Sony VAIO - Handycam to DVD software

[CraigE]

Can anyone recommend a good software package for Sony handycam to Sony VAIO. Sick of the bu%%$#$t Sony reps say. Initially told yep to any laptop can be done, then if you buy a Sony VAIO it will do it basically by itself. What a croc. Now find out I need a Sony firewire cable. Well any way the dodgy image maker vcd/dvd software they supply with the VAIO will not even recognise the dvd writer so is useless, and have been finding out this is a common issue with Sony even though their hot line techies reckon they know nothing about it, hundreds of other world wide seem to disagree.
So any way if I do get the fire wire cable what is a good program that will allow me to edit, split and add menus for family dvd.
Cheers
PS The Sony VAIO DVD does work to burn DVDS etc on other programs.

[tombraider]

Hehe

A Mac Book Pro :twisted::wasntme:

Firewire to the MBP and use iMovie :D

(Couldnt resist)

[abaddonxi]

Firewire cable, also known as ieee1394 cable is similar to USB, except heaps faster.

It's a pretty standard way to connect digital cameras and computers. You don't have to buy Sony cable.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FireWire

Cable ends come in two sizes.

You can get a firewire card for your desktop for about $40.

Cheers
Simon

[Ben]

For software, there's a ton of programs aimed at all different levels.

On Windows I use a program called Vegas. Sony liked it so much they bought it, but it's not designed specifically for Sony hardware.
http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/products/vegasfamily.asp

You can download a trial (30 days or so) to test it out.

Once you've added titles, done some fancy transistions and effects, and saved the results, it's over to DVD part, called DVD Architect for menus, scene selections, etc.

On Mac I use iMovie, which is a cinch to use.

[dmdigital]

Get Adobe Premier Elements about the best value for money and easy to use, lots of web and print tutorial stuff available on how to use etc. I bought a VAIO last month and it came bundled with the latest version but I've been using the software for a few years with my Panasonic GS400 anyway.

[CraigE]

Thanks guys.
Will check out Vegas, some feedback from others say there is a version specifically for the VAIO, but anything that recognises the dvd writer would probablly do.
Will be getting a fire wire cable. The VAIO is already set up to accept it and has Click to DVD but I want to author them a bit. Cable should either come with the camera or the computer as it is a neccesity.
DVD writer does work ok juts that stupid image mixer program. Sony will be getting a nice email about selling software that does not work with their computers even though it is a Sony specific package.

[Quiggers]

Sounds like Sony hasn't changed. Some years ago, on behalf of a client, we placed a $1mill order with them (Sony) for a heap of broadcast (post production) gear. Money paid, gear at the Sony warehouse, but they wouldn't let it go unless we forked out $50 (in cash) for 'delivery'.......

Ampex would've done it for a tiny bit more (fully installed) and sent a tech (for a week) to ensure all was fine and working.... but not Sony....

the client wanted Sony..........why?

getting parts for their broadcast gear is interesting:twisted::twisted::twisted:

...as your setup is newish, I'd take it all back to the seller and get them to sort it out on the spot (for no charge)....

GQ

[Rovernaut]

Thanks guys.
Will check out Vegas, some feedback from others say there is a version specifically for the VAIO, but anything that recognises the dvd writer would probablly do.
Will be getting a fire wire cable. The VAIO is already set up to accept it and has Click to DVD but I want to author them a bit. Cable should either come with the camera or the computer as it is a neccesity.
DVD writer does work ok juts that stupid image mixer program. Sony will be getting a nice email about selling software that does not work with their computers even though it is a Sony specific package.
Seems good, just D/l it on Bittorrent. :angel:even gave me the new update when I installed it :D
Now all I have to do is read the 300 odd page pdf manual to know how to use it. But has a lot of good features like FX etc. A real pro program.

[barryj]

PS The Sony VAIO DVD does work to burn DVDS etc on other programs.

I have done many DVDs on my Vaio. I use Pinnacle Studio Plus to edit the video and Nero to burn it to DVD.

I have a firewire cable that I bought in the Isa and it works fine from the camera to the Vaio. Also works fine from my external hard drive to the Vaio.