"Is an Avid any better or is this aggravation just part of the job, no matter what system you use?"
Short answer: Yes
However, you really should learn both systems so you can use the best each system has to offer. Also, so you won't turn down any editing jobs.
I like Avid a lot, especially the Trim Edit function, Dig Tool and Media Management. The big 3, I call 'em. For a feature, I'd probably cut it on Avid. As far as speed, I can cut just as fast, if not faster on FCP. You just have to know all the shortcuts and you can operate FCP 100% from the keyboard (much more deep than Avid shortcuts).
If you come from learning the Avid first, FCP is very liberating and fairly intuitive (though the first two weeks are total HELL). If you try it the other way 'round (learning FCP first), it's going to be much more difficult. Avid has a lot more rules, but if you abide by them and take advantage of them, you can really cruise. Especially with narrative.
Two different tools. Two different workflows. My advice, "Don't Think Avid will work the same way as FCP". Find the FCP way, and just do it that way rather than saying, "But in the Avid we can...". You're wasting your own time. Best thing is to hire one on one training from someone that can edit on both programs.
The problem with FCP is too many formats and too many goofballs setting up FCP the wrong way for the intended format. I've even gotten burned by this. Too many options is the cry of most post-houses. Fortunately, there is now ProRes, so like DNxHD, there is a good format for conforming. This should reduce a lot of problems.
Kevin Monahan
www.fcpworld.com
Author - Motion Graphics and Effects in Final Cut Pro
