DVDA2 versus DVD-lab

sfriedberg wrote on 5/19/2004, 6:08 PM

When Vegas+DVD first came out, I quickly ran into the limitations of DVDA1 and moved over to MediaChance DVD-lab to handle complex menu sequencing, end actions, and so on. I'm looking for comparisons from the (probable handful of) people who have used both DVD-lab and DVDA2.

I realize the UI and workflows are totally different; that hasn't changed. DVDA2 is now ahead of DVD-lab in the area of multiple audio and subtitle tracks, at least until DVD-lab Pro comes out, and certainly has filled in some gaps like end actions. I'd like to know where else DVDA2's functional capabilities have met or exceeded DVD-lab, and if DVDA2 is really ready for full sequencing control.

Obviously, I am pondering the upgrade to Vegas+DVD. The Vegas changes aren't enough to sway me, so I need to find out if DVDA2 has grown up enough to switch back.

Comparisons with other tools also welcome, but those are the only two I've used to any significant extent.

Comments

Sticky Fingaz wrote on 5/19/2004, 7:27 PM

DVDA2 not having DLT capabilities is a huge drawback for me.

Express wrote on 5/21/2004, 7:12 AM

The DVDA2 trial will give you a pretty good indication of what it can (and cannot) do for you.

Vegas 5 install is not required to use the demo - and if you are not burning - the demo is full-featured enough to see what it can do. AFAIK, it does not expire.

Although I have DVDA2 full version at home, I have the demo loaded on my machine at work, and I 'try' new ideas as they come to me.

bStro wrote on 5/21/2004, 7:26 AM

Here's the description of the DVA2 demo.

The demo version of DVD Architect
does not allow MP3, MPEG, or AC-3 files to be imported
does not allow file preparing
does not allow burning of externally prepared demo projects larger that 500MB
To test burning with your drive, you can download the DVD Architect Project [link on the following page].

http://mediasoftware.sonypictures.com/download/step2.asp?DID=503

Rob

RichMacDonald wrote on 5/21/2004, 9:56 AM

>I'd like to know where else DVDA2's functional capabilities have met or exceeded DVD-lab

Sorry, I haven't played sufficiently to know this. One item that DVDLab has that DVD2 does *not* have is "auto-action" on buttons. This means that DVD2 cannot create the type of navigation shown in the film-strip tutorial at dvdlab.