MAC ADAM  Could you unlock the max 30fps to a better like 60fps?  
(Version 2.2.1)

MAC ADAM  Why is not multi cpu optimized ?

it work but could be really better on a MacPro on Snow…  
(Version 2.2)

CORPSECORPS  Hmph!

None of the annoyances fixed in with 2.2! )8^(  
(Version 2.2)

FLASH1296  Priceless.

Works flawlessly under Snow Leopard !  
(Version 2.2)

KATHY VETTER  I love Snapz Pro X, but I am getting a ghost cursor (two cursors) when grabbing a movie of my Web page on a MacBook Pro. I can't figure out how to get rid of the ghost cursor. Can anybody help?  
(Version 2.1.5)

MACSOLU  SIGNIFICANTLY slower than previous version I tried (2.1.2) -- there's a several-seconds delay before the palette appears after I type in command-shift-3 or invoke Snapz Pro from the Dock. Earlier version (2.1.2) appeared almost instantly. YMMV.  
(Version 2.1.5)

CORPSECORPS  Has been a handy and much used piece of software for a long time, but still suffers from a few issues which i've always found HIGHLY annoying:

• Has to share activation short-cut key with the system, preventing

use of the system capture without quitting the Snapz process via

Terminal or Activity Monitor.

• Always adds an unnecessary resource fork to images, which defeats

Leopard's automatic "Icon Preview" so i have to use a context menu

add-on to strip it for EVERY capture!

• LACKS a feature for allowing an "instant" screen shot without UI,

interaction, making it impossible to get shots of full-screen

games in action.

The 2.1.4 and 2.1.5 added nothing i use enough to make much difference to me. Fixes for the above 3 snags would have made it 5 stars straight across.  
(Version 2.1.5)

MISTERSQUID  This is the first time in years that installing an update to Snapz Pro X has not required me to activate/authenticate the program after installation.

As someone with more licenses to more pieces of software than I can keep track of--which leads to an unavoidably unpredictable upgrade schedule--I cannot express how grateful I am not to have to activate my upgrades.

I don't know if this is because I've recently upgraded or because of a change in the installation process but all I can say is MORE LIKE THIS PLEASE!!!

I say this even with (especially with) someone with licenses for competing software.  
(Version 2.1.5)

FRANKO  What's new in v. 2.1.5 (from Read Me)

Changes/enhancements

Snapz Pro X 2.1.5 features the following changes/enhancements:

-- Fixes bugs where audio and/or microphone track were not reliably added to movie.

-- Fixes bug with multipass video when Enforce Frame Rate setting is enabled.

-- No longer requests layer and location information for non-shared windows.   
(Version 2.1.5)

TIM LAWSON  I've been using SnapzPro for years and it's superb in use in every way. Although I'm sure this release launches much faster than the previous one, it does appear to have one glitch for which I've just submitted a ticket to the support guys at Ambrosia and which reads:

"I just upgraded to version 2.1.4 If I check the 'Check for new versions at launch' option in Preferences then, on the subsequent launch I see a dialog that tells me that there's a new version available (2.1.4) with buttons that enable me to "Go to website" or "Cancel" and a list of "What's new". However, the about box tells me I'm running the new version 2.1.4! I also note that when I go back into preferences, the 'Check for new version at launch' box is now unchecked and so, of course, I don't see the dialog described above again unless I re-check it.

Tim.  
(Version 2.1.4)

PONCHO22  I like Snapz Pro X. I have been using it for several years, paying for updates along the way. I currently have 2.1.2.

Here's my reason for commenting:

At every start up (MacPro; OS 10.5) I get a window that tells me of the new version 2.1.3. Fine, except I cannot get it to stop. The options provided in the window are as follows:

A box to check :don’t show this message again.

Then two buttons: Cancel, and Go To Website.

When I tick the "don't show again," my only next option is the Cancel button. This seems to cancel the fact that I checked the don't show again box because it just keeps showing up.

I don't know what to do with this and it is getting annoying enough for me to abandon Snapz Pro altogether.  
(Version 2.1.3)

MACGUY_81  $29 is too much for Snapz Pro, IMO. Mac's built-in Grab handles nearly every still-screenshot need you might have for free (although some of the features are a bit hidden). And for movies, there are many alternatives which I think are better, such as iShowU, Screenflick, etc. Combine the two, and you have a cheaper, more robust, and more up-to-date way of taking care of all your screen capture needs.

