for impressive color effects

• Level display for audio file import

• Extended jump markers for improved project navigation

• Creation of colored surfaces/color scroll generator

• Upload videos to Vimeo

• Travel route animation

• MAGIX Music Editor with optimized user guidance

• Advanced support for Blu-ray and AVCHD discs

• Timeline zoom for individual objects

• 3-point cut

• Faster and improved direct support of Video DSLR (Canon 5D, 7D, etc.)

• Time code rendering direct into video

14 Introduction

• Direct support of VST audio plug-ins

• Direct entry of a desired target frame rate for easy up/down video clip speed adjustment

Features

Recording

MAGIX Video Pro X2 provides the following recording options:

DV cameras: Mini DV camcorders or DV video recorders

•

• HDV cameras: HDV1 and HDV2 camcorders

Video: Analog TV, video input, VHS recorders, webcams

•

Single frame: Single and series images from webcams, video recorders, video cameras,

•

or TV cards
Audio: Microphones, cassette recorders, MiniDisc players, turntables

•

Screen: PC monitor

•

Analog capture requires capture cards compatible with DirectShow. DV capture can be
performed through an OHCI-compatible IEEE 1394 host adapter (FireWire or iLink). A TV
card can be used to record programs from TV or from your video recorder.

There is no limit to the length of your recordings. Now you may record video as long as
there is available space on your hard drive. Using real-time compression during capture
creates smaller file sizes and more available space.

Import/Export file formats

Video files: Video files in the video formats for Windows and DV-AVI type 1/2 (*.avi),
MPEG-1 and 2 (*.mpg,*.mp2,*.MPEG), QuickTime (*.mov), MAGIX video (*.mxv), Windows
Media, VOB streams from DVD (when unencrypted), AVCHD (only import), MPEG4 (*.mp-

4), XDCAM files (Sony PMW-EX4).

Audio files: Wave, MP3 (Windows Media Player 10 or higher required for export), WMA,
OGG Vorbis, MIDI files, and audio CD tracks.

Graphic files (for slideshows or as a still behind a scrolling title): Windows bitmaps (BMP),
JPEG, GIF, animated GIF, PNG, Adobe Photoshop (PSD), Tagged Image File Format (TIFF).

Text files in RTF format: You may enter texts, such as credits with any formatted text and
save them in universal text format (.rft). Loading such text into MAGIX Video Pro X2 creates
a title object.

Notes:

AVI video files in DivX™ format can only be imported with the corresponding codec
installed! The DivX codec can be downloaded from www.divx.com.

The QuickTime library has to be installed to import QuickTime files (*.mov).

Introduction 15

Additional export formats: In addition to the above-mentioned audio and video formats, the
following formats can also be exported: RealMedia™, BMP, Snapshot function (export any
film motif as a bitmap or JPEG file). In addition, MAGIX Online Album can be used to create
a Flash video. The video to be uploaded to the MAGIX Online Album will be exported in
Windows Media format, and from there it can be exported as a Flash video.

Note: To import and export AVC and MPEG-4 files, the MEPG-4 codec must first be
activated (view page 275). A dialog will open if the codec is required.

AVCHD standard support

Files from AVCHD cameras can be either read directly or imported. Newer computers are
capable of decoding and playing this format in real-time.
MAGIX Video Pro X2 does a performance check in order to make sure that the computer
has enough computing capacity. If the check indicates that the computer is insufficient,
AVCHD material is transformed into a MPEG-2 file to allow older systems to edit it, too.

Note: To import AVCHD video, the camera drive must be installed even if you are working
with portable media (8 cm DVDs, SD memory card, etc.). Reason: AVCHD cameras use an
improved UDF file system which Windows can't handle without the driver.

AVCHD Lite

MAGIX Video Pro X2 now also supports the AVCHD Lite standard, which is used by digital
cameras for recording video (among other things).

AVCHD activation details

Attention: For AVCHD support, Dolby Digital Stereo and the MPEG-4 codec must be

activated. To convert AVCHD videos to MPEG-2, the MPEG-2 codec must be activated.

Burnable disc formats

• 1:1 copies of DVDs & (S)VCDs

• Double-layer DVDs

• VCDs (MPEG-1 on CD-R)

• S-VCDs (MPEG-2 on CD-R)

• DVD (MPEG-2 on DVD)

• miniDVDs (MPEG-2 on CD-R)

• Blu-ray Discs

• AVCHD disc to DVD and Blu-ray

• Project backups and backup copies

Program and source monitor

MAGIX Video Pro X2 offers two video monitors for transport control which can be used
independently. The program monitor shows the current project in the Arranger, the source
monitor offers a preview for file import from the Media Pool.

