I think what is needed is not a downloaded 363 page "PDF" file, but an honest to goodness professionally printed manual. I would be willing to pay an extra $25 to receive one. My normal learning curve for a new software product goes like this:
1) Load the software and click through the available screens and menus to see if the interface is intuitive.
2) I load and run the tutorial (if included)
3) I start a project to see if I can muddle through...referencing the on-line help if I have questions.
4) After learning the basics of the program I peruse the printed manual. It's amazing how much detail, new ideas and tricks you can learn this way.

Agree w/ dcrandall. I use the same approach. How much would you spend printing the .pdf manual yourself? Not to mention the wear and tear on your printer. Might as well purchase one that is professionally done. I would put the money down for one. Anyone at SF listening?

Anyone at SF listening?

yes. stay tuned.

I too would pay extra for a professional manual. And for VV3, it should be clearly divided into separate audio and video sections. . . just like this forum should be.

"wear and tear" Yea, don't print it at home. I printed the manual on my works lazer printer (after hours). 360 some pages...then put in a big 3-ringed binder. Excellent reading material for the crapper. :)

I got the PDF file printed and bound at Kinko's for $35, front and back.
Had them do on their "monster printer" rather than pay for computer time or print on slow inkjet.