Trial Version of DaVinci Resolve Studio

I wish there was a trial version of DaVinci Resolve Studio.

I'd like to evaluate how Studio handles 4K AVCHD footage from my Sony XDCAM. According to tech support, there is no trial version.

Why not?

Or, would it be possible to buy Studio and then return the product if I'm not satisfied with how Studio handles this footage?

With many thanks,

Christopher B

would it be possible to buy Studio and then return the product if I'm not satisfied with how Studio handles this footage?

You cannot "return" software products, because you technically don't "own" them (you are only paying for a license that gives you the right to legally use them). I suppose you could purchase the dongle version of Resolve, and if it doesnt work for you, you can sell it on eBay or something.

The free version is effectively the "Trial" version of Resolve Studio. It's missing a few advanced features, but is more than enough to determine if it works for 98% of most people's workflows. You can still load in 4K UHD footage in the Free version, as well as render at UHD resolutions.

What features does the Studio version have that the Free version does not allow you to evaluate?

Thanks for your note.

Sounds like I misunderstood what I was reading, or thought I was reading, on the Blackmagic website.

I thought one needed to buy the Studio version to edit 4K footage. My apologies for not understanding that the free version includes the ability to ingest and edit in 4K.

I remain curious whether anyone has experience specifically with AVCHD footage.

Thanks again for your information, much appreciated,

Christopher B

I don't think this would be a worthwhile endeavor for BMD, for two reasons.

1. Given the total cost of film/video production, spending $300 on Resolve is kind of a no-brainer. Even the mid-range GPU you'd want to be using to really take advantage of Studio will cost you more.

2. I recommend using Optimized Media for all H.264/5 originals, regardless of version or hardware. Doing so would make your concern moot.

I need to confirm that DaVinci Resolve works well with my 10-bit footage before I pull the trigger. Is there a way to get a temporary key (even 2-3 days would be enough to evaluate). I am working on a low-budget documentary so I can't throw $300 for a chance it works well.

"I remain curious whether anyone has experience specifically with AVCHD footage"

I'm going to hazard a guess that all but the higher end systems will struggle with AVCHD at 4K, particularly if you do anything effects/fusion wise. I'm basing that on the assumption that it's a format that is interpreting some of the frames rather than capturing the full information for each.

You'd likely want to be creating optimised proxies anyway, or invest in a setup that can deliver content in an easier codec to work with, such as pro res or DNxHD