16 Introduction

Project folder

The project folder is for storing your material. It's useful for preselecting the necessary
media for your current project. Use it to store video, audio, titling files, and even edited
versions or sections of films for use later in your projects.

Savable window layouts

MAGIX Video Pro X2 offers a flexible user interface which allows windows to be adjusted for
any working situation. Both preview monitors can be enlarged to fullscreen and moved
around, e.g. to use multiple monitors more effectively. Even the project folder, the Arranger,
and the Media Pool can be scaled and moved as a separate window.

Effects

MAGIX Video Pro X2 offers numerous effects and effects settings options as described in
detail in the chapter "Effects and titles". A short overview:

• Every object (every video, every single scene, every photo, and every audio recording)
can be provided with its own individual effects combination. Every effects combination
can be saved separately so that you can use it later on different objects. Right click the
object and choose the "Save video effects" option in the context menu.

• Video effects are selected and set up in the "Effects" folder in the Media Pool. Most
effects allow "keyframes" to control their behavior. The current settings only become
effective beginning with the first selected keyframe. The next keyframe activates the
settings present at that keyframe. The area between two keyframes approximates the
corresponding effects settings ("tweening").

• Video effects can be controlled using effects curves. A curve is shown in the video's
object display which controls the application of the effect; the higher the curve, the more
intense the effect. Keyframes are indicated by curve handles, and these can be
manipulated as desired. For every curve handle, Bezier handles can be generated to
create harmonic curves and effects automations.

• Effects presets are standardized effects configurations for the most important cases.
They can be used via drag & drop; just hold down the mouse button and drag the
selected effect from the Media Pool to the desired object - finished.

• The effects mixer (”Slide FX”) combines or interweaves an assortment of recordings to
create a complex visual arrangement. To execute this effect, simply drag the transitions
to the space between two videos.

Title effects with MAGIX 3D Maker

The title editor features the MAGIX 3D Maker 3D program for especially high-quality 3D
subtitles and texts. The title editor opens when a title template is dragged from the "Title"
folder onto the track. The title editor provides access to MAGIX 3D Maker via the "As 3D
title..." button.

MultiCam editing

MAGIX Video Pro X2 enables multiCam editing for up to four cameras. The different camera
recordings can be played back in sync and edited together for a single version.

Batch conversion

Introduction 17

Time-saving conversion of multiple movies and videos in a single target format via
conversion

(view page 212) is available under "File".

batch

Batch capturing

When video material is imported from digital sources (miniDV cameras, DV video recorders,
HDV cameras), scenes which you would like to use can be selected first and cut at once.
To save space, HD files can be converted directly into MPEG format.

Color correction

MAGIX Video Pro X2 offers

3-way color correction (view page 110) for optimizing poor or
incorrectly exposed videos. Color correction can be found in the Media Pool under
"Effects".

HD audio support

MAGIX Video Pro X2 supports audio formats that conform to Intel's High Definition audio
standard for sound cards. This means that MAGIX Video Pro X2 can be used to produce
stereo signals at a sampling rate of 192kHz (32-bit) and 8-channel signals at a sampling
rate of 96kHz (32-bit).

DVD authoring with up to 8 audio tracks

You can set your DVDs up with up to eight audio tracks. This is especially useful for
creating multilingual DVDs or DVDs with different sound formats (5.1 Surround, stereo).
More information about creating different audio tracks can be found in the chapter "
tracks

(view page 174)".

Audio

Synchronization with external devices

MAGIX Video Pro X2 features synchronization with external devices via MIDI or SMPTE
(master or slave).

Support of "Shuttle Pro V2" and "Shuttle Express" from Contour

For easy work, an easy preset has been created that enables controlling MAGIX Video Pro
X2 with "Contour Shuttle Pro V2" and "Contour Shuttle Express" quickly and efficiently.

MAGIX Soundtrack Maker

If you need a soundtrack, MAGIX Soundtrack Maker offers a massive selection of suitable
sounds for background music in different variations, from "funky" to "easy listening" –
simply add music to your movie project. The result is real movie background music with
changing moods to perfectly match your images.

Multimedia editable DVD menus

The program includes many DVD menu templates (for chapter selection, etc.) for projects
intended for TV, and some are also in 16:9 widescreen format. They can be easily inserted
during the burning process to give the DVD a professional look.

18 Introduction

Every menu template can be customized with your own photos, thematic animations, 3D
titles, sound, intro videos, etc. Write with flowers if your video takes place on a meadow, or
with clouds if you’ve flown somewhere. A lovingly created menu always makes a great
impression. It's your video's calling card.

