ProVideoCoalition have a handy post on how to view Avid .MXF files without having to install Avid. This becomes very useful when all you want to know is what’s inside that folder of confusingly named Avid MXF file.

View inside MXF files

Calibrated Software make a whole host of MXF related products, many of which have a free trial. By installing the free trial of Calibrated{Q}MXF Import you can view up to 30 seconds of the contents of an MXF file outside of Avid Media Composer. The fully functioning program also allows you to edit MXF files natively in FCP. Be sure to check out the PVC post for a full tutorial on how to install and use the program.