(btw, tips on using the macs built in screen-capture:)

Command-Shift-4 to select an area of the screen

Command-Shift-3 to capture the whole screen

Command-Shift-4, then spacebar, to capture a specific window

*Hold down the control key with any of the above to copy the captured image to the clipboard instead of a file

and here's a post on how to change the file format, too (from PNG to JPG or w/e you want): http://bravobug.com/news/?p=155  
(Version 2.1.3)

MONOCLAST  This is too little, too late, Ambrosia. You had a good product in Snapz Pro several years ago. Since then, you've let it languish. Long-standing bugs persist, and features that should have been updated ages ago stayed the same for far too long.

I can't tell you how infuriating it is to record a movie only to watch Snapz Pro create the movie file on the desktop only to just as quickly remove it never to be sen again, just because some QuickTime codec changed and Snapz threw up because of it. It's just as aggravating to have Snapz refuse to react to the assigned keyboard shortcut!

Way back in 2005, I submitted a simple feature request to Ambrosia regarding the fact that Snapz won't remember which shadow setting you make according to the type of screen shot you take. If I typically take full screen shots with no shadow, and window shots with the normal window shadow, and selection shots with the square shadow, why must I constantly switch back and forth? I suggested that Snapz Pro would be much better if it would remember which shadow I use for each type of screen shot . In all this time, Ambrosia hasn't bothered to respond:

I mentioned it to them again in 2007 - again with no response:

In 2006, I asked about an option to have Snapz Pro NOT restore the cursor to it's original position after taking a screen shot. It may seem to be a good idea to restore the cursor position, but it is unnerving and non-intuitive at best, if you ask me. Ambrosia never responded:

I've since tried Screen Flick and it's great. Sorry, Ambrosia.  
(Version 2.1.3)

ESPIRIDION  I've used this application quite a bit, both to capture screen shots and to create movies. I'm very satisfied with Snapz Pro X.

I had not seen its reviews here or at VersionTracker, and -based on my experience- was surprised by some of the low ratings.

It's been interesting to read the comments, as well as Ambrosia's responses to many of them. Many software developers don't even visit these type of forums. I prefer to first contact customer support directly. Later on I may post about my support issues and experiences in a forum and/or a review.

I searched for more information regarding Snapz Pro, and found an interesting site which has reviews for iShowU HD 2/ShowU HD Pro 2, Screenium 1.0, Screenflick 1.6.2, Screen Mimic 2.1, Snapz Pro X 2.1.0.

http://machouse.mhvt.net/

Notice that Snapz Pro's review is for an older version, but as recently as September 2008, they mentioned:

"We have reviewed several screen-capture applications in the past. So far, none of them except Ambrosia’s Snapz Pro X functions with our satisfaction..."

They do point out some of Snapz Pro's issues and limitations, but as far as I could tell Snapz Pro still got the highest rating of 5 stars.

And although I tend to disagree with many of their reviews, I think that Macworld also gave Snapz Pro 5-mice.

The only issue I've had with Snapz Pro came up one or two days ago. I had to take a screenshot of a website's pulldown menu, but as I switched from my browser to take the screenshot the menu went away. I ended up timing the shot using Grab. Maybe Snapz Pro can also do it, but using Grab was quicker than contacting support or reading a manual :-)

So based on my experience, after trying maybe 4 or 5 other screen capture applications, I'm giving Snapz Pro 5-stars.

It's not perfect, I don't like the installer approach, I don't like that some bugs remained present for so long, but for my needs it has worked extremely well.

I'm also happy that this was a free update, and not a paid upgrade to 2.2 or 2.5 or 3.0 as many companies tend to do these days.  
(Version 2.1.3)

TICE  The software is quite good, but what really bothers me is that expiring license code that forces you to renew your serial number again and again online. What if I don't be online for a few month in my cabin in the woods? What's then?? Can't I use my paid Snapz Pro anymore?

That is Adobe style! Wish I had bought Screenium or another competitor. : (  
(Version 2.1.2)

BEIGE  I'm also one of those users that loves the functionality of this app but the constant, incessant hard drive caching is a big problem. If you want to see for yourself, download fseventer and run while Snapz Pro is sitting in the background. Your drives are being charred by this app.  
(Version 2.1.2)

GRYPHONENT  No bug fixes for over a year? Bad user experiences and lack of customer support! Stay away from Ambrosia these days. I've ditched my registered copy of Snapz Pro for Screenium now.  
(Version 2.1.2)

ANDY49  I contacted Apple about this same problem that WINGS is experiencing. Apple said it was Ambrosia's fault and Ambrosia blamed Apple's last OS update. My hard drives are constantly cranking away and even caused a drive to fail. Apple replaced this drive, but the problem still exists. It took me quite awhile to find the culprit, which is Snapz Pro X 2.1.2. Quitting the process in Activity Monitor is the only solution aside from uninstalling Snapz Pro X 2.1.2. AMBROSIA PLEASE STOP DENYING THAT THIS PROBLEM IS YOURS. FIX IT!  
(Version 2.1.2)

