Final Cut Pro gets Blackmagic video codecs with new BRAW Toolbox

A new tool called BRAW Toolbox brings native Blackmagic BRAW support to Apple's Final Cut Pro, and it is available to preorder in the Mac App Store with a limited-time discount.

BRAW Toolbox lets Mac users import their Blackmagic RAW files directly into Final Cut Pro without transcoding. The extension prepares all footage before import so users can change the RAW metadata and transfer it from different BRAW video clips.

Users can also save presets for specific metadata attributes. After importing to Final Cut Pro, the RAW metadata can still be modified at any time, and categories such as the ISO, Exposure, Color Temperature, and Tint are available to keyframe.

BRAW Toolbox comes with a Metadata View that allows users to view every piece of BRAW Metadata directly within the Final Cut Pro Inspector.

BRAW Toolbox lets Mac users import their Blackmagic RAW files directly into Final Cut Pro without transcoding

Other features include automatic Decode Quality options for HD and UltraHD projects and the ability to work at a low-quality Decode Quality where a "Global Setting" option will force Full Quality before export.

Blackmagic RAW

Blackmagic Design engineers released its own RAW codec in 2018 to solve problems with traditional video codecs. While these codecs are faster, quality is damaged because of the limitation to 10 bits and the 4:2:2 video filter that's used, which reduces color detail.

The BRAW codec moves part of the de-mosaic processing from the computer's CPU into the camera, resulting in efficient encoding for a new high-performance RAW experience. It uses noise management, sensor profiling, and new edge reconstruction algorithms to produce high-quality cinematic images with depth, crisp details, and image separation.

Pricing & Availability

BRAW Toolbox is available on the Mac App Store for $79.99. However, for the first week of the launch, it will be available for 50% off. There will be no free trial, and will only be available as a one-time payment.