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Simple video editing machine - RAM or Video Card

A

adams828

Senior member
Hi all - I have to configure a machine for work and need to purchase from Dell. The spec calls for a Core i7 machine, which at this point limits the choices to the XPS 730x and Studio XPS.

The 730x allows for configuration with better video cards, but only 6GB RAM.
The Studio XPS allows 12GB RAM, but only Radeon 4850

Given that this machine will be used to edit relatively short videos (10-15 minutes max), SD resolution, should I go for the Studio or 730x? Unfortunately I think neither is very upgradeable due to lack of DIMM slots or PCI slots..

Budget-wise the Studio is cheaper and would allow purchase of dual displays which would help workflow (the 4850 shouldn't have a problem driving two 24" LCDs right?).

Thanks!
 
I'd go for the absolute cheapest option, then upgrading the RAM/video card on your own for whatever specs you need it to operate at/with. Your company might not like the idea though, but either solution should be more than enough power for you. As for the driving 2 24"s, even at native res, most cards these days will be able to do that very easily since neither screen will be using anything incredibly gpu heavy.
 
For video editing, video card actually has little impact. The amount of RAM can be large however. Go for the Studio XPS.

And, no, the 4850 won't have any problem driving two 24" screens.
 
Originally posted by: adams828
I have to configure a machine for work and need to purchase from Dell.
The spec calls for a Core i7 machine,
Click to expand...
So you're locked into buying a Dell and have some type of minimum specs that you must acquire?
What are those specs?

Here's a thought for your video editing machine options...
* Get the Studio XPS with 6GB of memory,
* Don't spend $200 on a 4850 upgrade, buy the 4670 instead,
* Add the 2x640GB RAID 0 option for $100.

Since this machine is for "work", I'm assuming you'll be religious about backups.
 
Originally posted by: Blain
Originally posted by: adams828
I have to configure a machine for work and need to purchase from Dell.
The spec calls for a Core i7 machine,
Click to expand...
So you're locked into buying a Dell and have some type of minimum specs that you must acquire?
What are those specs?

Here's a thought for your video editing machine options...
* Get the Studio XPS with 6GB of memory,
* Don't spend $200 on a 4850 upgrade, buy the 4670 instead,
* Add the 2x640GB RAID 0 option for $100.

Since this machine is for "work", I'm assuming you'll be religious about backups.
Click to expand...

Really the only "spec" I was asked to build to was Core i7. Budgetwise ~$4500, including two (ideally the 24" ultrasharps) monitors. There is already a 1TB external drive and network drive set for backup.
 
Originally posted by: Denithor
For video editing, video card actually has little impact. The amount of RAM can be large however. Go for the Studio XPS.

And, no, the 4850 won't have any problem driving two 24" screens.
Click to expand...
This is not necessarily true. Various NLEs have very strict requirements on video cards and setup. Check with the system requirements for the NLE you are using.

 
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