WINGS  Snapz still has the issue of causing a disk write about every 2 seconds. This is keeping my Mac from automatically going to sleep after a period of inactivity. As a workaround, I keep it in the dock and activate it when needed, but after my capture I must THEN bring up Activity Monitor to quit the process. I usually don't remember to do that until the next morning when I see my Mac is still awake. (In my case, I think I'm triggering this problem due to having many icons on my desktop. I read somewhere that this can cause the disk activity. Strange, yes.) And why is this important? A MacPro V8 pulls 205 watts at idle, and 12 watts asleep. 2 kilowatt hours per day, times 365 days, is around 60 bucks a year additional cost for not sleeping. I could buy a copy of SnapzPro(+movies) every year for that.... or not.

This has been a problem for quite some time. Can't you fix it?  
(Version 2.1.2)

THECAUSE  From the get go Snapz Pro X 2.1.2 is obnoxious with a startup screen that takes a very long time to go away at every launch. Further more, its interface further invades your workspace by requiring you to click again to do something simple like a screen shot. Very invasive, would work better with assigning key commands for each function. (apple+shift+2 for video, apple+shift+3 for screen, etc.) It also corrupted my screen shot button (apple+shift+4), making it give me an error every time I used it. The only redeemable feature is the movie capture mode, and you can now get this from Copernicus for free dollars as opposed to spending $29 and having a bloated app on your computer to take video.  
(Version 2.1.2)

IERIKA  the interface sucks  
(Version 2.1.2)

MR. B  Absolutely wonderful! I use this app all the time to create video tutorials for my 6th grade science students. I have had zero problems and wonderful results. Highly recommended.  
(Version 2.1.2)

BOSIE  Hi, after installing QT 7.4.5 update Snapz Pro fails to launch. Anyone else? Thanks

06/04/2008 13:01:43 com.apple.launchd89 (0x0-0x56056.com.ambrosiasw.snapz8969) Exited with exit code: 255  
(Version 2.1.2)

PEN_SQ  Snapz Pro X conflicts with VLC. Every time VLC plays a movie with any output mode besides ascii-art, it crashes. No Quartz, no GL, only ugly Text works. On the plus side, Snapz has an excellent uninstaller, once the kernel module was removed, VLC was back in business.

Quicksilver will break Snapz' attempt to set up a key binding. This can easily be remedied by setting up a binding in QS, just set an open action on Snapz Pro X.app.

It's a good trade-off if you happen to be filming "you suck at Photoshop", Jing doesn't have the performance for quality captures.   
(Version 2.1.2)

UNCOY  After two absolutely serene and crash free weeks (after finally getting Default Folder X off of my system), I made the mistake of installing this monster after picking it up in Macheist.

I do a lot of screen capture so I thought SnapZ might be a help. I was a bit apprehensive when I saw the archaic package installed (since when does an app need an installer package - those are for Apple when I'm building my system).

But like Sleeping Beauty I couldn't take my eyes off the needle.

Immediate kernel panic on launch of Snapz Pro X.

The system ran for fifteen minutes the next time and even allowed me to use SnapZ Pro for ten minutes before another kernel panic. Some nice

Subsequently I uninstalled it using the accompanying uninstaller.

On a hunch, I used Devon's EasyFind to do a search on SnapZ including invisible files.

Everything to the trash. App itself zipped up and original thrown away.

Still another kernel panic.

Nasty, expensive crashware. Stay away.

I've gone back to built in screen capture (to PNG - TinkerTool let's you change the default format) and a quick trim in an image editor before saving out to a small web version in GIF or JPEG. BTW, compression with Photoshop results in GIF files which are half the size of what Snapz Pro X generates. If you need something with more automation (Windows), Snap N Drag from Yellow Mug is a great choice (available in a huge bundle with other useful software for half the price of Snapz Pro).

At this point I'm hoping I've got all of SnapZ Pro X out of my system and that Ambrosia didn't mess something hidden up during the half an hour I was fool enough to allow them on my hard drive.

(This is not a bleeding edge Leopard issue. I'm running good old 10.4.8.)  
(Version 2.1.2)

DONMONTALVO  To clarify...Apple's screencapture can take grabs on local and remote computers.

Don  
(Version 2.1.1)

DONMONTALVO  It's been a while since I've used SnapzPro since it lagged behind (lack of universal binary for a very long time). There are other solutions out there, including Apple's own "screencapture" terminal tool (for taking screenshots on remote computers), ScreenCaptureX, etc.

I'm using Snapz Pro X again, but I don't include it in my login items list. I launch it when I need it (I keep the icon on my Dock).

