bwf2qt
bwf2qt converts converts BWF audio files to QuickTime files with embedded
timecode track.
You can use bwf2qt in two ways: Either convert just the files and import
these in FCP, or you can choose to create a batch list, import it in FCP
and reconnect it to the converted QuickTime files. The benefit of doing
this is that more data can be transferred to FCP using a batch list.
A BWF file contain basic information such as timecode and Origination
Time and Date. However, some audio recorders also embeds info like Tape
ID, Notes, Userbits, Scene/Take info etc. This information (if present
in the BWF file) appears in the columns outlined here:
BWF file |
FCP batch list |
Timecode Start |
Media Start |
Timecode End |
Media End |
Scene & Take |
Description |
Tracks |
Tracks |
TapeID / Filename* |
Reel |
Notes |
Log Note |
Take |
Shot/Take |
Scene |
Scene |
Origination Date & Time |
Comment 1 |
Userbits, Originator & Originator ref. |
Comment 2 |
Original BWF Filename |
Comment 4 |
* If options are set to use the embedded TapeID and there is no TapeID
in the BWF file, the original filename without the file extension is used.
To convert some BWF files to QuickTime files follow these steps:
-
Check that the Video Standard setting in the Preferences
Sheet matches the timecode standard you want to use for the conversion.
-
Check that the Batch List version in the Preferences
Sheet is set to the same version of FCP that you're working with.
-
In Sebsky Tools, select menu item bwf2qt under the Tools menu. A file selector
appears. You can select several BWF files at the same time.
-
Under the file selector are the options for the conversion.
You can choose to convert 24 bit audio files to 16 bit.
You can choose to change the sample rate.
You can choose to merge two BWF mono files to one stereo QuickTime
movie.
You can choose either to use the embedded Tape ID (if present) as reel
name, the original file name, the original file name without the file extension
or the first six characters of the original file name without the file
extension as the reel name in the QuickTime file (and optionally batch
list).
You can also choose to generate a batch list containing the clips being
converted and whether the FCP batch list should have an English or French
Header.
Select which timecode standard you want to use for the conversion.
-
Click Convert. Sebsky Tools will present a save panel where you specify
the Destination Folder for the converted QuickTime files. Choose a Destination
Folder and click Select.
-
The conversion starts. If you have choosed to create a batch list a save
panel will apear after the conversion has finished. Save your batch list.
Misc notes:
Sebsky Tools uses the /tmp directory on your system for temporary files
during the conversion.
Note that currently only sample rates up to 48.000 kHz are supported.