What software to use to edit video

[tgm4883]

I just got a Panasonic AG-DVC30 and would like some input on what software I should use to edit my movies. Some of the things I want to do are
1. Add music
2. Fix sound flubs (dubbing?)
3. Make a DVD that loops back to the beginning and keeps playing
4. Make nice transitions and give it a nicer professional look rather than a cut and paste job

I know there are some really great programs out there, but I am trying to keep it in the range of a couple hundred dollars (US) Any suggestions?

[reboot]

Sony Vegas.

[tgm4883]

I'm not trying to sound too cheap (maybe I am) but is there anything in the 200 - 300 dollar range? Vegas is 500 bucks. I just spent $1800 on a video camera, my wallet is feeling kinda tight right now.

[tgm4883]

Well I just checked it, Vegas 6 is roughly $500.00, but at best buy they have a sony vegas movie studio for $99.00 what is the difference between these products?

[edDV]

Best of the low end:

ULead Video Studio 9 (does most things adequately)
Sony Vegas Moviestudio (cut down Vegas 4 with wizzards)
Abobe Premiere Elements (Limited path MiniDV to DVD)

All list $99 but can be found for much less.

After mastering one of these, you will know what more you want-need.

ULead probably has the most to offer in features (even for an intermediate user) but may need more time to learn. Elements is dumbed down to home user level. Sony MovieStudio falls in the middle.

[edDV]

If you were that cheap, you would have bought the GS-200 instead of the AG-DVC30.

But best to learn with an entry program before moving up.

[byteguy]

Use PureMotion's EditStudio for items 1,2, & 4. The new version 5 is even easier to use. Plus, the support is fantastic (developers are on the forums daily). Their "home" version is about $99 and their "pro" version is closer to $200.

DVD-Lab will take your movies and make great DVDs out of them. That's around $100. The developer is about to release a new version called "DVD-Lab Studio" that is based on the code for his super-powerful "PRO" version. He says it will give users 2 audio streams and 1 subtitle stream for a lot less money than Pro costs.

Both programs offer trial version from their websites. DVD-LAB Studio should be available in a matter of days.