Don  
(Version 2.1.1)

JRWHO  This is really great for taking screenshots, it has a ton of features, and it’s easy to use.  
(Version 2.1.1)

PMALOS  Fast and stable on Intel Macs now that it's finally a Universal Binary. No other screen shot tool is its equal in usability.  
(Version 2.1)

KOBEGUY  Once upon a time, it was essential kit, but lack of development, a king's ransom in pricing, and no intel version have the masses crying out for a decent alternative. The current version is unreliable at best, and not especially easy to work with. The only redeeming feature is the video/motion capture function, which either doesn't work or doesn't work well. Not worth your money until they come up with a decent update, or are hopefully replaced by a competitor who cares about what they are doing.  
(Version 2.0.2)

GDS  Is is rather unfortunate that Snapz Pro is the only game in town for reliable screen capture-to-video utility... it's been months that the developer has not provided an Intel-compatible version.

The software is also a bit annoying in subtle ways, from the nineties-style splash screen that can't be disabled, to the ugly mix of useful interface sound effects with obnoxious voice recordings ("That's a wrap!", "Cut!"). As you can guess, the annoying voice recordings cannot be disabled separately from the more appropriate sounds effects...

If another developer were able to come up with an Intel compatible screen capture utility that wasn't overpriced, slighly annoying and it actually worked, dumping Snapz Pro would be high on my list. As it is right now, this is the only reliable product for screen-to-video capture on Macs with PowerPC processors.  
(Version 2.0.2)

IAMDORIAN  Over the last two years this application has worked ever time for me; this on a Dual 1.8 MHz PCI-X PowerMac. However, video capture is processor intensive and likely taps into the hardware, so some machines could have trouble, I suppose.

However, the fact that this app is not YET compatible with the Intel models is quite disheartening. There is (as of yet) no comparable program, so it's an old case of supply and demand. Some stiff competition would be a good thing about now!

Note: When SnapZ Pro works, it works well. However, a movie/screencap program should be about a $10.00-$20.00 piece of shareware. The pricing has always put me off a bit.

P.S. Apple SHOULD buy this thing from the developer and include this on every Mac...!  
(Version 2.0.2)

BOSIE  Is it just me or is snapz pro no longer able to screen capture movies? I have sound, one frame of movie then a white screen. G5 Quad 10.4.6  
(Version 2.0.2)

HUEVOX  I have owned Snapz Pro for over 2 years. In that time it has only worked about 4 months. It is the most frustrating application I have ever used. I spent a lot of time eMailing, removing plists, rebooting, attempting to change preferences, and all to no avail. Now it takes snaps only in pdfs.

In a couple of places, a MANUAL is mentioned, but I was never able to find a place to download it. I am sure the developers mean well, but they have made it just tantalizing enough to drive users crazy.

I have decided to relegate this to the same fate as Earthbrowser. I will erase all vestiges of it from my life, and that includes the serial number.  
(Version 2.0.2)

MIKE93  Doesn't work as of the latest security update, the videos are less than 100k, and there's nothing in them but one frame.. Still great software!  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  actually it does work. im running 10.4.3 and its fine!

GREAT APP  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  When I purchased SnapzProX2 for the Mac back in February 2005 I was really hoping that it would capture a scrolling webpage window in the same way that HyperSnapz or SnagIt does on the PC. With these programs you can automatically scroll capture a very long webpage and then save and edit the file. With SnapzPro2 you cannot automatically scroll capture a long document you can only capture a single window at a time and its a real problem for me. When automatic scrolling window capture happens then I will be using SnapzPro. Surely with Mac OS X Tiger automatic scroll capture of a long document should be possible?

BS London UK  
(Version 2.0.2)

C  Can't install, error id -75. Not good, folks.  
(Version 2.0.2)

GARY IN CANADA  I've been holding off on getting this app mostly because of the price for the movie capture feature, but finally made the plunge. Contrary to a few posts here, Snapz Pro does work in Tiger (I'm using it on my G4 iBook running 10.4.2). Snapz runs in the background and should only be activated or deactivated using the keyboard shortcut. Trying to run or quit the app using the app icon or the dock can cause real problems.

The extra features makes still screen grabs highly customizable, but the real beauty is in the movie capture which allows the user to grab any video playable on the screen to be converted and exported to the highly editable Quicktime format. Want to edit or reuse Windows Media or RealMedia, DVD clip, or any exotic codec? This is your bonafide, hassle-free, don't-need-ten-different-codec-apps short cut.

My only gripe is the price, but it can potentially replace several apps that can accomplish your mission in one fell swoop. If you've got the cash, I recommend.  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  I have bought Snapz Pro X 2.0 for making tutorial movies.

For some reason cursor is not visible on my final movies.

Yes, I have read the manual thoroughly.

Yes, I have checked "Movie settings".

Cursor visible check box is checked.

