What authoring software to use??

[fulci]

Hello,
I am trying to convert some of my video tapes to DVD using the ADS instant DVD. I've tried using ULead Video Studio 6 but this software frequently crashes my computer. Now, I'm looking for new authoring software. Something basic with simple menus that I can use to output DVD's which will play on my home player. Any suggestions? I did like the trial for SpruceUp but unfortunately I can't buy the full version anymore. Any suggestions??

Thanks,

TC

[Specialist]

I've had Ulead VideoStudio 6 running without trouble on my computer.

Before you gave up on it, did you try the update patches?

They're here:

http://www.ulead.com/tech/vs/vs_ftp60.htm

Version 7 is the latest version.

Jerry Jones
http://www.jonesgroup.net

[mh2360]

Tmpgenc DVD author is very easy to use and very stable, it hasn't crashed once yet for me. Menus are simple to make. It keeps getting better with every new version.

[Vejita-sama]

How much do you want to spend and what do you want to do? If all you want is a video on DVD (no menus, extras, special features) you can do that with IFOEdit (freeware).

The next step up includes programs like DVD Lab (30 fully functional trail) and TMPGenc Author. Both are ~$80 IIRC. DVD Lab is currently the better choice IMHO.

There are also several not so good but not so bad programs (eg. neoDVD) in this price range.

Then you step up to Reel DVD ($600). And Maestro or Scenarist ($2-3k). Adobe's Encore is due out soon as well (price unknown but I'm going to guess ~$300-500).

I'd recommend DVD Lab from the above as it's 30days free and has the most features amoung the low end (at least cost wise) authoring programs.