Comparisons of Non-Linear Video Editing Packages?

kickabear asks: "I'm working on an independent (that means I'm poor) film. I'm looking for a site (or a book, I'm not picky) which reviews various non-linear video editing packages. I've found a few sites but I can't really find anything that does a side-by-side comparison of the features and capabilities of products such as Premiere Pro or Avid Xpress Pro or the 20 projects listed on Sourceforge. The project will be filmed using a brand new Sony HVRZ1U HDV camera, so if any comparison sites lean toward HDV/HDTV, that would be favorable. Any information, war stories, or advice would be appreciated."

Comments

iMovie HD, Final Cut Express

[2nd Post!]

If you're on a budget, I would think a $499 package would be better than Premiere's $699 package, right?

iMovie is only $499 bundled with a Mac mini. There's a lot of reviews for iMovie sans HD, and I'm sure a few with; iMovie is pretty solid for basic NLE (I've used it for weddings, presentations, and DVD quality releases), but most of the 'magic' comes from the camera, cameraman, director, and source material. The NLE can't do anything with crap.