Media library

A license-free media library including music, video, and graphics files is included for free
use and combination. All files are clearly arranged on your DVD in a well-arranged structure.

Tip: For additional multimedia content, you can also browse the online media catalog
Catooh by clicking "File -> Internet".

Additional features

• Automatic scene recognition: Long films are divided into shorter scenes as they are
imported or retroactively.

• Metadata logging during recording

• Import of non copy-protected DVDs, including all audio tracks and chapter markers

• Master audio level display on the timeline

• Alpha channel support for AVI videos

• Sample-exact positioning for audio objects on the timeline

• Project-transfer from professional audio programs Samplitude or Sequoia via EDL

interface

• 6-channel PCM Surround on Blu-ray Discs

Notes for MAGIX Movie Edit Pro users

For users who are used to working with MAGIX Movie Edit Pro, the user interface can be
switched to the "classical" Movie Edit Pro view via "File -> Settings -> Basic settings". Also,
when the program is launched for the first time, a selection dialog appears for choosing
settings from either "Movie Edit Pro" or "Video Pro X".

Only those program settings will be changed that can be changed via "Menu -> Settings ->
Program". In the "

Program settings (view page 254)"chapter in this manual, you can learn

more in detail about the individual settings.

For everyone who has never used MAGIX Movie Edit Pro, we recommend using the "Video
Pro X" mode. This operational mode provides the most options.

The following provides a detailed overview of the differences between the operational
modes:

Video monitors

• "Movie Edit Pro" mode only has a preview monitor which is used for both program and
source monitor. When the project is stopped, files can be selected in the Media Pool and
played back with the transport control. To play back the arrangement again, the Arranger
has to be clicked first.

• "Video Pro X" mode provides two preview monitors, one program monitor for previewing
the project in the Arranger and a source monitor for previewing files in the Media Pool.

Introduction 19

Both preview monitors have different transport controls for separate control of the
preview in the Media Pool and playback of the project. More information about the
preview monitors can be found in the corresponding section of the chapter "
objects into the project

(view page 50)".

Inserting

Keyboard layout

The preset keyboard shortcuts are different and can be displayed in both modes via "File ->
Settings -> Keyboard shortcuts". MAGIX Video Pro X2 also allows familiar shortcuts from
Movie Edit Pro to be loaded if they are easier to work with. More information about
keyboard shortcuts can be found in the chapter "

Keyboard shortcuts (view page 267)".

Loading files

• In "Video Pro X" mode, files are dragged (drag & drop) to the desired position in the
Arranger or loaded via the commands from the insert menu. For more about commands
in the insert menu, read the section "

Insert modes (view page 45)" in the chapter

"Workspaces".

• In "Movie Edit Pro" mode, files can also be loaded form the Media Pool by double-
clicking them. Videos and image files are placed in the first track at the location of the
playback marker, and the associated sound track lands on track 2. If another object is
already there, then the new object will be appended behind the last object on the first
track. Titles appear on tracks 3 and 4, and additional audio material on track 5.

Space bar behavior

Both modes allow playback to be started by pressing the space bar. Pressing the space
bar again has different effects depending on the program version:

• In "Movie Edit Pro" mode, the playback marker is placed at the last stop position.

• In "Video Pro X" mode, the playback marker is kept at the current position. This

corresponds with the functionality of a tape recorder when stopped.

Note: Playback behavior can be switched via the dialog under "File -> Settings ->
Program" and then the "Playback" tab.

Project folder

• In "Movie Edit Pro" mode, the project folder is not available.

• In "Video Pro X" mode, the project folder is a separate window on the right side of the

screen for intermediate storage or combination of any kind of project material. You can
drag files from different Media Pool folders or edited objects from the Arranger to the
project folder. More information about this can be found in the section "

Project folder

(view page 54)" in the chapter "Workspaces".

Note: In the following chapters of the documentation, we will suppose that the program is
operating in "Video Pro X" mode. If you want to operate the program in "Movie Edit Pro"
mode, then deviations may result from the processes described here. You can switch the
basic settings at any time via "File -> Settings -> Basic settings".

20 Quick start

Quick start

This chapter explains the basic functions of MAGIX Video Pro X2 with a step-by-step
introduction. A systematic description of the program functions can be found in the
chapters and in the extensive PDF manual.

Tip: Open the tutorial video and the "Quick start" tutorial by clicking the "Help" menu.

Starting the program and orientation

Once you have installed MAGIX Video Pro X2, start the program from the Windows® Start
menu.

