Does anyone use/recommend AVS Video Converter?

[vhsal]

I want something that's easy to use for converting footage from a Mini DV casette camcorder to my PC &/or a DVD using a Windows 8 laptop + a firewire/USB cable. Thank you-Sally

[Peppino]

I recommend TMPGEnc Video Mastering Works.

[julitomg]

You can transfer and convert your AVI DV files with a number of free tools you can find right here on this site, for transfer from camcorder to PC there is WinDV for example, for conversion, well, it depends to what format and how well you know about formats, codecs and containers (because some programs offer more options than others), for simple quick transfers there´s software like Freemake Video Converter (it´s adware, so remember to uncheck unwanted programs and toolbars during installation) , if you need more options take a look at Avidemux, handbrake, Mediacoder, Vidcoder, etc... If you only need to convert to regular DVD files to burn a DVD disc, there´s AVS2DVD etc...
But the important issue is how you´re planning to connect your camcorder to your laptop, have you actually done it before with the adapter cable you mention? most likely it won´t work, search other simmilar threads and you ´ll see.
https://forum.videohelp.com/threads/356235-Camcorder-not-recognized-when-connected-with...irewire-to-USB
https://forum.videohelp.com/threads/351904-Will-I-lose-much-quality-if-I-use-a-firewire-to-USB-cable