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Creative COW Reviews

COW Library : Reviews
Adobe After Effects
Kurt Murphy looks at Zaxwerks Invigorator Training: Vol 1 Kurt Murphy looks at Zaxwerks Invigorator Training: Vol 1

Broadcast designer Kurt Murphy has been using After Effects since it went by the name of CoSA, but even then, Kurt found its one big drawback was the inability to create true 3D objects in 3D space. That is until Zaxwerks Invigorator came along. And now Zaxwerks Invigorator Training (Volume 1) by Serge Hamad is the perfect solution to get up to speed using this plug-in.

Review
Author: Kurt Murphy
Adobe After Effects
On Set Keying On Set Keying

In this article Creative Cow Leader Andrew Shanks plans to go through some of the software options for checking greenscreens on set (Lensfeed, Veescope and Conduit Live).

Review, Feature
Author: Andrew Shanks
Sony Vegas
Excalibur 6.0 Custom Command for Sony Vegas Pro 8 Excalibur 6.0 Custom Command for Sony Vegas Pro 8

If you read the review of Excalibur 4.5 from Jim Harvey in 2005, you know that he liked the plug in very much. So much so that he gave it the full 5 cows. So it will come as no surprise that Jim likes the newest edition as well. In this review, Jim points out that there are some very nice and useful additions to the toolset that will interface seamlessly with the new Vegas Pro 8 editing package.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Sony Vegas
Vegas Pro 8 Collection Vegas Pro 8 Collection

In this review, CreativeCOWs Jim Harvey takes a look at The Vegas Pro collection which combines Vegas Pro 8, DVD Architect Pro 4.5, and Dolby(R) Digital AC-3 encoding software to offer an integrated environment for all phases of professional video, audio, DVD, and broadcast production.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Apple Final Cut Pro
Luke Price reviews FxFactory Pro 2 Luke Price reviews FxFactory Pro 2

FxFactory Pro includes 130 filters, generators and transitions for Final Cut Pro, Motion and Final Cut Express and in this review, CreativeCOW contributing editor, Luke Price writes a comprehensive review from an editors perspective.

Review
Author: Luke Price
Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop CS3: Photo Effects Cookbook Photoshop CS3: Photo Effects Cookbook

CreativeCOW leader, Mike Gondek examines Photoshop CS3: Photo Effects Cookbook by Tim Shelbourne and published by O'Reilly Media, Inc. Find out why Mike says, ''...after seeing this book, it has me interested in checking out the rest of the cookbook series from O'Reilly. You'll want to also.''

Review
Author: Mike Gondek
Sony CineAlta - XDCAM
Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1 Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1

In this review, CreativeCOW's Jim Harvey takes a hard look at Mastering the Sony PMW-EX1 from Vortex Media. See why he says: ...''if you are planning on purchasing a SONY PVM-EX1, or want to learn more about tapeless workflow and acquisition, this Workshop course will be an invaluable addition to your knowledge base.''

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Apple Final Cut Pro
Bob Zelin Looks at Dulce Systems Pro EX PCI-Express expander Bob Zelin Looks at Dulce Systems Pro EX PCI-Express expander

WELL, it happened again. Today, I installed the new Dulce Systems Pro EX PCI-Express expander. This product is amazing, and this review will be very short, as it's such a simple product, that has been LONG OVERDUE.

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
Sony Vegas
Vegas 8 Pro, Raylight and Windows Vista Vegas 8 Pro, Raylight and Windows Vista

Creative Cow Leader Michael Hurwicz looks at DVFilm's Raylight plug-in, which provides transparent support for Panasonic MXF files in Sony Vegas. Testing Vegas Pro 8 running under Microsoft Vista, Michael finds Raylight to be an elegant and reliable solution.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
AVID Editing
Boris Continuum Complete AVX 5: Unleash Your Avid! Boris Continuum Complete AVX 5: Unleash Your Avid!

Emmy Award-winning editor Vivek Narayan takes a closer look at the latest version of Boris Continuum Complete, a comprehensive set of filters and effects for leading NLEs as well as After Effects. Although it works largely the same in all hosts, Vik digs deepest into BCC operating inside Avid. He finds that the 180 filters here more than give others a run for their money: it beats out some of the industry's favorites. See why he calls buying BCC AVX 5 "a no-brainer."

Review
Author: Vivek Narayan
RED Camera
Seeing RED in Montreal: A Creative COW Real Time Report Seeing RED in Montreal: A Creative COW Real Time Report

None of the RED cameras have yet made their way into an owner's hands in Montreal, so Mathieu Marano helped arrange an introduction for the Final Cut Montreal user group. In this Creative COW Real Time Report, he shares the details of that meeting, as well as his first experiences with RED post-production workflow. Since this is a real time report, stay tuned for updates as Mathieu and the producers of Montreal learn more.

