We write this post to help those who are having issues working with Sony AZ1 XAVC-S footage in Avid Media Composer. It displays a workaround to transcode Sony AZ1 XAVC-S files to DNxHD for use in Avid system smoothly without a glitch.
The Sony Action Cam Mini HDR-AZ1 is smaller and lighter than many competitors; it has excellent video quality with solid electronic image stabilization; the live-view remote lets you wirelessly preview, review and change settings, and has GPS; it has a splashproof body and a removable, rechargeable battery; the included tripod mount gives you plenty of accessory choice.
The Sony Action Cam Mini HDR-AZ1 is capable of shooting 1080-60p video in XAVC S Codec with MP4 container. For a faster and more fluid workflow in Avid Media Composer, users sometimes need to transcode Sony AZ1 XAVC-S footage to a format that is best suitable for use Avid, such as DNxHD, Avid’s favorite editing codec, which Avid will recognize and handle well. To perform format conversion, a third party XAVC-S converter app is required. Considering the ease of use and optimal output format for Avid, we would recommend HD Video Converter. Read on to learn a quick guide on how to convert Sony AZ1 XAVC-S video to DNxHD for Avid editing.
Software requirement
HD Video Converter
You can download a demo version to have a try. They are not free but it is totally worth it.
How to convert SONY AZ1 XAVC S files to DNxHD for editing in Avid?
Step 1: Start up HD Video Converter as a SONY AZ1 XAVC S Converter for Avid. When its main interface pops up, click ‘Add File’ to input your source media.
Step 2: Choose output format for Avid MC
From ‘Profile’ list, select ‘Avid DNxHD (*.mov)’ as output format under ‘Avid Media Composer’ column.
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 AZ1 XAVC S 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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