Apple Cinema Tools 3 - Manual (Page 29)

Chapter 1 Before You Begin Your Project 29
A consideration for the audio timecode setting is how the final audio will be mixed:
 If the final mix is to be completed using Final Cut Pro, the setting needs to match the
Final Cut Pro Editing Timebase setting in the Sequence Preset Editor.
 If the final mix is to be completed at an audio postproduction facility, the timecode
needs to be compatible with their equipment.
Note: Be sure to consult with the facility and make this determination before the
shoot begins.
In general, if you are syncing the audio during the telecine transfer, the timecode
should match the video standard (29.97 fps for NTSC, 25 fps for PAL, or 24 for 24P).
Check with your sound editor before you shoot to make sure they are comfortable with
your choice.
Mixing the Final Audio
The way you mix the final audio depends on how complicated the soundtrack is
(multiple tracks, sound effects, and overdubbing all add to its complexity), and your
budget. You can either finish the audio with Final Cut Pro or have it finished at a
postproduction facility.
Finishing the Audio With Final Cut Pro
If you capture high-quality audio clips, you can finish the audio for your project with
Final Cut Pro, which includes sophisticated sound editing tools. Keep in mind, however,
that good audio is crucial to a good film, and a decision not to put your audio in the
hands of a audio postproduction facility familiar with the issues of creating audio for
film might lead to disappointing results.
You can export the audio from Final Cut Pro as an OMF (Open Media Framework) file
for use at an audio postproduction facility. An exported OMF file contains not only the
information about audio In and Out points, but also the audio itself. This means that,
for example, any sound effects clips you may have added are included. When you use
an OMF file, the recording quality must be as high in quality as possible, as this is what
the audience will hear. Be sure to use a good capture device and observe proper
recording levels.
Exporting Audio EDLs
Another approach is to use lower–quality clips in Final Cut Pro and then export an
audio Edit Decision List (EDL) for use at an audio postproduction facility. There they can
capture high-quality versions of the audio clips straight from the original production
sound source and edit them based on the audio EDL. For this to work, the timecode
and reel numbers of the original sound tapes must be kept track of and used to create
the audio EDL.
UP01101.Book Page 29 Thursday, March 10, 2005 3:16 PM