Review
Author: Mathieu Marano
Audio Professionals
Real-world Mixing with the PSC DV ProMix 6 Real-world Mixing with the PSC DV ProMix 6

PSCs DV ProMix 6 has everything you need for multi-channel audio mixing, even on a DV-sized budget. Brandt Sleeper takes you through its ins and outs, and shows how it stands up to the rigors of real-world production.

Review
Author: Brandt Sleeper
Sony CineAlta HD
A Creative Cow Real-time Report: EX1 vs. PD170 A Creative Cow Real-time Report: EX1 vs. PD170

In this Creative COW Real Time Report, Don Greening puts the Sony DSR-PD170, long-acknowledged to be a low-light champ, against the newcomer, the PMW EX-1 head to head in a low-light test. Will the upstart unseat the champ? Read on....

Review, Feature
Author: Don Greening
Audio Professionals
Audio Mixing for DV and HDV: PSC DV Promix 3 Audio Mixing for DV and HDV: PSC DV Promix 3

Brandt Sleeper shows how PSCs DV ProMix 3 will help your DV and HDV recordings sound better than ever -- bars and tone, calibration, for one or several cameras. Could this be the field mixer youve been waiting for?

Review
Author: Brandt Sleeper
Sony CineAlta HD
On Location with the Sony PMW-EX1 XDCAM EX On Location with the Sony PMW-EX1 XDCAM EX

In this Creative COW Real Time Report, Don Greening takes us along on his very first shoot with his brand new Sony XDCAM EX camera on location in British Columbia. Upon return to his nice warm studio, Don also takes us through his very first look at the footage on his plasma TV, and his first edit in Final Cut Pro.

Review, Feature
Author: Don Greening
Adobe Flash
Flash Videos for the Web Using Adobe CS3 Flash Videos for the Web Using Adobe CS3

Overview of the different ways to create Flash Videos in Adobe CS3. In this tutorial you will learn the various methods of FLV and SWF Video creation in Adobe After Effects, Dreamweaver and Flash and learn the strengths and weaknesses of each method.

Review, Tutorial
Author: Abraham Chaffin
Audio Professionals
Field Mixing with the PSC AlphaMix Field Mixing with the PSC AlphaMix

In this review from producer and professor Brandt Sleeper, he takes you on trip through this field mixer's exceptional feature set, including support for multiple cameras and NP-1 power. He also puts it through its paces on a segment for Good Morning America.

Review
Author: Brandt Sleeper
Apple Final Cut Pro
Matrox MXO: Broadcast Monitoring on a Desktop Monitor Matrox MXO: Broadcast Monitoring on a Desktop Monitor

Creative Cow Leader Shane Ross wasn't convinced that the Matrox MXO could really provide the CRT-accurate monitoring through an Apple Cinema Display he demands for his HD broadcast workflows. After working with it for nearly a year, through multiple upgrades and in a variety of configurations, he tells you here why he's convinced now.

Review
Author: Shane Ross
AJA io
The long-awaited AJA Io HD! The long-awaited AJA Io HD!

Creative COW Community leader Gary Adcock has also worked closely with a number of industry manufacturers over the years, including AJA. Gary offers a guided tour through the features of the much-anticipated Io HD, and its promise of portable, hardware-supported ProRes editing in virtually every frame size and frame rate.

Review
Author: Gary Adcock
Windows Hardware & Software
Directory Opus 9 Directory Opus 9

This bruiser app is so powerful it should be a requirement for any power user (and every digital content creation user). It offers outstanding tools and an enhanced workflow at a great price. Its features are so deep I felt a written review wasn't strong enough to illustrate why Directory Opus 9 should be standard on every windows computer.

Review
Author: John David Hutton
Art of the Edit
The Sonnet D800 RAID: Speed and Safety The Sonnet D800 RAID: Speed and Safety

Jeremy Garchow's business is growing. So was his storage, and the potential for disaster. SATA array are less expensive, but were they safe, even with redundancy? With the Sonnet D800 he's got a terabyte of uncompressed HD, with full protection, for a great price. Read on to see the details of his set-up, and see if SATA and the Sonnet D800 will work as well for you as it has for Jeremy.

Review, Feature
Author: Jeremy Garchow
Compression techniques
Jim Harvey reviews Creating Web Video Jim Harvey reviews "Creating Web Video"

A DVD about compression gets an enthusiastic 5 Cow rating? Really? Really! CreativeCOW.net Contributing Editor Jim Harvey takes you inside the new Creative Cow Master Series DVD by Aharon Rabinowitz, "Creating Web Video: Internet Killed the Video Star." See why Jim thinks this is one of the most essential --- and enjoyable -- training DVDs you can buy.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
MAYA
Mastering Maya 8.5 Mastering Maya 8.5

In this article, CreativeCOW contributing editor, Chris Lupetti takes a look at Mastering Maya 8.5 published by Sybex and authored by John Kundert-Gibbs, Mick Larkins, Dariush Derakshani and Eric Kunzendorf.

