DVX PAL model for NTSC DVD's?

[Steve Nunez]

Is there any image quality/ color rendition improvement to be had when using a PAL version DVX edited using FCP5 for eventual use (distribution) on an NTSC DVD?

I've read the PAL version has higher resolution and better color rendition and was wondering if this is lost when an NTSC DVD is made from the source video.

[Jon Fordham]

The short answer is, yes. There is a quality gain by working with PAL. But the long answer is that the gain is likely not worth the handicapped manner in which you'll be forced to work.

I've shot a lot of PAL. Years ago, PAL was the cheapest way of getting that 24fps motion signature without going to HD. But I can't imagine shooting a project for NTSC distribution on PAL today unless I had a very specific reason or requirement.

My advice would be to weigh the pros and cons very carefully...

Pros
Higher vertical resolution.
Better chroma sampling.
No pulldown to deal with.

Cons
Requires standards conversion.
Requires PAL capable monitor for playback.
Gains are minimal.

I would advise that you stick with NTSC. The DVX is abundantly flexible. And should deliver an image that you'll be very satisfied with.

[Steve Nunez]

Thanks Jon- that was the general consensus the DVX network claimed as well- thanks again.