Hello. I will try to include all the information required. I bought a Sony DV camcorder (DCR-TRV120 NTSC). I also got a new tower HP a250n with a DVD writer 300n. I bought Sony DVD +R media. I also have several TDK DVD+RW media (what I have been 'testing' on so far). I also went and got a new compatable standalone DVD player, Sony SLV D300P.

Thusfar I have been really self teaching on my own strictly through excess trial and error (as many others, I am sure).

My computer came with a couple of items that I initially tried my hand at. First venture was with Windows Movie Maker2. Nice entry level stuff, LOL. So I've learned by now. What I did manage to do there was to at least get familiar with capture, edit and burn. Naturally these were only .WMP (?) files and even though I was successful somewhat, my dvd's would only play back in my tower.

Next came messin around with the ShowBiz preloaded software that came with the computer. I knew right away it didn't look like it was going to net any more results than Window's Movie Maker.

I have 'Record Now' also.

Okay, so I began seeking to read every single thing I could because I have recorded 7 very important football games (proud mom) and intended to not only figure this out, but to do it well. I am determined to learn this technology until it is like second nature. I have all the equipment, so by gosh I will learn this!

So, coming here, I read and read and read. Based on alot of the articles and forum topic search lurking I have done, I learned quite a lot!

I decided to DL Nero Express (free version) because I wanted to test drive it first. I did read where several have complained about it, etc. etc.

Anyways, I failed many times. And after capturing around 30 second clips repeatedly on to coaster-wannabees(+RWs) ~ I have gotten very very close. I have managed to capture and (I think) format this one home movie. Of course I am at a point where I can NOT figure out WHY I don't have sound at all. It played nicely on my standalone except for some occasional digital-'ness' , which I believe was caused probably through excess rewriting on same disc or else because I failed to turn off my AV software (something else I read on here).

Here is one of the articles I read (and went cross eyed on) https://www.videohelp.com/forum/userguides/179038.php

Is it true (?) I will have to DL or purchase an additional audio decoder? I really would like to make a solid choice of what to DL. I would like to purchase a simplistic program. One that would handle capture, edit, AUDIO, and burning. Ah, that would be so nice! LOL

I have tried and tried. I am sorry if my questions are redundant here. I have read here all day awaiting my 24 hour wait time to expire.

I would so appreciate some guidance here. I can see in forums many are long term posters and experienced. I am not really good at this, but will respond to any questions.

Please, I hope someone answers to me. I am able to open the Nero Info tool if required. I will see if someone replies and will enter in any additional information requested from you.

I thank you all in advance for any replies.

Lorna