Review
Author: Chris Lupetti
Sony Vegas
Sony Vegas 8: What's New, What's Required & More Sony Vegas 8: What's New, What's Required & More

Edward started the Vegas + DVD Tips, Tricks, and Scripts newsletter to cover all topics from the beginning basics to the more advanced features. The goal is to provide extended information on individual topics beyond what a quick forum answer could cover and to provide a repository of information for quick access. The September issue introduces the new features in the much-anticipated Sony Vegas 8.

Review, Feature
Author: Edward Troxel
AJA Kona
Bob Zelin Looks at The AJA GEN10 Bob Zelin Looks at The AJA GEN10

The AJA GEN10 is a cost effective and flexible Blackburst and Tri-level Sync Generator. While reminding you of why blackburst and sync are very, very good ideas, Creative Cow leader Bob Zelin takes you through the GEN10's ins and 7 outs.

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
CalDigit
CalDigit HDPro: RAID 5 and Beyond! CalDigit HDPro: RAID 5 and Beyond!

Creative Cow Leader Shane Ross shares the great news: both performance and protection with CalDigit's new HDPro RAID! Supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, and 6, the HDPro even works with your laptop. It's the answer to Shane's prayers. He thinks it might be the answer to yours too.

Review
Author: Shane Ross
Adobe After Effects
Evoluent Vertical Mouse Evoluent Vertical Mouse

It starts as a slight twinge in the shoulder, or a prickle in the wrist, a dime-sized knot in the forearm or a tingling somewhere up and down the arm. Whatever the symptoms, the cause is usually the same - RSI or repetitive strain injury or its widely publicized brother, carpal tunnel syndrome. In this article, John David Hutton takes a look at the new Evoluent Vertical Mouse. It could be the answer to protecting yourself from carpal tunnel and other strains.

Review
Author: John David Hutton
Digital Photography
Dean Collins On Lighting Dean Collins On Lighting

CreativeCOW leader, Mike Gondek examines Dean Collins On Lighting: Live at Brooks Institute of Photography 1991 and published by Software Cinema. Although, this was presented in 1991, Mike believes the content is timeless material.

Review
Author: Mike Gondek
Adobe After Effects
Andrew Kramer's Riot Gear Andrew Kramer's Riot Gear

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey takes a look at Andrew Kramer's latest offering: Riot Gear. Riot Gear is a collection of 150+ visual elements including paint, ink, grunge , tv noise, and much more.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
particle Illusion
Professional Emitter Libraries: Pyro and Hearts Professional Emitter Libraries: Pyro and Hearts

In this article, CreativeCOW's Bill O'Neil takes a look at the new wondertouch Professional Emitter Libraries. In this set are two Pyro libraries and one Heart set which is a collection of beautiful heart themed designs and backgrounds.

Review
Author: Bill O'Neil
Apple Final Cut Pro
Wayne Carey Reviews Getting Organized in Final Cut Pro Wayne Carey Reviews Getting Organized in Final Cut Pro

Frequent COW contributor and Final Cut Studio editor Wayne Carey takes a look at Getting Organized in Final Cut Pro by Shane Ross, the first FCP title in The Creative COW Master Series. Shane shares the secrets to media management that he's developed in his film broadcast editing career. Wayne takes a close look at what Shane has to say -- and a close look at Shane's iPod -- to discover workflow advice that works for every project, large or small.

Review
Author: Wayne Carey
Apple Final Cut Pro
SAS RAID from Dulce Systems SAS RAID from Dulce Systems

Creative COW Contributing Editor Bob Zelin talks about the latest step in the Serial Attached Storage revolution: full RAID 5 protection with read speeds over 350 mb/sec. from Dulce Systems. At least that's what Dulce claimed. When he heard the rest of what Dulce had to say, Bob simply didn't believe them. When he put those claims to the test, he got a lot more than he bargained for. Will you?

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
Apple iPhone
First Week with an iPhone First Week with an iPhone

Creative COW Community leader Gary Adcock provides a thorough overview of what you'll find in a new iPhone, plus what he'd like you to see in a future release. This is among the most thorough looks at iPhone you'll see anywhere, from one of the industry's most popular pundits, and a proven Mac maniac.

