AVS Video Editor

If you've bought a PC with Microsoft Windows Vista preinstalled, chances are it isn't the all-singing, all-dancing Ultimate version. However, it's possible to get Ultimate's power from Vista Basic using third-party downloads.

The features of XP's Media Center, and then some, are bundled into Vista Home Premium and Ultimate, as is the Movie Maker application. Basic and Business users miss out, though, but can easily add the video-editing features with the Vista-compatible AVS Video Editor. The trial version has no time limits, but it does dump a logo in the middle of your output. However, once you start to appreciate its abilities - support for most formats, capture from both DV and analogue sources, plus output to DVD, PSPs, iPods and mobile phones - you'll register soon enough. The 40 effects, 284 transitions and styles, plus the ability to insert more than one audio file help as well.

Author: Davey Winder