My Final Cut Express 2 won't import any audio or export anything

Final Cut Express does not work with MP4s. You need to convert the MP4 video to QuickTime DV or QuickTime Apple Intermediate Codec before importing it into FCE. Which one to use depends on the properties of the MP4 video you have ... basically, if it's standard def 4:3 then convert to QuickTime DV (NTSC if you are in North America, PAL if you are in Eurpope) ... high def 16:9 should be converted to QuickTime Apple Intermediate Codec.

In most cases you can use MPEG Streamclip to do the conversion.

As for audio files, they need to be AIFF, 16-bit (aka 48KHz), stereo. If they are not AIFF format you need to convert them ... you can use iTunes or almost any audio editing software to convert audio files.

I realized MP4s are not my problem. I made a mistake trying to import them. The problem is more global. Ever since I upgraded the OS I became limited in FCE.

I can't recall specifics on what Quicktime works with what OS but I'd double check this matterr with you existing setup.

Also if you have upgraded the OS over the previous one or more you may have inherited issues.

A CLEAN of the OS install is always recommended.

Al

What's the right way to do a clean install of OS 10.4? Do I need to reinstall FCE?

Clone your HD with something like Carbon Copy Cloner before you do a clean install. Yes, you will re-install FCE,

Good luck.

Russ

Message was edited by: Russ H multiple typos