Review
Author: Gary Adcock
Cinematography
The Easy Slate System The Easy Slate System

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey takes a look at the Easy Slate Professional Slating System. Jim likes the way it looks, and thinks that it makes him more attentive to the small details that he used to let slip past. It's a simple idea with a clever implementation.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Adobe Flash
How to Wow - Mastering Flash How to Wow - Mastering Flash

CreativeCOW leader, Mike Gondek examines How to Wow - Mastering Flash by Colin Smith and published by Software Cinema. Mike strongly recommends Mastering Flash which will show you how to wow your audience with Flash and the amazing content you will generate after completing this training.

Review
Author: Mike Gondek
Cinematography
The Harbortronics DigiSnap 2000 Series Intervalometer The Harbortronics DigiSnap 2000 Series Intervalometer

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey takes a look at the The Harbortronics DigiSnap 2000 Series Intervalometer to create some time lapse photography, and concludes that adding a DigiSnap 2000 series intervalometer to his equipment kit is just good business sense.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Convergent Design
Convergent Design HD-Connect MI Converts Firewire to HDMI..RS-422 Convergent Design HD-Connect MI Converts Firewire to HDMI..RS-422

RSystems installer Bob Zelin torture tests every device that comes into his orbit. If he says it works in the real world, it does. If he says that it doesn't, it doesn't. He tests the Firewire to HDMI conversion feature at two Orlando facilities, as well as the Firewire to RS-422 conversion. Does the HD-Connect MI make the cut?

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
Adobe Audition
Adobe Opens Public Beta for Its Upcoming CS3 Tools Adobe Opens Public Beta for Its Upcoming CS3 Tools

Adobe has opened a public beta for its upcoming CS3 tools. Kudos, says Boomer. Here's why...

Review, Editorial
Author: Ron Lindeboom
Adobe Audition
Adobe takes COW members inside Adobe Creative Suite 3 Adobe takes COW members inside Adobe Creative Suite 3

Steve Kilisky, Giles Baker, Hart Shafer and Mark Randall sat down with Tim Wilson and Ron Lindeboom to talk about the launch of CS3. They discuss what it means to them, and what it will mean to you. This is a brief overview of what you'll find in each of the 4 parts.

Review, Editorial, People / Interview
Author: Tim Wilson
particle Illusion
wondertouch particleIllusion Professional Emitter Libraries wondertouch particleIllusion Professional Emitter Libraries

In this article, CreativeCOW's Bill O'Neil takes a look at the new wondertouch Professional Emitter Libraries. Bill says he's never been a fan of of 'presets' because he feels like he's stealing someone else's work, but in this case, he finds that ''...Tom's work is inspiring. Dive into the settings of his emitters and learn. It is obvious that he has spent a lot of time in creating these deep, complex images. If nothing else, this collection can replace a few stock background libraries you might have. They are that good.''

Review
Author: Bill O'Neil
AJA Kona
Cal Digit S2VRHD Cal Digit S2VRHD

CreativeCOW's Bob Zelin tests a Cal Digit S2VRHD with a host card for a PCI-X computer, and a PCI-E computer. He used the incredible AJA Kona System Test, to evaluate the drive speeds. He was determined to 'break it.' Did he? No. He determined that...''If you want to do uncompressed HD, for a fraction of the price of an Apple Xserve RAID, or other hi end SCSI or Fibre Channel drive arrays, THIS IS YOUR BOX.'' Read the rest to find out why.

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
Corporate Video
Media 100 Producer: Media 100's software-only editor Media 100 Producer: Media 100's software-only editor

Creative Cow's Nick Griffin, a longtime Media 100 user, switched to Final Cut Pro a few years ago. Here, he explores Media 100 Producer, a new software-only editor from Media 100. Media 100 Producer offers a mobile and scalable editing environment as well as FireWire I/O and Panasonic P2 acquisition capabilities. Ideal for in-the-field or mobile editing, editors using Media 100 Producer can shoot using their Panasonic P2 camera and immediately begin editing. In addition, Media 100 Producer can use media captured by Apple Final Cut Pro and Media 100 and output via FireWire or export to DVD or web. Nick explores this latest offering from Media 100 and gives it 4-1/2 Cows out of five. Why? read on...

Review
Author: Nick Griffin
Adobe Audition
Adobe talks about the new Adobe Production Studio for Macintosh Adobe talks about the new Adobe Production Studio for Macintosh

In this article, CreativeCOWs Tim Wilson interviews Adobes Simon Hayhurst, Director of Product Management for Dynamic Media who takes us inside the Production Studios journey across platforms.

Review, Editorial, People / Interview
Author: Tim Wilson
HDV Format
VisionLab Studio/CompositeLab/Effects Lab from Fxhome VisionLab Studio/CompositeLab/Effects Lab from Fxhome

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey takes a look at Vision Lab Studio, Composite Lab and Effects Lab from Fxhome. Read on to find out why Jim calls it 'professional compositing on a budget.'