I even can see the cursor in the preview box.

But cursor still is not present in the final movie.

I uninstalled the Snap Pro, deleted preferences etc.

Then install the software again. No luck.  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  Too complex to understand and use conveniently

Froze my Mac G4 (2 * 1.25g) what had never happened before with any software

The uninstaller worked fine and simply (thanks god)  
(Version 2.0.2)

JOE CROWE  Useful for the movie feature. I use it to put together training videos for software etc. Easy to use and customize. I agree that the thing was PIIIICCCKKY with movie audio on the last version. This one is, however, does not have that problem. It took a good long while, but Ambrosia never fails to resolve issues.  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  "immediately save anything visible on screen...you don't have to tell people about how cool a game is or how to use a particular program -- you can just take a picture or movie of it and show them."

False. It does not work with at least one game I can think of (Everquest).

Does this version still have the annoying startup splash screen that can't be turned off?  
(Version 2.0.2)

TONY AGUILA  Ever since 2.0 first came out it never remembers my registration number. Every time an update comes out it prompts you to acquire a new code, which I do, and it works the first time you enter it, but the next login or restart, it asks for your code all over again. The biggest problem I've had is that if you use their uninstaller, it will wipe out your whole login items list. Horrible.

I guess this is battered user syndrome, but I keep trying it every time they come out with an update. I need to make a note never to use this piece of crap again.  
(Version 2.0.2)

SPAM ON TOAST  does this version finally fix the bug whereby snapz pro will open "off-screen" if last time it was used its palettes were placed on an external monitor which is no longer connected?  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  Cough .... "FREESNAP" (its free).  
(Version 2.0.2)

ANONYMOUS  If you are using Snapz Pro 2.01, and can't get the audio track to work in your movies, here is how I did it (with the help of mouse and others):

1. Update the file called AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext to version 1.0.7

Go to your HD: System: Library: Extensions.

Click on the file called "AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext". Get Info on it (Command-I). If it is NOT version 1.0.7, you need to do the following weird upgrade steps (and no I'm not joking):

a.-- Drag this AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext file to the trash; you'll need to enter your User password to do this, since it's a system level file. If it helps you to feel safe, don't empty the trash yet, in case you want to put back this old non-working file again).

b.-- Go download and install Ambrosia's WireTap Pro. You don't have to pay for it, and you can even delete the program afterwards, but WireTap Pro has a **later version** of this AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext file than SnapzPro 2.0.1 (which installs an extension of version 1.03).

c.-- Ok, now you have a working AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext v 1.07 installed. Restart.

2. Open up Snapz Pro 2.0.1. Click on the Movie button, which will bring up both a screen record area, and a "Movie Settings" window.

3. In the "Movie Settings" window, make sure that both Microphone Track and Mac Audio Track checkboxes are checked.

4. Make a short test movie. Talk out loud to make some audio. Hit the hot keys (by default, Command-Shift-3) to stop the movie. You'll hear a "Cut!" sound.

5. In the resulting window that appears right after the "Cut!" sound, you'll see 3 checkboxes. Next to the "Include Audio Track" and "Include Microphone Track" options, are a "Settings" button. Click each of those buttons, and simply close them. (Don't ask why; this is just the temporary workaround for now). Be sure to open and close BOTH of those Settings buttons.

6. Now hit the Save button.

The resulting movie should now contain sound.

The reason I'm posting this is because it irks me to no end when otherwise great software companies don't take the time to spell out—clearly, in step-by-step language that any new user can understand— the things to make their software work. It took me over 2 hours to figure out this workaround this morning. Chances are that 5,000 users around the world have spent these same two hours trying to figure this out. That Ambrosia didn't take that into consideration is a crime.

Hope this helps.

tuqqer

http://www.howhealthworks.com

Using: G5, 2Ghz (first model), 2.5 gigs of RAM, OS 10.4 Tiger (from a complete and utter clean install, porting over NOTHING (not one setting or user/network settings) except documents.  
(Version 2.0.1)

ANDREW  For those who have been having trouble with getting Mac Audio Capture to work with Snapz Pro X on Tiger and the later builds of OS X, pre Tiger and or OS X Tiger. After much testing and google searching for opinions as well as the manufactuers site....

The problem seems to be the version of "AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext" in the System/Library/Extensions folder. The version I had working before Tiger was 1.0.3 I think... but there is a later version installed with the Wire Tap app.

You need not have to buy it,.. just download the demo, and hit install, but do this first. Find and get info on the AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext" file. If not at version 1.0.7 or higher, you should then move it to your desktop. Next install Wire Tap and see if a new "AmbrosiaAudioSupport.kext" file installs, .... get info and if the 1.0.7 version you should be all set...

