I own a copy of Move Edit Pro 12. Can I use the content, ie rain effect in Movie Maker or video effects supplied with the software, in a work intended for sale.
I would really appreciate an easy to understand answer.
From the license.txt file installed wiih my program:
"6. USE OF THE MUSIC, VIDEO AND PHOTO FILES
The music, photo and video files included in the MAGIX products may be used only for non-commercial purposes (exclusively for private purposes).
Only the music files contained in MAGIX Music Maker and MAGIX Soundpool DVD Collection may be used within newly-created musical works for commercial purposes too."
I'm no lawyer, so I can't say where to draw the line. A cross fade is an effect in MEP, but is generic so I'd guess it's OK. but maybe not the rain effect. You might better contact Magix directly as most contributors here are just users like you, not staff. They might say OK as long as you give MEP credits.
Carl is right on the money, however if you choose to purchase Video Pro X, the end user license agreement changes to this:
6. Use of music, video and photo files:
The music, video and photo files included with MAGIX products may be used only within the scope of producing personally created works to be used for commercial purposes. This also applies to music, video or photo data acquired through or by means of MAGIX products. Exploitation of these music, video and photo files outside the scope of personally created works is prohibited.
No huge difference in the application but big difference in the end user license agreement and the price. Don't know why Magix has chosen to use this approach but that is how it is. I would suspect that if someone were to challenge the use of the word "Pro" especially in the state of Califronia, that the case could probably be won in the courts, but who is going to take this on for a $100 application. Just not worth it for most people. All software companies have rediculous terms and conditions that are neither clear, or in some cases legal in all countries. This is still one of the best applications on the market and while I don't advocate violating the end user terms and conditions, I would be willing to challenge the use of the word "Pro" for multiple products if I were ever to be sued based on this very vague and inconsistent use of legal teminology. Just my opinion.
I would be inclined to agree with your opinions but why oh why does the little manual that accompanies the software package state on page 14 that the music. video and graphics files are a comprehensive, license-free media library that is available for free use? Any thoughts?
The statement in the manual is basically giving you the right to use the material without paying a license fee as long as you use it within the terms and conditions of the license agreement. That's how I interpret it but I am not a lawyer.