Others say...

"Patience is a virtue...software not user-friendly"
I was very surprised to read the great reviews of this software. The software package was marketed to me as a basic, user-friendly media editing and DVD-making tool. I find few aspects that are user friendly, and quite frankly, feel this software is a complete rip-off if you just want basic editing functions (i.e. rotate video). I can achieve similiar level of editing that I need on my Sonic DVD software, which came free with my computer.

I purchased this software about a month ago, and have yet to be able to successfully make a DVD. It has been a time-consuming, frustrating process. Before buying the video, I did my research - on-line, even visiting a Sony store (I have a Sony Handcam). There were only 2 things I needed to achieve with the software - rotate video and add music to the background - additional editing features would be welcomed, but not necessary. Although the Sony representative told me that I would be unable to rotate the video with the software (which I now know is untrue), I decided to purchase it anyways.

Since I purchased the product, I have spent hours going through the tutorial as well as read through the 400+ page manual. There is definitely a steep learning curve. The terminology (event vs. marker vs. chapter) is difficult to get a handle on. After editing the video, including adding music in the background, the resulting rendered file only provides one audio track. I have attempted to fix by adding an audio track in the DVD Architect, only for the software to tell me that I needed the "full-version", which I would need to purchase. Why does a software package allow you to add audio tracks to turn around and tell you that if you want it on the DVD, you have to buy additional software? Hopefully there is a function in the software that I just haven't found yet that will burn a DVD with all desired audio. I will prob find it in 2 days - like I said, steep learning curve.

This software package should not be geared toward the average person who wants to compile home videos. Until now, I was a huge fan of Sony - now I'm not so sure.


"Sony Got Me"
I thought I would be able to use Windows movie maker to edit my movies when I bought my new Sony HD camera, but I could not find a way to make it work so I bought this Sony movie maker.
It is a great product; it is just as easy to use as Windows movie maker, and it does not slow down my computer at all.


"I'm not one to read manuals."
I really hate to read users manuals. I really want to make videos. I really want something easy to understand. I really believe that we make things too complicated for ourselves.
Bought this package with some trepidation. Backed up all my video files and went to work. I enjoyed picking the DVD Architect or DVD Movie Maker at random and experimenting with basic features. I do not need special effects, tricks, or illusion. This was an enjoyable experience and I have videos to prove it.

"Good product but a steep learning curve"
This product is much better than either Roxio or Studio 10. I purchased Studio 10 initially and eventually gave up. It kept crashing or wanting me to pay for an upgrade. I read many reviews and eventually settled on Sony Vegas. The main issue I have had is a steep learning curve. It has taken me awhile to figure out how to lay out my home videos. I used alot of trial and error. It is kind of hard how to figure out how the two software packages work together. Essentially, Movie Studio is how you edit the movies and DVD organizes all the pieces. Use Movie Studio to divide the movie into separate pieces. Use DVD to organize the pieces into the separate segments and make the DVD. This is probably not very clear which is because the software isn't entirely intuitive. It has tutorials which are kind of useful but unfortunately it did take trial and error to get it right.

Now that I figured it out, I can get my home videos into nice DVD packages for my family. I would use this instead of either Roxio or Studio10 but expect to take time to learn how to use it.



"This is the one you want!"
Unbelievable interactive on-line help tutorials and ease of use makes this video editing application the one you should get. Right out of the box, I was able to import a video, add a soundtrack, and create a cool transition effect between scene changes. I know I've only scratched the surface, as this program is very deep.