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
AJA Kona
AJA HD10AVA Converter AJA HD10AVA Converter

CreativeCOW's Bob Zelin discusses how to turn your HDV VTR into a professional product using the amazing AJA HD10AVA converter. It takes the analog component HD signal from your Sony or JVC HDV VTR, and converts it to an HD-SDI signal that can go right into the HD-SDI input of your capture card.

Review
Author: Bob Zelin
HDV Format
Sony Vegas 7 Sony Vegas 7

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews Sony Vegas 7 and concludes, ''...It Just Keeps Getting Better. For the money, you 'd be hard pressed to find a better editing program.''

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Adobe After Effects
Adobe Production Studio Adobe Production Studio

Total Training has long been known for their excellent and in-depth training for Adobe After Effects. With the release of the Adobe Production Studio, they too have released training bundles, aimed at the production studio user. In this article, Creative Cow Leader Aanarav Sareen takes a look at the new Total Training Premium Bundle for the Adobe Production Studio.

Review
Author: Aanarav Sareen
Autodesk 3ds Max
Max Monster Pak Max Monster Pak

Michael Hurwicz looks at Max Monster Pak, a giant collection of 3D models, textures, motion capture files, and bonus software for 3d max from Digimation.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
Adobe Audition
Adobe Soundbooth: A First Glimpse Adobe Soundbooth: A First Glimpse

Tim Wilson previews the new Adobe Soundbooth audio sweetening and soundtrack creation tool planned for 2007 release. In this article, Tim talks with Adobe's Hart Schafer, Senior Product Manager of Adobe Audio Products, and explores many of the features and functions in the newly announced Soundbooth.

Review, Tutorial, People / Interview
Author: Tim Wilson
Adobe After Effects
GridIron Nucleo Pro GridIron Nucleo Pro

In this video review, Creative Cow Leader Aharon Rabinowitz explores GridIron Software's Nucleo Pro, a new plug-in that speeds up AE renders and previews and helps users improve their workflow.

Review
Author: Aharon Rabinowitz
Adobe OnLocation
Serious Magic DV Rack HD 2.0 reviewed Serious Magic DV Rack HD 2.0 reviewed

DV Rack and later, HDV Rack have proven to be valuable pieces of software for Emmy Award winner, Tim Kolb's field production activities, but like others, Tim is moving through the HD transition. Enter DV Rack 2.0. Tim determines that this version has some important improvements.. Read the rest of Tim's review.....

Review
Author: Tim Kolb
Adobe After Effects
GridIron Software: Nucleo Pro GridIron Software: Nucleo Pro

In this article, Creative Cow Leader Nick Griffin takes a look at Nucleo Pro plug-in for After Effects from GridIron Software, Inc.

Review
Author: Nick Griffin
Adobe After Effects
Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5 Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5

In this article, CreativeCOW leader, Aharon Rabinowitz takes thorough look at Red Giant Software's Knoll Light Factory Pro 2.5.

Review
Author: Aharon Rabinowitz
Adobe After Effects
Adobe After Effects 7.0: Classroom in a Book Adobe After Effects 7.0: Classroom in a Book

In this article, Creative Cow Leader Aanarav Sareen takes a look at Adobe After Effects 7: Classroom in a Book and reports that he was pleasantly surprised.

Review
Author: Aanarav Sareen
Corporate Video
MediaFiler 2.0 MediaFiler 2.0

MediaFiler 2.0 is a professional database software designed for the video production industry. It's an easy way to catalog, track, label, and organize your whole library of tapes and disks. In this article, Creative Cow Leader Aanarav Sareen takes a look at the software for use in his own production environment and determines that it is everything they say it is.

Review
Author: Aanarav Sareen
Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D 9.6 and MoGraph Cinema 4D 9.6 and MoGraph

In this article, Mylenium is taking a long hard look at Cinema 4D and the new MoGraph module. When Maxon revealed it at NAB this year, everybody was excited and we are trying to find out, if it lives up to people's expectations.

Review
Author: Mylenium
Cinematography
HandsOnHDV: How to Setup, Light & Shoot Great Looking Interviews HandsOnHDV: How to Setup, Light & Shoot Great Looking Interviews

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey takes a look at one of the newest titles from HandsOnHDV called How to Setup, Light & Shoot Great Looking Interviews and has determined that this is a 5 cow instructional DVD that you really can't be without.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Cinema 4D
How modo can make your life easier: Texturing How modo can make your life easier: Texturing

In part three of our series on Luxology's modo 201, CreativeCOW leader Mylenium will focus on texturing in modo. Next in the series he'll discuss baking. Stay tuned.

