If price is a consideration, it's hard to beat Ulead MediaStudio Pro 8.

- Native HDV Support (even on weak notebook computers)

- 24p

- SMART COMPOSITOR included for nice, pre-built openings and segues

- Integration with other Ulead applications (DVD Workshop, PhotoImpact, 3D Production Studio, Video Paint, CG Infinity)

http://www.ulead.com/msp/runme.htm

Jerry Jones
http://www.jonesgroup.net

While I am still in school, I can get academic licenses of many of the NLE programs. Avid for $300 and Adobe Production Suite Premium for $649. I think the decision will be between those two. Avid is an industry standard, but I think Adobe is getting better and better. So one of those two will do.

I am planning to buy the Canon XH-A1 next month. Is one of those two programs better suited for HD work?