when do I really need a Genlock?

[Gabriel]

I've been learning a lot here in VJForums. But some questions remain unclear to me...
I've read about the importance of a genlock to synck frames from differents videosources and the importance of it in a sacn converter. My question is: does scanconverter with Genlock always work with 2 or more videoinput? In wich setups will I need or miss a genlock feature? what difference does it show on a screen?

[MoRpH]

Originally posted by Gabriel
I've read about the importance of a genlock to synck frames from differents videosources and the importance of it in a sacn converter. My question is: does scanconverter with Genlock always work with 2 or more videoinput? In wich setups will I need or miss a genlock feature? what difference does it show on a screen?

Yes a scan convertor with genlock is normally designed for overlaying titles or some such and will always use 2 sources. Most scannys with a genlock will either key or fade from source to source (think of as many setups as you wish with that). Image difference is nothing really.

[Gabriel]

Yes a scan convertor with genlock is normally designed for overlaying titles or some such and will always use 2 sources. Most scannys with a genlock will either key or fade from source to source.

Thanks for the information MoRpH!
So can I use a scan converter instead a mixer like MX1?
What are the different possibilities of each setup?

Sorry if I'm asking a primary question but the fact is we're talking about hardwares I've never seen before. At this point I'm just testing demo versions in my computer. I just want to know exactly what is really necessary because hardwares like that are quite expensive to me. I live in Brazil and our economy is quite different...

Thanks !

[MoRpH]

Originally posted by Gabriel


Thanks for the information MoRpH!
So can I use a scan converter instead a mixer like MX1?


Nope, actually with some like the vinegen range you maybe able to switch sources and do a straight key (not really sure as I don't have one). As for actually mixing (fading) I don't know about the new ones but I have seen and old Amiga Genlock that let you fade from one amiga to another on a knob, thats about all I have seen with regards to genlocking scannies.... if I was you I would check out the vinegen range :)

[sleepytom]

the vinegen pro genlocks (discontinued) allow chroma key - they used to do a model with an external crossfade to fade the computer key in and out.

the updated version - corriogen elclipse will alow fade mix and lumakey though infared remote control and rs232 so you can kind of use it instead of a video mixer - you'd be looking to write a good rs232 control app though as the one from vine is rubbish and you can't really vj using an infared remote to control your xfade!

http://www.vinemicros.com/