Reboot and off you go. If for some reason you can checkbox the record mac audio, but it still comes muted... record another short clip of picture n sound... go to audio setting on export and change it to anything else.. Apparently it may be a newer version of Quicktime cookie thing. Then save file, and go back to creating the movie capture that you really wanted. You could do another short test clip to verify it works, but this should keep you going at least between restarts... or longer.

I am on Tiger on a G5. I replaced the extension. Did the audio change setting fix and Snapz Pro X 2.0.1 is working awesome, even after restarts. And with Quicktime Pro, I think I get more options with the Quicktime 7 underpinnings of OS X.

I hope this helps all you Snapz Pro X users as I am a very happy camper...

Now I need to save up and get a copy on my home machine as I use it at work.  
(Version 2.0.1)

ANONYMOUS  I've been using the capture to movie

feature of the software (SnapZ Pro X)

and am quite pleased with the overall

performance.

The software is easy to use with options

to choose size of screen, frame rate etc,

all laid out in a simple and intuitive

way.

I only have 2 complaints (which explains

my 4 star and not 5 star rating):

There's a bug in audio. If you save a movie to the desktop you lose the audio

feed. Saving to any other place (I used

my Pictures directory) fixes the problem.

The demo software constantly asks you

if you want to register and pay for

the licensed version. It was so aggressive that it was obnoxious and

almost a put off to wanting to buy

the software. There's no need for

stuff like this (I hope SnapZ

is paying attention here)  
(Version 2.0.1)

ANONYMOUS  Regarding the audio problem people are having, this is a post from the Ambrosia forum:

This is a known bug. After a restart, you need to click on the "Settings..." button for the audio settings you're using, otherwise a QuickTime cookies is not initialized, and the audio will not be saved.

A similar thing happens with the video, using certain codecs.

The easiest way around this (until 2.0.2 comes out) is to record a short (junk) movie, then click on the Settings... button for both the video and audio track (just clicking OK without changing the codec/compressor is fine), then delete the movie.

You'll be good to go until you reboot your machine again. We're aware of this bug, and realize it is annoying... it will be fixed.  
(Version 2.0.1)

BOSIE  I've had Snapz Pro since it was launched. It used to be an excellent app but the developpers seem to have taken the money and run. It is now quite useless, even the quicktime movies that are produced are 'not a file that Quicktime understands'. I lost my money, I'm guessing there a lots who did.  
(Version 2.0.1)

THEPHASE  Is there an alternative to this application for MOTION/MOVIE CAPTURE? Seems like a lot of people are having serious problems with it. I was THIS close to buying it to teach some friends how to do things on the Mac.  
(Version 2.0.1)

G4 IN FLIGHT  Told you guys long time ago. The only thing is so call good in this software is you can record video and it also provides auto drop shadow in still shot. Other than that, it's over priced and they ignore all questions to be answered. They thought that they are on the top of the world, but I think they're going down...due to their ignorance. Just stay away from this software. Ypu wouldn't get any thing good from them any more.

Good luck guys.  
(Version 2.0.1)

ANONYMOUS  Yep, no audio in Snapz when running Mac OS 10.3.5 and no response from Ambrosia.  
(Version 2.0.1)

GOAT  Soon as I hit return I get static filled sound, what's up with that. I need something like this, and would pay, but not if it doesn't work.  
(Version 2.0.1)

LEO OF BORG  To Mac_MX, this is possible in the setting. Just don't include sound in the movie, and mix in something else later.

Or maybe you want Snapz to save the video demuxed from the audio? Either way, the movie that comes out is native Quicktime and can be edited not only with iMovie, but Quicktime Pro.

-THIS- is what makes Snapz Pro so powerful.  
(Version 2.0.1)

MAC_MX  SnapzProX 2 is great. Moovie capture is impresive. Sound works for me, but I prefer to grab only the movie with out sound and then "put" the sound with iMovie. AluBook 17 inch, 1.33 Mhz with 1 GB RAM.  
(Version 2.0.1)

GARY  My experience is that this company does not honor its own software licenses with respect to upgrades. Furthermore, a good number of the primary functions in ShapZ Pro are available for free within OS X. Those that are not offered for free are often available via freeware from third party developers (ref: FreeSnap).  
(Version 2.0.1)

BIG BAD BURT  This generally works pretty good. A few exceptions with movies, though: The program takes a long time to load at startup. When capturing in movie mode, the audio tends to hiccup a bit - not terrible, but annoying. When prompted to save the movie, there is a slight delay which tends make you hit the save button again and thus causing you to lose your capture unless you hit the "save later" button which just doesn't work right.(I'm using an aluminum G4-1.25 Powerbook)  
(Version 2.0)

JKISH2  With as many software developers out there for the Mac platform, you'd think there would be at least one screen capture tool where you could specify the dpi.  
(Version 2.0)

ANONYMOUS  i can´t manage to run Snapz pro X 2.0 on OSX 10.3.2 ?! I did serveral installations, did a repair permissions etc. cause i read about the conflict with the system screenshot util...

