Avid Media Composer 6.0 is a completely rebuilt version of the software program that came to define nonlinear editing. The professional video editing software now has a speedier, more powerful 64-bit open architecture that allows the program to address more system RAM. The architecture also opens up easy integration with I/O hardware – not just from Avid but also from several third-party manufacturers, such as AJA, Blackmagic Design, and Matrox. Version 6.0 features a revamped (but still familiarly Avid) user interface, tools for 5.1 and 7.1 surround-sound editing, and comprehensive tools & workflows for editing stereoscopic 3D footage – no plug-ins required.

Media Composer 6.0 is fast, and as a 64-bit application it handles complex projects with aplomb, performing faster keyframing and effects processing. With a new full RGB 4:4:4 DNxHD codec (DNxHD 444), the software allows you to work with high-definition video at the highest levels of quality at reasonable bandwidths. Revamped Avid Media Access (AMA) architecture makes it possible to work natively with AVCHD and RED footage. On the Mac side, you can now decode and encode all the Apple ProRes codecs, for easier integration with workflows that involve Final Cut Pro.

The changes to the well-loved interface are subtle, but ones that professional editors will wholeheartedly appreciate, such as tabbed bins and dockable tabs. Version 6.0 software also includes a few modules that give you the tools you need to perform those crucial tasks that are ancillary to the craft of editing: create special effects, perform encoding tasks, and author DVDs by using Boris RED (Avid FX), Sorenson Squeeze, and Avid DVD, respectively. With support for the Artist Color interface, you can perform color correction & color grading with specialist-level ergonomic control.