More Scope Software

This is a follow-up to a recent post about using software to mimic a waveform monitor and vectorscope. A dedicated pair of waveform monitor and vectorscope aren't cheap--for composite video, new can cost you almost $4K. I've tried buying used ones, and it is a pain. For a decent used set from a reliable vendor for composite analog video, you are looking at $1,500 easy. While I really like being able to have a dedicated display for my levels, some new software apps are worth looking into.

Hamlet Vidscope-VX a Windows-only application. I read a short plug for this recently in the Creative Cow magazine (offline only). The HD version is supposed to go for $995. The SD version for $665. Seems steep but in comparison to a dedicated waveform monitor and vectorscope it is reasonable. You'd need a host PC and capture hardware for the setup.

ScopeBox is a Mac app. This is geared toward production, but it looks like it will do a strong job of mimicing a waveform and vectorscope from the demos on their web site. $799 for HD (doesn't handle HDV), and $399 for SD.

VeeScope Live from the makers of DVDxDV comes in at $99. Again, geared toward production. I haven't tried it out, but I'm not even sure you can get a simultaneous display of vectorscope and waveform.

Adobe OnLocation CS3 part of Adobe Premiere Pro CS3 ($799 retail, under $400 nonprofit). Adobe incorporated an app called DV Rack into the new Adobe Premiere and changed the name to OnLocation. OnLocation only runs on Windows but it looks like it will come bundled with the new Mac version of Adobe Premiere.

And of course, there's always Final Cut Pro. You can also turn on the Video Scopes in Final Cut Pro to get an idea about both video and audio levels. These setups alway require a host computer that should be pretty much dedicated just to this task. And these Mac programs tend to recommend beefy systems. You also need to get video into the system. Firewire might work, but a dedicated capture card might work better too.