Issues editing Sony a99 II XAVC-S 4K footage in Avid MC


How can I import Sony a99 II XAVC-S 4K footage to Avid Media Composer for further editing? If you are unable to figure out a way to edit a99 II XAVC-S media in Avid system, you may wish to read this post. It displays a workaround to transcode a99 II XAVC-S 4K files to DNxHD for use in Avid with optimum performance.
sony a99 ii xavc s in avid

Couldn’t load Sony a99 II XAVC-S 4K files into Avid, how to fix?
“Hi all, I am trying to work with files from the new Sony a99 II in Avid MC. It can capture 4K video (UHD or Super 35) using the XAVC S codec with bit rates of up to 100Mbps. My issue is that Avid doesn’t allow me Importing or AMA those XAVC-S recordings. Do I have to transcode using a 3rd party application to use a99 II XAVC-S 4K in Avid? Or is there any other workarounds to go through this? Please suggest a solution. Thanks.”

Sadly, Sony stubbornly continues to refuse providing XAVC-S support for Avid. Therefore, for maximum cross-platform compatibility, do not buy XAVC-S equipment. If you already have a XAVC-S camera, you can use HD Video Converter to prepare your media for Avid. Here’s how.

How to convert Sony a99 II XAVC-S 4K footage to DNxHD for Avid editing?

Software requirement
HD Video Converter
You can download a demo version (for both, PC and Mac) to have a try. They are not free but it is totally worth it.
Sony a99 II XAVC S Converter for AvidSony a99 II XAVC S Converter for Avid

The steps:
Step 1: Start up HD Video Converter as a Sony a99 II XAVC S Converter for Avid. When its main interface pops up, click ‘Add File’ to input your source media.
transcode a99 II XAVC-S 4K files to DNxHD for Avid

Step 2: Choose output format for Avid MC
From ‘Profile’ list, select ‘Avid DNxHD (*.mov)’ as output format under ‘Avid Media Composer’ column.
transcode a99 II XAVC-S 4K files to DNxHD for Avid
Important: If you’ve loaded a number of video clips to do batch conversion, please do remember ticking off ‘Apply to All’ option before you start.

Step 3: Custom video and audio settings
If necessary, you can click ‘Settings’ button and go to ‘Profiles Settings’ panel to modify video and audio settings like video encoder, resolution, video bit rate, frame rate, aspect ratio, audio encoder, sample rate, audio bit rate, and audio channels. 3D settings are also available.

Step 4: Start Sony a99 II XAVC S 4K to DNxHD MOV Conversion
When ready, click ‘Convert’ to start format conversion. As soon as the conversion is complete, you can click ‘Open Folder’ button to get the exported DNxHD MOV files for use in Avid apps with optimum performance.

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