Review, Tutorial, Video Tutorial
Author: Mylenium
Cinema 4D
How modo can make your life easier: Modeling How modo can make your life easier: Modeling

In part two of our series on Luxology's modo 201, CreativeCOW leader Mylenium will focus on modeling in modo. Next in the series will discuss texturing. Stay tuned.

Review, Tutorial, Video Tutorial
Author: Mylenium
Boris FX
Class on Demand: Complete Training for Boris Continuum Complete 4 Class on Demand: Complete Training for Boris Continuum Complete 4

Over the years, some of the most-used After Effects plug-ins on my computer have come from Boris. Recently, Boris Continuum Complete 4.0 came out. Hot on its heels was Class on Demand's latest training on Boris: "Complete Training for Boris Continuum Complete 4," --designed specifically to get people up to speed on those filters. In this article, CreativeCOW's Tim Johnson takes a look at the training and concludes that this training from Class on Demand is a solid training DVD with a couple of nice extras.

Review
Author: Tim Johnson
AVID Editing
InvigoMany Vol. 1 -- Sports Objects & More for Broadcast Designers InvigoMany Vol. 1 -- Sports Objects & More for Broadcast Designers

In this article, Mark Harvey, longtime leader in Creative Cow and a noted broadcast designer/editor, gives readers a look at Invigomany, Vol. 1: Sports from Serge Hamad -- the newest release of the Creative Cow master tools.

Review
Author: Mark Harvey
Adobe After Effects
Digital Anarchy's Chaos Stock: Volumes 1 and 2 Digital Anarchy's Chaos Stock: Volumes 1 and 2

Tim Johnson takes a thorough look at Digital Anarchy's Chaos Stock: Volumes 1 and 2 and concludes with...''Once you get the hang of changing things around to fit your specific art directions, you will quickly see the power of 'Chaos Stock'. This is a great buy!''

Review
Author: Tim Johnson
Adobe After Effects
Andrew Kramer's Serious Effects & Compositing: Video Training for AE 7 Andrew Kramer's Serious Effects & Compositing: Video Training for AE 7

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews Video Training For After Effects 7, Serious Effects & Compositing, hosted by Andrew Kramer .

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Autodesk 3ds Max
Animation Writing and Development: from Script Development to Pitch Animation Writing and Development: from Script Development to Pitch

Author/Animator/Musician Michael Hurwicz examines ''Animation Writing and Development: from Script Development to Pitch'' by Jean Ann Wright, and finds it inspiring and informative. Definitely recommended for anyone who wants a career in writing for animation, or who is developing an animation script or idea. Wright is a seasoned industry professional, and it shows.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
MAYA
Learning Maya 7 Book Bundle Learning Maya 7 Book Bundle

CreativeCOW leader John David Hutton takes a thorough look at the Learning Maya 7 Book Bundle and concludes with ''...I give this 3 book bundle a solid 5 cows for a clean, organized, thoughtful layout and instruction set. They contain an awe-inspiring bundle of textures and materials, programs, videos and tutorials. You won't want to miss them.''

Review
Author: John David Hutton
Adobe After Effects
CineLook 2 and Magic Bullet 2.1 CineLook 2 and Magic Bullet 2.1

Tim Johnson takes a thorough look at both CineLook 2 from DigiEffects and Magic Bullet from Red Giant Software and determines that while at first glance they do the same thing -- the film look, they are two very different products. Read the review to find out which product would best suit your needs.

Review
Author: Tim Johnson
Autodesk 3ds Max
Dell's new Precision M90 mobile workstation Dell's new Precision M90 mobile workstation

Author/Animator/Musician Michael Hurwicz gives us a first look at Dell's new Precision M90 mobile workstation, and finds that it's a significant step forward in technology. But should you wait for what's around the corner?

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
AVID Editing
ArtFXual Avid Marquee Demystified ArtFXual Avid Marquee Demystified

In this article, Creativecow's Alex Alexzander takes a thorough look at Avid Marquee Demystified from artFXual and hosted by Steve Bayes.

Review
Author: Alex Alexzander
Adobe Encore DVD
Adobe Encore 2.0 reviewed Adobe Encore 2.0 reviewed

In this article, CreativeCOW.net leader, Greg Mulvey takes a look at the new Adobe Encore 2.0 and concludes that overall this is a great upgrade. ''...if you are using the rest of the Adobe Production Studio then Encore DVD 2.0 is going to be your best choice for most DVD projects.''

