need suggestions on tools to use for making DVD's

[leinan]

Hi again, I need some help on what tools to use to be able to make/create DVD's out of avi/divx files and burn it with nero or if the tool(s) being suggested can burn it. I'm using Nero Vision 4 and find it very easy to use. Is there any other tool(s) that I can use to make custom/template menus, adding text, titles and chapters name, customized picture background, adding audio background to menu (but not limited to 20s like nero vision), can join 2 or more avi video files. The reason for this is because I'm dissappointed about the audio background of nero vision coz' it is limited only to 20s if only nero vision can accomodate atleast 1min. Thank you in advance.

[thecoalman]

Ulead DVD Workshop and DVD Lab Pro both allow you to start with a blank slate, both are not cheap. DVD Lab Pro has quite a learning curve, Workshop is fairly easy to use but is double the price. Comparing the two as far as ability DVD Lab Pro has more advanced DVD authoring features, Workshop has minor video editing capability, onboard MPEG2 and AC3 encoding, tons of templates and buttons...etc. In other words DVD Lab is strictly for making DVD's, Workshop has a few more extras.

Not sure if there is any limitations for audio tracks on the menu but Ulead Movie Factory is pretty cheap but you cannot create entirely custom menus with it.

[leinan]

Thanks thecoalman for your reply I'll think it over, I just hope there's more to suggest by anyone here. I'll just wait and hope to hear more from other(s) who wants to suggest.

[tinker]

TMPGEnc DVD Author3 will except DivX to make DVD with menu and chapters and burn.
They have trial version.
DVD Lab is an excellent software, but for about $270US. It will not except any other format than Mpeg2 DVD compliant or VOB (DVD File). You will need other software to convert your DivX to Mpeg2.
There is one (free) ConvertXtoDVD. I do not use it so do not know how good it is , but lots of people in these forums do.

[thecoalman]

I'll just wait and hope to hear more from other(s) who wants to suggest.

There might be something else out there but when you put the two words custom and menu together the prices rise dramatically.

[ntscuser]

I'd go with TMPGEnc DVD Author (TDA) as the next step up from Nero Vision. More sophisticated programs can wait till you've had some experience with TDA. I still use it occasionally for rush jobs.

[leinan]

Thanks for the suggestions!

There might be something else out there but when you put the two words custom and menu together the prices rise dramatically.

yeah, I know that, been visited the DVD Lab Pro and I think I'll try it first coz' am still not that good in making dvd's especially menus.

I've heard TMPGEnc, will also try to visit the web site

Thanks again just hope that I may be able to make the right choice before buying it.

[tinker]

Hi leinan
If you want to get involved in DVD making than DVD Lab is a good investment. It is very flexible software which will let you use DVD commands for navigation, if in future you will need it.
You can make your own menus (not that difficult), custom connections and more.
Like I said before, only problem is that you need Mpeg2 or VOB format first so it involves other software.
TMPGEnc Author is good, but basic. If you want to make just one or two DVD than it is OK. However it will import and convert most file formats to Mpeg2 DVD format.

[dwill123]

I use Ulead's DVD Workshop Express, a smaller less feature full version of Ulead's DVD Workshop. It has everything I need and is pretty easy to use. I got my copy on an email special last year from Ulead. I paid $75.

[Relayerman]

I use TMPGEnc DVD Author 2 and it will do just about anything you want to create menus. I'm not sure why some folks think its basic cuz its not. Its quite flexible. Yes, version 3 will allow import of different file types and 2 is not a flexible in that area, but for creating the menu structure, chapters, backgrounds (w/anaimation and-or with audio) it does a great job and I have had no problems at all. Even allows for an overture video (prior to menu display).

Relayerman

[Lythrana]

I always use ConvertXtoDVD.

It's very easy to convert movies and create DVDs with this tool. Only downside: Creating menus is a bit limited.

But I suggest you try this tool, it's really good.

[avz10]

My advice after much trial and error.

I have a Panasonic NV GS250 camcorder. I use their Motion DV to capture, edit, add some titles and photos, etc. For home use it is good enough for me.

I encode using TMPG Enc, which I bought over the internet after a trial period, I then use GUI for DVD Author to add the chapters, etc, then I run it through DVD Shrink if necessary and write with DVD Decryptor.

All of these are free, except for TMPG Enc, and I think for home use my results are quite good.