...the splash screen shows up, than the app seems to quit... it is not in backround or somewhere else. I can´t see anythin of the GUI or even the prefs...

Anyone else with this behavior? Please help me...

tia  
(Version 2.0)

ANONYMOUS  I'm pretty disappointed with this hyped up Mac shareware utility. I use Snagit v7 with Virtual PC because it can take intervaled screenshots of my Windows based day trading software and output the screenshots to a folder in any image format and much more. Then I use Quicktime Pro to make a movie from the still image sequences. These screencapture functions should be the most obvious features of a screenshot utility. Snagit has all the image and video capabilities of SnapzPro and is $10.00 cheaper. Some Mac utilites come close, but unfortunately they're either restricted to intervals of seconds, do not output to folders, do not schedule or do not allow you to select any type of window. However, at least they are FREE.  
(Version 2.0)

SNAG  Can the startup splash screen finally be disabled in this version?  
(Version 2.0)

BENHUR  Just thought I'd give Snapz its due review. Honestly, I thought the previous versions movie capture flat out stunk. I was thinking that a G5 must be needed but then I tried the new version and did a 640 by 480, 30fps capture and it worked beautifully. I was using a G4 450 and it was great. Grant it, I wouldn't try this on my iMac G3 450 and expect the same results but I was impressed with the improvement from V.1 to V.2. The ease of use and features are still top notch. I've been waiting for this upgrade for a while and it thankfully delivered.  
(Version 2.0)

POLYP  click on menu.... spinning clock for several seconds... menu appears.... go to scroll mouse down menu items... mouse disappears.... random menu item about 3/4 of the way down menu highlights briefly.... mouse reappears at bottom of screen... menu disappears... roll mouse up to try again.... mouse disappears.... mouse eventually reappears somewhere at the top of the screen...

hmm... that was my experience when trying to shoot a small [640x480] movie of that incredibly processor intensive operation ..er... popping up a menu in the finder. now that might be what passes for "...we're talking fullscreen, 30fps video capture without breaking a sweat...." at ambrosia, but to me it looked just as clunky and unusable as previous versions.

snapz pro's a lovely still image capture tool, but no way does its video capture capabilities merit the hyerbole ambrosia are currently giving them. [G3 500mhz, 640Mb RAM].  
(Version 2.0)

MATT SLOT / AMBROSIA SOFTWARE  In response to the previous post about expiring keys...

After you receive a license code, you have 30 days to enter it on your system. Once registered the software remains unlocked forever, unless you wipe the hard disk or reinstall the OS from scratch. If you don't enter the code within 30 days, or you need to install it again on a new system, you can request a new code (at no charge) over the web, over email, over the phone, or automatically using the enclosed Register application and an Internet connection.

Let me repeat, the license code only expires if you don't enter it within 30 days.

In addition, Snapz Pro X does not "phone home" without a specific request from the user. Some of our products have online version checks, but nothing about you, your computer, or your registration is transmitted -- and in all cases, it can be disabled in the preferences. The only time the software sends us data is when you click the big "Renew" button to request a new license code.

As for other screen capture utilities, I think you'll find that the updated Snapz Pro X 2.0 is far and away better than anything else on the market. We're talking fullscreen, 30fps video capture without breaking a sweat.

I don't want to turn this into an advertisement, but I did want to clear up some details. Try the software and let us know what you think.  
(Version 2.0)

ANONYMOUS  BEWARE! The keys you buy for this software EXPIRE. There's a "phone-home" mechanism to renew the key but this often doesn't work, meaning you can't use the software you paid for until someone at Ambrosia writes back to you. Even if the mechanism above did work, it's still a registering key, like with Microsoft Windows XP -- essentially a form of spyware telling Ambrosia that their software is running on your machine.

The worst thing about this is that they don't mention at any time during the purchase process that you're getting an expiring key. This strikes me as something close to fraud -- you are unable to make a rational choice as a consumer about this product until it's too late. They know if they were up-front about this, many consumers would stay away from their product, so instead of changing their business practices to be competitive in the marketplace, they just trick us. You don't even find out your key is expiring until one day you need to use Snapz Pro and you can't because it's expired. Let's hope at that time your need is not urgent, or the auto-renew mechanism they have works correctly! It didn't for me.

