I think that the one thing I should do before I start with all the newbie questions, that I know I will be asking, is to introduce myself; *(Handshakes all around)*
I have used some analog equipment before but I am just now trying my hand at digital.

My mobile-ware is Canon GL2, factory.

Home-ware/Hard-ware is an Intel P4 1.7GHz
Asus P4-B (478) Pentium4 ATX Mainboard.
256 MB PC-133MHz SDRAM
West Dig 60GB 5400 Ultra 100 IDE HD
GeForce2MX-200 32MB AGP Video
ViewSonic E-90 19” flat CRT

Software Windows XP sp1, Office for Students/Teachers

Here is were I need help
I have, and ready to install, FireWire 3-port PCI Card by BELKIN
And
MovieDVSuite@aist (with its own FireWire 3-port card)
And
Adobe Premiere 6.0

?What to throw away, what to keep?

I think I should go with the BELKIN FireWire and the Premiere 6.0, only because I have not heard anything good about the MovieDVSuite. But being new at NLE, would MDVS be ‘simpler’ in the long run?

I have NO experience with NLE
I have worked with analog video, SVHS, and have done assemble edit for linier fiction edit.

At this time I will be working on simple projects, docu-music and spoofmurcials with some home video.

All input is welcome; I’ll try not to pout (too long) when criticized.


I am currently hole-ed-up for the winter and have LOTS of time

Take a look at Vegas Video forum within DVInfo's message boards.

It's a very popular and powerful editing program and does not require any special hardware like the high end suites.

Again, welcome.

Welcome aboard Alan! If you have lots of freetime on your
hands why not try out and see what you like? As Dan pointed
out the Vegas application is one of the hottest NLE's out there
for the PC at this moment. Try the things you have and Vegas
too if you want and decide for yourself. What works for others
does not have to work for you!

You should be able to download a demo from Vegas from the
Sony site: http://mediasoftware.sonypictures.com/