Apple has sure been busy with software releases for the Mac lately (for what some claim is an iPod/iPhone company). Final Cut Express 4, is now available, the latest version of the video editing package based on the more elaborate Final Cut Pro 6.

Sporting some new features and several upgrades such as support for new AVCHD cameras and Open Format Timeline, which allows users to place DV, HDV and AVCHD videos on the same continuum, rearranging in real-time. Clips are then automatically scaled, cropped and adjusted for framerate, with the initial clip serving as a template. Resolution is limited to 720p or 1080i.

Final Cut Express 4 now allows importing iMovie ‘08 projects. There are 50 new FxPlug filters, such as Soft Focus, Vignette and Light Rays, with more being available from third-party developers. New for creating animated titles is LiveType 2, which taps into a library of stock fonts, textures and effects. Finally, audio can be pushed to maximum volume with minimum distortion through Soft Normalize and Gain controls.

Final Cut Express 4 requires Mac OS X 10.4.10 or later, as well as an Intel Mac if using AVCHD, and/or up to 1GB of hard drive space with the LiveType stock content. Pricing is $199 or $99 upgrade from earlier versions.