Try using only Power User mode to see if it helps a bit. Note that "Easy editing modes for beginners work with a simplified version of the user interface that show only the most important controls for a step-by-step walk-through from adding media to the final movie, everything put together in the Dashboard window." (from online Help of the basic version). Your old version of MS should not cause issues.

If it's a recent purchase, you might try to get a refund. See https://www.vegascreativesoftware.info/us/support/article/revoke-order-return-right-of-withdrawal--1515/

Then get the Platinum version instead.

@vkmast Thank you for your inputs. I just purchased it online yesterday for $49. I've tried Power User mode, no use. Seems to me this Movie Studio is broken. I wonder if anyone out there has the similar issues as mine.

I'll consider Platinum version with $30 more.

It's not broken as such. It's designed to be an entry-level video editor and many of the more advanced features of the Platinum have been left out. Platinum offers much more value.

Once I choose Power User mode, immediately "Save As" window pops up. It won't even let me cancel or close the pop-up. I have no choice but to Save as dummy Untitled project to proceed. Seems to me, this application version is broken.

@vkmast are you tech support? Can you do this simple test? Movie Studio 17.0 Build 103

I'm grateful for your inputs.

I'm not tech support (see Signature). The things you mention are designed to work that way. If you want tech support, you need to Ask Support. Advice is here.

@vkmast Sorry I missed your signature.

I guess that I'm not used to such primitive application. I have been using Movie Studio Platinum 9.0 for quite a few years. Now I'm convinced that I need the new Platinum.

Many many thanks.

@Hank Note that If you (or anybody else) have not used your MSP 9 serial number for upgrading before, it may be valid for the special upgrade pricing.

@vkmast You're so helpful, better than tech support!! Thank you~

Just bought vegas movie studio 17, got an email with the download link and serial numbers. So I clicked the download link and received a 6meg file of what I think is an FTP program to get the REAL APPLICATION. Which never happens. I double click the this file, it installs but nothing happens afterwards. No vegas movie studio is on my system. Control panel (uninstall programs) knows of nothing regarding this app. I have no idea what to do.

The file that initially downloads to your Downloads folder is a Download Manager which will show you what is available to you to download. It's in a small window so check it's not hiding behind something else on your screen.

If no luck go to your Magix account https://www.magix.com/us/support/my-service-center/

Look under My Products and VMS17 from where you can download. Again it's the DLM that initially downloads.