If your decision regarding what non-linear editing software you
are going to choose for your digital video production is based on the fact that
you want professional looking DVDs you have a few things to think about. Many,
but not all, editing programs come attached with DVD authoring software. If you
are looking to have a bundled package, where the DVD authoring program is
directly correlated to the editing software you are using, there are a couple
optimum purchases that can be made based on the computer you are running.
For
those who are running PCs for their home editing the newest Sony editing
software, Vegas Pro 8, would be a good choice. Though the software is not as
publicly hailed, it does have its followers and is versatile for all your home
video needs. It comes included with DVD Architect Pro 4.5 which is a great program
that allows you to create beautiful menu systems and multi-media capabilities
with a basic, drag-and-drop interface. With a little bit of knowledge about the
software and some creativity, your DVDs will look as good as anything you pick up at the nearest video store. Not only does this software offer great usability, it is also one of the least expensive video editing packages available.
For those editors using a Mac the easy answer is
to pick up the Final Cut Studio suite. Included with this creative package is DVD Studio Pro, arguably one of the
best DVD authoring programs available for the consumer. The interface is
even easier than that of DVD Architect Pro, and the options are comparable. Though
managing all the windows and menus that you will be creating for your DVDs can
be a little cluttered in its interface, there are few other programs that
consistently provide the functionality you want or need. The best way to choose your editing
software is based upon what your needs are. If your top priority is to
have great looking DVDs, then these high-end software packages already include exactly the applications you will need.