Review
Author: Greg Mulvey
Autodesk 3ds Max
Stop Staring Stop Staring

Author/Animator/Musician Michael Hurwicz examines ''Stop Staring'' by Jason Osipa, and finds that the author manages to make his detailed, in-the-trenches instruction fun. Highly recommended if you want to really get down into the details of lip sync and facial animation.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
AVID Editing
Inside Avid Xpress Pro Inside Avid Xpress Pro

In this article, Creativecow's Alex Alexzander takes a thorough look at Inside Avid Xpress Pro hosted by Steve Bayes and published by Digital Media Training Services.

Review
Author: Alex Alexzander
Eovia Carrara
Carrara5 Pro Handbook by Mike de la Flor Carrara5 Pro Handbook by Mike de la Flor

In this article, CreativeCOW.net leader, Ringo Monfort reviews Carrara 5 Pro Handbook (Graphics Series) written by Mike de la Flor, and published by Charles River Media, 512 pages, January 2006, ISBN: 1584504633, and feels that, the book falls short.... Read the full review for Ringos point of view...

Review
Author: Ringo Monfort
particle Illusion
wondertouch Professional Emitter Libraries for ParticleIllusion 3.0 wondertouch Professional Emitter Libraries for ParticleIllusion 3.0

Creative Cow leader Aharon Rabinowitz reviews wondertouch Professional Emitter Libraries for ParticleIllusion 3.0 and concludes that while not every emitter is equally useful, it's a great product to supplement the emitters you're already using, and an excellent value overall.

Review
Author: Aharon Rabinowitz
Leitch dpsVelocity
VelocityHD and VelocityQ Training 101 VelocityHD and VelocityQ Training 101

Creative Cow leader Lyn Norstad takes a look at Mike Harper's unique DVD video training program for the Velocity HD and Velocity Q packages from Leitch (now a division Harris.)

Review
Author: Lyn Norstad
DVD Authoring
eDVD 4 from Sonic Solutions eDVD 4 from Sonic Solutions

In this article, Dr. James Manz gives an overview and review of Sonics' latest upgrade of eDVD to version 4. This is a major upgrade that brings ''Hollywood-level'' capabilities of adding ROM content to DVD video to just about anyone who authors discs.

Review, Tutorial
Author: James Manz MD
Cinema 4D
C4D 9.5: Real-World 3D Animation Production C4D 9.5: Real-World 3D Animation Production

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Doug Bassett reviews C4D 9.5: Real-World 3D Animation Production, by Larry Mitchell and published by Charles River Media; 1 edition; copyright (January 5, 2006), 432 pages; ISBN: 1584504374 and writes... ''If I had to tell you about this book in one sentence it would be that this book is the extension of the C4D Quick Start manual. You will learn much more about the 'how to' than the Quick Start and like the Quick Start, you will not get an explanation of the tools or why something works the way it does, but you will remain focused on the 'how to' and the project goal.''

Review
Author: Doug Bassett
Sony Vegas
The VEGAS 6 COMPANION The VEGAS 6 COMPANION

CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews The Vegas 6 Companion Training Series and comments, ''Gary Kleiner knows VEGAS. He has been working with the program since dirt was a new idea, and in that time, he has uncovered all sorts of big and little secrets about the program that make working with VEGAS that much more productive and enjoyable... {there is a} wealth of instructional help that Gary can provide for you. His prices are extremely reasonable and the quality of the training is top notch.''

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
HDV Format
HandsOn HDV Training DVD for Sony HDR-HC1 HandsOn HDV Training DVD for Sony HDR-HC1

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews HandsOn HDV Training DVD for Sony HDR-HC1. HandsOn HDV has produced a DVD training for trhe new Sony HC1, which Jim finds ''...very Informative for the target market and a well produced package.''

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Autodesk Combustion
Combustion 4 Training Course Combustion 4 Training Course

Michael Hurwicz looks at Kenneth LaRue's combustion 4 training DVDs and concludes that this set is great for novices and intermediates alike, but if you're already an expert, you may only need the 'What's New in Combustion 4' set that's available.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
Adobe After Effects
Open GL Demystified Open GL Demystified

In this video tutorial, Creativecow's Mylenium illustrates some of the new advanced Open GL features in After Effects 7 by comparing Open GL in version to Open GL in AE 6.5. If you're still wondering what the Open GL does, then watch Mylenium's video.

Review, Tutorial
Author: Mylenium
Cinematography
LENSBABY 2.0 Digital Lens LENSBABY 2.0 Digital Lens

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews LENSBABY 2.0 Digital Lens and questions readers, ''Ever want to take those dreamy photos that have a shallow depth of field but didn't want to invest in the Photoshop time or the mess of Vaseline on your filters or worse yet the expense of a View camera? Read on for one of the most fun items I've come across in quite a while. I confess that this review took three times longer than usual because I have been so busy playing with my Lensbaby!.''