Start dialogs

When you start MAGIX Video Pro X2 for the first time, multiple start dialogs will be opened.
For MAGIX Movie Edit Pro users, a special dialog option is offered to select either the
"Movie Edit Pro" or "Video Pro X" interface. If you have upgraded from MAGIX Movie Edit
Pro and are interested in the differences between the different interfaces, then please read

Notes for MAGIX Movie Edit Pro users (view page 18)". We basically recommend using

the "
the program with the Video Pro X interface, since this offers the most options. Over the
course of this manual, we will assume that you have selected this interface (you can switch
the basic settings at any time via "File -> Settings -> Basic settings").

In the next dialog, you can decide if you would like to "Load an existing project" or "Create

new project". Under "Options", you can "Create a new project folder". All data that

a

longs to the movie will be saved

be in this folder.

Quick start 21

e're still at the very beginning, so let's stick with keeping an overview of everyW thing. Click

"OK" to end the dialog and continue.

Selecting, loading, and playing videos

e program's functions. th

In the beginning, it's probably best to load a video file for test purposes and to get to know

22 Quick start

• The Media Pool appears to the top right; this is a file manager which displays all usable
files (besides movies, also photos, images, audio files, and even RTF text files for
captions) in the current folder.

• The navigation functions exactly the same way as other file managers: folders can be
opened by double-clicking them. The arrow keys jump a step ahead or back in the folder
structure. You can also have a folder tree and all of its branches displayed.

• All of the files in the file list can be loaded and used. Find a video file, e.g. in the format
*.mpg, *mxv, or *.avi.

• In the upper-left area, you will see two preview monitors.

Quick start 23

• The left "program" monitor is responsible for playback of objects in the Arran
right "source" monitor displays a pre

• In order to be able to play back movie files from the Media Pool in the right source
monitor, double-click the file in the file list first. Double-clicking loads the file in the
monitor first.

• To play the video, click the play button on the transport control under the
source monitor to the right..

• This method lets you select and play back different video files. Drag the selected file
down the mouse button) from the Media Pool down into the arranger. An object app
at the location on the track where you release the mouse
file.

view of files in the Media Pool.

button to represent this video

ger. The

(hold
ears

24 Quick start

• Each object can be moved in any way in the Arranger with the mouse, i.e. horizontally
a track as well as vertically between tracks. Drag the video object on the first track all
way to the left to the beginning of the track.

on

the

Note: If the video also has a sound track available, then a corresponding audio object will
appear underneath it on track 2. Both objects are connected as a group.

• Now that the first file has been loaded into the Arranger, it can be edited, cut, and
exported. Other files can also be loaded onto the tracks to combine movies, audio files,
and photos.

• To play back the Arranger, click the play button on the transport control under the
program monitor to the left.

Tip: An even easier way to do this is by pressing the space bar on your keyboard.

• During playback, a vertical line will move across the Arranger, i.e. the playback marker
that displays the current position. You can reposition it by clicking at different locations
as desired.

Quick start 25

• You can also define playback ranges, e.g.
playback
point, i.e.
marker will appear to indicate the out point of the playback range. The length of the
playback area is shown in the center of the section display.

marker. Clicking in the timeline ab

the start point of the playback range. If you right click further on, the end

to freeze a certain position independent of the

ove the first track lets you define an end

• The in and out points can be moved with the mouse. Left-clicking positions the "in"
point, and the right mouse button sets the "out" point.

• To play back the range, click the "Play back range" button on the transport
control under the program monitor.

Now you know how to load and play back media files in different ways. Would you like to
try to make your own movie now?

• If you want to continue with your own movie project instead of the demo, select the
"New movie" option from the "File" menu and read the next chapters of the tutorial on
analog/digital video recording.

• If you wish to continue working with the test file, simply skip the following recording
tutorials and begin rea g the "Video editing" section

din .

DV recording

• Connect the DV device (DV camcorders or DV video recorders) to your PC. Switch the
device's operating mode to "Video recorder" or "Playback".

26 Quick start

• To open MAGIX Video Pro X2's recording dialog, click the red "Record" button on the
transport control under the source monitor.

• Select "DV camera" from the recording dialog. Uncompressed DV capture requires
approx. 220 MB per minute of video. If you would instead like to record using the m
space-saving MP
option.

• This opens the actual recording dialog. Check to see if a DV camera driver has been
selected.

• Name your recording. It's worth choosing a logical name which will allow you to find it
easily again on the hard drive.

• You can access the appropriate place on the camcorder ta
control buttons: shuttle forwards, backwards, and start/stop playback. To start
recording, click the "Record" button. Keep an eye on the remaining hard-drive space.

