Need help deciding on a video editing software

[biggestmuff]

I currently have the iLife '08 suite on my Mac. I'm starting to get into some video editing and DVD authoring. Right now, iMovie '08 is doing me fine, because I'm converting old VHS and MiniDV tapes. Howevever, when it comes time to work with my new Canon HG21 videocamera, I'll need some software that will edit HD video (AVCHD). I've read that iMovie '08 will not do this, but iMovie '09, which is included in iLife '09, is AVCHD ready.

Question: should I update to iLife '09 or go with another video editing software like Final Cut Express 4.0? I know there'll be about a $130 difference. Is the difference worth it? Is Final Cut Express that much more powerful and flexible?

 

[Kmax82]

I think it depends on what type of editing you are wanting to do with your videos. Final Cut Express does offer nice editing features that aren't available in iMovie '09 even, but then again iMovie '09 has a few features that aren't available in Final Cut Express. For instance, the auto shake reduction for hand held footage.

I'm by no means an expert, but if you're looking to go pro, then Final Cut is the way to transition to. However, if you're just doing home movies, and want good editing, but not pin point perfect precision on a timeline based editor, then iMovie '09 is my recommendation.