How to import MXF files into FCP X?


What’s the best workflow for MXF video files and Apple’s Final Cut Pro X? The workflow would depend greatly on how powerful your Mac system is. If for any reason you are unable to use MXF files in Final Cut Pro X fluidly, this tutorial may shed you some light. It explains a way of transcoding MXF media to FCP X preferred ProRes 422 codec for a smooth editing workflow on your Mac machine.
import MXF files to FCP X
“I have an issue with Canon MXF footage in Final Cut Pro X. Worked perfectly with Sierra, not working anymore with High Sierra. FCP X reports an import error, then you can play the clip but no sound. Does anyone have the same issue? How do you solve it? Please kindly suggest a solution if you know. Thanks in advance.”

After the upgradation to 10.4 with macOS High Sierra, FCP X has issues coping with MXF footage from Canon and other cameras. To be able to use MXF media in FCP X fluidly, you could convert them first. Check a guide on how to encode MXF files to ProRes codec for editing in FCP X fluently.

How to convert MXF to ProRes for FCP X?

Here’s what you need
HD Converter for Mac
MXF to FCP X Converter

Follow these steps:
Step 1: Run HD Video Converter for Mac as a professional MXF to FCP X Converter. When its main interface comes up, click ‘Add File’ to load source video to it.
import MXF files to FCP X

Step 2: Select ‘Apple ProRes 422 (*.mov)’ as output format for opening with FCP X
From the ‘Profile’ bar, move to ‘Final Cut Pro’ catalogue, and select ‘Apple ProRes 422 (*.mov)’ as target format. Apple ProRes is the best suited editing codec for FCP X and its former version FCP 6 and 7. When loading them into FCP X, you needn’t wait for a long time for rendering.
convert MXF to ProRes for FCP X
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: Adjust video and audio settings (for advanced users)
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: Click ‘Convert’ to start MXF to ProRes MOV conversion.

Step 5: Click ‘Open Folder’ to get generated ProRes 422 QuickTime files for transferring and editing in Final Cut Pro X with optimum performance.

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