I plan to convert a D-8 camcorder analog signals to DVDs. I would like to do some editing. From what I could gather I should be looking for a minimum of a card that will take analog and sound from the camcorder. More types of inputs would make the card useful in the future. TV and sVideo would be nice. Picking hardware seems is clear cut when the inputs are displayed compared with the software. I know if you purchase a card for over $100 you get software. I have seen software and minimal capture cards for less. I will also need some kind of editing software. I have seen a wide range of pricing. I think I understand my hardware needs but I am clueless as far as the software. My minimum needs are to cut and paste video. My goals are to create a 30 min video on a DVD/CD and to get my son a bit interested in doing some techie stuff. I do not mind spending an extra $50 for easier to use software. I have seen software by Pinnicle for $100 and something like Directorpro for $20 both seemed to do about the same thing. Any advice?
Splurge for a retail version Hauppauge PVR-150. Comes with TV tuner, composite inputs (for stuff from VCR), a basic cut/paste editor, TV watching/scheduling software, and Ulead Movie Factory editing/authoring software. About $89 US. You don't have to spend more than $100 to get good stuff, you just have to know what you're getting.
Thanks for your opinion. I expect it is a good one. Being a computer programmer, I am usually methodical and not impulsive. Now I know why that is a plus. I Impulsivly purchased a ATI video/TV device at a shop. The hardware is good but no editing software. I have looked into your suggestion carefully. Now I could kick myself! I still may be able to return the card. I buy stuff at the store because of their expertise and their return polacy. Thanks for steering me in the right direction. Ulead DVD MovieFactory 4 Disc Creator appears to have the right features and with your approval the software must do what they claim.
It's designed to go with the recordings the card makes. It's not full of bells and whistles like DVDLab or Scenearist, but it does the job nicely.
