need help selecting video card

[stl]

Hi, I need some advice on selecting the proper video card for a box I'm building to use only for NL video editing, 3D modeling and animation, DVD stuff, photoshop, graphics stuff in general. I will not be using it for gaming. I heard about the Elsa cards, but only in regard to 3D rendering. Also the 64mb DDR versions cost $600(US).

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Cheffro]

I've used the Matrox RT2000, and the Canopus DVStorm, which are both fantastic when it comes to video editing. I don't know how they do as far as modeling and other such things.. They also tend to be a bit pricey, but if you can find one used, or b-stock or something it may be affordable.

[stl]

Cheffro, thanks for the recommendation, I've considered the matrox, it's highly regarded, unfortunately, like you said it's expensive. Just today I read that elsa is releasing an "intermediate" card the synergy 4 550xgl which, if the spec sheet is true will handle both NLE work and 3d work. It's certified for many apps like lightwave, 3ds max, autocad, etc. and has this mpeg1 & mpeg2 feature that they claim is good for DVD playback, which should make it good for NLE work too. List price should be about $365(US). I don't know if you're interested but thought I'd pass on the info anyway.