RESOURCES

VIDEO AND AUDIO SOFTWARE ADVICE

The editing software featured here is almost all free. However, keep in mind that free software doesn't come with the same level of support as software you pay for, and there's no guarantee that it will work as advertised. Note that where iMovie was once the only ‘free’ option for Mac users, Avid's FreeDV now runs on OS X.

VIDEO

Apple iMovie'06
Apple iMovie '06 is an excellent video editor for the Mac platform, with advanced video editing features and a lot of add-on and plug-in support. You can find more information about iMovie at Apple's iLife '06 site. Note that this software is free only if you buy a new Mac. You can purchase it, however, if you just want the software.

Avid FreeDV
Avid's free software is a taster for the full package. The interface is not the most user-friendly but there are over a dozen tutorials available from the website. Originally developed for Windows XP, FreeDV now runs on Macs on the OS X platform.

AUDIO

Pro Tools Free
A free version of the popular Pro Tools software for use with most Mac operating systems. It features eight-channel audio (voices) and 48 midi tracks. It includes graphical edit and mixer windows similar to a professional studio console. Also, it sports a fully functional midi sequencer with graphic midi editing, a large number of midi options, and allows you to import and export standard midi files. The only catch is that you will also need to download the latest Open Music System software to make it work.

Fruity Loops
Free to try but $49 to purchase, this program lets you create your own songs and audio loops. It comes with hundreds of sound effects, tweaking instruments and automated tools. It offers a piano roll, midi support and multi-out Rewire support. This version includes guitar, piano and keyboard synths, 24-bit reading, and an undo history option. Please note that it only runs on Windows.