Has any tried using the Zwei-Stein video editor?
I just discovered it so have yet have a play but it certainly looks interesting.

http://www.thugsatbay.com/tab/?q=zweistein

It may be free, but it looks awefull (interface wise) in my opinion.

Also:Input:
Input Media compatible with Internet Explorer 4.0 (*.avi,*.wav,*.jpg,*.gif,*.png etc...)
Imports http:// and ftp:// URL's for projects and clips.

Output: Outputs AVI 1.0, RealVideo® RealAudio®, Windows Media Format (*.wmv), WAV, and BMP. "Internet Explorer? No output to AVI 2.0 or MPEG(2)?

And:How do I import an audio track?
Import an audio track the same way you import a video track. By selecting "Import Video" from the file menu. I realize this could be confusing. You can also import jpeg and bmp files in this fashion. All tracks go into the arrangement window and you can move them up and down to suit your needs. Note: Mp3 encoded audio tracks will not work very nicely. The audio tracks should be wav 44.1 khz.


Does Zwei-Stein import MPG files?
We think so. However, if the audio is encoded as Mp3, it will get garbled. There is no Mp3 decoder in Zwei-Stein 3.01.44.1 audio only? We "think" it can import MPG files?

But do check it out. Always good to see what alternatives are. Do
let us know what you think of it, okay?

p.s. there is also a free NLE with Windows XP (Windows Movie
Maker). There is also a free version of AVID.