I guess what's surprising (well, not surprising since video is still maturing, but frustrating) is that there is no *easy* solution for this.
I need four separate, distinct video channels, going to four separate, distinct outputs. I need to be able to set up cues for the videos in these channels, so the videos can be looping, and then on
cue dissolve or transition some other way into the next video. They won't be long videos, just a ton of 20 or 30 second snippets that loop for five or ten minutes, then
fade into the next looping video.
This really is annoying because I feel like it should be easier than it seems to be. I really can't stress how much I appreciate all the help with it, but I feel like I'm missing something critical - there has to be some way to do this with a
media server or something that has this functionality.
It's not a problem to rent at all, and we're already looking at external research funding and various avenues to make it possible. Really,
throw out my budget requirement, and tell me what the ideal solution is based on these requirements. I really just need to know the absolute smartest, easiest way possible, so I'm not constantly switching between four different computers trying to set up all the various cues and loops that need to happen.
Because some things have to be synced (by ear) to music, I just won't have the time to go between four different computers and make a video change simultaneously - this has to be something where all four timelines, essentially, can be manipulated on one "go".
Maybe that explanation will help clarify more what avenue I'm looking for.
Again, thank you so much for the help - it's given me a better understanding of what's available and help me ruled out some options that won't work.
Thanks!
Chris