Having said all that, this product is the most capable in terms of overall features when compared to similar products in the Mac market. This is especially true when it comes to recording video from your screen. I have only done a small amount of screen video recording and Snapz Pro performed well in that area. While I have not personally tested similar video-capture products on the Mac, I note they are poorly-rated, and I can say Snapz Pro approximates the performance of similar products on Windows.

If you simply want to view part or all of your screen as a JPEG or similar, Snapz Pro does a fine job at this, but I would note there are better tools than Snapz Pro which also cost much less and do not come with heavy-handed licensing. I recommend that you look at SnapNDrag.

In terms of stability, sometimes Snapz Pro froze on me and was unable to continue to operate; I had to force-quit it. On occasion, I had to reboot before it would work again. I have not used Snapz Pro in months, so it is possible they have fixed these problems since then.

In summary, if you need video capture on the Mac, Snapz Pro may be your only reasonable option. If not, I recommend you go with another product (such as SnapNDrag) because of the high cost of Snapz Pro, because of the intrusive and inconvenient licensing, and because other products are simply more easy-to-use if static screen capturing is all you need.  
(Version 1.0.9)

ANONYMOUS  On updating, the snapz pro icon freezes in my dock and the app stutters like it is about to crash.  
(Version 1.0.9)

JAMES BISHOP  This just in...

If Snapz Pro is running in the background, and then the application is

opened again, either by doubleclicking on it, or if it is opened from

the dock, SP X will commit digital hari kari- meaning it will suspend

itself.

Once SP X has been opened, the only way it should be invoked is by

using the hot keys - command shift 3 by default.

In order to be sure you are back to the default sentings, trash the

Snapz Pro Prefs - go to your Home directory, to Library, and then

preferences and trash the com.ambrosiasw.snapz.plist file.

Then reboot the machine, open SP X by double clicking, or adding it to

the login items and then restarting, and invoke it by pressing command

shift 3. Launching the already open application will stop SP X from

being invoked, and may cause your machine to hang on shut down.

The developer is aware of the problem, and will be addressing it in an

update.  
(Version 1.0.8)

FLIMMITZEN  Try FreeSnap or SnapnDrag or SnapClip  
(Version 1.0.8)

CHUCK  I still can't get 1.0.8 to work continuesly. I have reverted to 1.0.6 and am happy with the older version.  
(Version 1.0.8)

FRANKS  I have been using SnapzPro2 and X for years. Never had a problem. I had some initial problems with this version (1.0.8) but an Email to the developer cleared it up. Thanks Ambrosia!  
(Version 1.0.8)

WAZZAMATTAU  for those of us who don't want to spend the money for Snapz, there's FreeSnap.  
(Version 1.0.8)

ANONYMOUS  1.0.8 works like a charm. Great grab tool, especially if you have the movie capture upgrade.  
(Version 1.0.8)

ANONYMOUS  Very capable, very over-priced.  
(Version 1.0.8)

NORMAL1  The very best screen capture tool around, but it would be nice to know that the posted update is not free..

The cost of this update is not apparent until you have installed it. The cost of the update is way too much for what you get in terms of value. Useful app, but not real value for money.  
(Version 1.0.7)

ANONYMOUS  If you don't need the video capture, just use command shift 4  
(Version 1.0.7)

KEVIN BUCHANAN  Simply the best screen capture software ever. Works very well on all my Macs - I didn't pay for the video capture, as I have no use for it, but still capture works flawlessly.

Also, you CAN prevent the splash screen from being displayed - simply set up Snapz Pro in your Login Items, and click the "Hide" checkbox. It starts up hidden - voila, no more splash screen!  
(Version 1.0.7)

SNAG  It does the job pretty well. Nice features, but there is still no way to turn off the exceptionally annoying startup splash screen. I paid for this software and I should be able to turn this off if I desire to do so. So, I am removing one star for this "feature."   
(Version 1.0.7)

ANONYMOUS  Great for screen capture of still shots, but movie capture is unusable as even at the lowest settings (1 frame per second, 10% scale) the cursor jumps around so much as to make the machine unusable. So don't buy the full version if you want to be able to capture what you are doing on the machine. $20 more for movie capture is not worth it! Slow to invoke capture under 10.2.  
(Version 1.0.6)

ANONYMOUS  Snapz Pro for OS X is a great utility and does a very good job of capturing both still and QuickTime movies of the desktop, applications, or individual application windows.

Unfortunately, they don't tell you that their license expires after you buy it. If you're like me and are using Snapz Pro to capture software under development, it's not uncommon to rebuild your machine several times a month. The fact that the license expires isn't mentioned at any point during the purcasing process and now I'm stuck with a product that I paid for for can't activate. The only way to get a new license is to email the company and hope that they get back with you in a reasonable amount of time.

Final score: product - great, license expiration - stinks. That's why I'm not giving this app a 5 for value.  
(Version 1.0.1)