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The new software also includes the ability to import iMovie '08 projects and gives users access to various FxPlug cinematic effects and filters.

Apple's Vice President of Applications Product Marketing, Rob Schoeben said, "Almost a million digital filmmakers have made Final Cut their editing application of choice. With the introduction of Final Cut Express 4, Apple makes it easy for anyone to join the rapidly growing community of Final Cut editors worldwide."

According to Apple, the new Open Format Timeline in Final Cut Express 4 allows users to mix and match DV, HDV and AVCHD material in real-time using the same editing and trimming tools found in Final Cut Pro.

The software supports both 1080i and 720p HD resolutions and automatically performs the necessary scaling, cropping and frame rate adjustments. Apple says that when starting projects from scratch, the new simplified setup automatically configures everything based on the first clip dropped on the Timeline.

Final Cut Express 4 can also import iMovie ‘08 projects and enhance them with editing capabilities such as multiple layers of video and graphics, picture in picture effects and animated titles. The software also has over 50 new FxPlug filters, including Soft Focus, Vignette and Light Rays, with hundreds more available from a rapidly expanding FxPlug developer community. Users can automatically raise any clip to its maximum level without distortion using the new Soft Normalize and Gain controls.

Finally, Final Cut Express 4 also features LiveType 2, which provides an intuitive environment for creating dynamic and fun animated titles and includes an extensive library of animated fonts, textures, templates and effects, the company says.

Pricing and Availability

Apple's Final Cut Express 4 is now available through the Apple Store (www.apple.com/au) and Apple Authorised Resellers with an RRP of $268. Owners of previous versions of Final Cut Express can upgrade to Final Cut Express 4 for just $129.

For full system requirements and more information on Final Cut Express 4, see www.apple.co m/au/finalcutexpress.