• Cease capturing with the "Stop" button and exit the record dialog.

Tip: In the DV recording dialog, you can set clips from the DV video which will then be
recorded one after the other (batch capturing).

EG format, then you should first activate the "Record DV as MPEG"

pe by using the remote

ore

Quick start 27

How to capture analog video

1. Wiring

Connect the video out of your DVD or VHS recorder to the video in (TV, video or video in
graphics card) of your computer, and the audio out to the audio in on your sound card.

Due to the variety of device configurations, it is difficult to say which cables function best
with your setup. If you’re not sure, check the manual of your VCR or your TV, video, or
graphics cards.

Example:

Europe: Many VCRs and DVD players have a SCART, 3 RCA (2 for stereo sound, 1 for

video), or S-Video/optical audio line out. In such case, you will need a SCART to RCA
adapter, a cable with 3 RCA jacks, or an S-Video cable.

North America: Many VCRs and DVD players have a 3 RCA (2 for stereo sound, 1 for
video), or S-Video/optical audio line out. In such case, you will need a cable with 3 RCA
jacks, or an S-Video cable.

SCART/Cinch adapter SCART/Cinch adapter

with 3 RCA jac

card audio in, you will need a stereo RCA / mini phone plug adapter.

Therefore, you will most likely have to buy a cable with 3 RCA plugs and a stereo cinch/mini
jack adapter from your local supplier.

ks phone jack adapter

Stereo RCA/mini

t to the sound Most sound card inputs are mini phone jacks. To connect the VCR audio ou

28 Quick start

2. Program start and record

• To open MAGIX Video Pro X2's recording dialog, click the red "Record" button on th
transport control under the source monitor.

e

• Select "Video" from the record dialog. If you would like to burn your video directly to a
DVD, then first activate the box "Burn directly to DVD".
This opens the • actual recording dialog. In the record dialog, select the appropriate driver
for your video and audio cards (if you have more than one installed). A video preview
window is now displayed.

• Name your recording. It's worth choosing a logical name which will allow you to find
easily again on the hard drive.

• Start recording now by pressing the "Record" button in the dialog and end it by pressin
the "Stop" button. Pay attention to the number of "dropped frames": If you get a readin
of more than 10 dropped frames per minute, then reduce the video quality to prevent
your PC from overloading.

• Cease capturing with the "Stop" button and exit the record dialog.

it

g

g

Quick start 29

Video editing

meline mode Ti

All editing is done in the Arranger. Your movies are displayed according to time in
"Timeline" mode, i.e. the longer the representative object in the track, the longer the
associated movie.

H f

andles: All objects can be shortened by moving the mouse to one of the lower corners o

th s

e object until it turns into a stretch symbol. You can now stretch the object as much a

yo

u like. At the top corners of every object, you’ll find two fade handles that can be

ad e

justed to fade an object in or out. The handle at the top center can be used to adjust th

vo

lume of audio objects and the brightness of video objects.

Selection: For advanced effects editing, the objects must be selected first. Each object can
be selected by clicking it. Objects will change color to show that they have been selected.
Multiple objects can be selected by holding down "Shift". You can also click and drag out a
rectangle to select multiple objects. All objects included in the rectangle will be selected.

30 Quick start

Editing effects: Selected objects can be edited with the effects from the Media Pool.

e settings for each effect can be made directly in the Media Pool. Most effects are

Th

ntrolled with keyframe animations or effects curves. The intensity of the effec

co t is
controlled dynamically via individual points (keyframes) or via a drawn curve (effects curve).

frames or effects curve animations can be found after the effect is Every button for the key

selected in the lower area of the Media Pool.

Note: To activate an effects curve, an initial keyframe must be set first.

Video mix (chroma key): You can mix two videos as foreground and background images.

The video on the lower track makes up the background, a video on the track above it
makes up the foreground. Backgrounds are us
foregrounds are usually people or objects that are captured in front of single-color surfaces.
If you have, for example, a recording of a dancer as the foreground in front of a blue are
a und

nd a lake as a background, then drag the background lake to a track and the foregro

da eneath the other. Now

ncer to the track beneath it and arrange it so that one is directly b

select the lower object and open the "Effects" tab in the Media Pool. The item "Chro
k nd

ey" is available under "Video effects". Select the background color of your foregrou
video and you will already see the video-mix result in your monitor – the dancer dancing on
th

e lake.

C

ontext menu: The context menu also offers a series of editing options for objects. You

ca

n open it by right-clicking on an object. Different trim editors can be opened which

en

able an exact cut with different transition parameters (for example). For video objects,

there is another context menu.

ually landscapes or animations, whereas

a

ma