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Adobe After Effects
After Effects 7 new features overview After Effects 7 new features overview

After a long wait it's finally here - the new version of After Effects. People have been getting nervous already because it seemed like forever when version 6.5 was released, but now that it's here, let's take a look at what the new version has on offer. I work mainly as a 3D artist/ motion graphics artist, so please forgive me if I'm not commenting on some functions that may be of larger importance for your type of work.

Review
Author: Mylenium
Adobe Premiere basics
Adobe Premiere Pro 2.0 Review Adobe Premiere Pro 2.0 Review

Adobe has released a major release in their Adobe Production Studio. In this article, Creativecow leader, Aanarav Sareen, an Adobe Certified Expert in Premiere, gives us an overview of the new Premiere Pro 2.0. In this review, Aanarav gives Creative Cow members a look at not only the many new features that make Premiere Pro 2 a formidable upgrade but also gives special emphasis to the new interface and integration capabilities- areas which take the new Production Studio tools to a level of seamless integration that no suite of tools in this industry has enjoyed before. Aanarav also explores the new multi-cam editing that use nested sequences and many other new features.

Review
Author: Aanarav Sareen
Autodesk 3ds Max
Advanced 3ds Max Character Modeling Advanced 3ds Max Character Modeling

Michael Hurwicz looks at Advanced 3ds Max Character Modeling, a training DVD by Kenny Cooper (demo artist and primary narrator) and Jim Lammers (project manager and some narration) of Trinity3D.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
Adobe Photoshop
 Photoshop CS2 Gone Wild Photoshop CS2 Gone Wild

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews Photoshop CS2 Gone Wild by Sherry London, by Wiley Publishing; Bk&CD-Rom edition (November 7, 2005), 400 pages, ISBN: 0764598139, and reveals, ''The book is laid out nicely, and it's certainly well written. There are top quality photographs and illustrations throughout the book that make the instructions as clear as possible. From a production value standpoint the book is a 10''. Jim does have some reservations, though, so read on to see his complete picture of the book.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
Autodesk 3ds Max
Model, Rig, Animate with 3ds Max 7 Model, Rig, Animate with 3ds Max 7

Author/Animator/Musician Michael Hurwicz examines 'Model, Rig, Animate with 3ds max 7' by Michele Bousquet. This slim volume covers the entire process of creating a 3D character animaton, from modeling to rigging and animation. It is very step-by-step in its approach. Although the subject matter is intermediate, even dedicated beginners should be able to follow along. Highly recommended.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
Autodesk 3ds Max
MAXScript 101 MAXScript 101

Author/Animator/Musician Michael Hurwicz looks at MAXScript 101, a training DVD by John Wainwright, the creator of MAXScript and determines that this is one of the best video-based training courses of any kind.

Review
Author: Michael Hurwicz
Ciprico storage solutions
Joaquin Gil reviews the Huge-4110 Joaquin Gil reviews the Huge-4110

CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Joaquin Gil shares his experience with storage needs during the creation of his last feature film. In this article, Kino discusses his success with the MediaVault 4110 from HUGE-Ciprico. He concludes with...''With the 4110, HUGE Ciprico addresses a market segment that needs large dataspaces in minimum physical space. A natural for the IT data center, the eCommerce nests, banking and legal data repositories and in general any data intensive application where reliability and speed are a must. This makes it very suitable also for animation and effects houses, middle sized to large editing and sound studios and the semi-nomad setups typical of reality shows, because of its sturdiness, practicality of the connectors and being a standard 19'' rack-mountable device.''

Review
Author: Joaquin Gil
Adobe Photoshop
123Di Training Course for Digital Photography Reviewed 123Di Training Course for Digital Photography Reviewed

In this article, CreativeCOW.net contributing editor Jim Harvey reviews 123Di Training Course for Digital Photography and discovers ''a delightful course that covered the Basics, the Intermediate and the Advanced aspects of Digital image acquisition, but had done so in a very interesting and well laid out program that is like nothing that I've ever seen before!'' ... A five COW recommendation for a powerful Photoshop training tool.

Review
Author: Jim Harvey
AVID Editing
Avid Liquid 7 -- a review by broadcast designer Mark Harvey Avid Liquid 7 -- a review by broadcast designer Mark Harvey

Mark Harvey, longtime leader in Creative Cow and a noted broadcast designer/editor, gives readers a look at the new Avid Liquid 7 -- acquired when Avid bought Pinnacle Systems and given many new features in this latest version now rolling out under the Avid name. Mark gives this system much praise for its powerful background rendering and wide feature set, as well as many new features like its HDV capabilities rolling out for the first time in v7.

Review
Author: