2 questions

[lilewis]

1. I'm expecting my HV20 from BB to be delivered tomorrow, and am
wondering if I should be buying a filter to protect the lens. I assume the
lens is covered when the cam is off, but how about when it's on? If so,
what diameter/filter do you recommend?

2. What is the consensus for the easiest to use (most intuitive) software for
WinXP pc editing.

I'm hoping there is inexpensive and easy-to-learn-use software that trims
clips, can create slow motion, etc. I'm well aware of the learing curve
for editing digital photos using Photoshop, and am hoping to have
an easier time learning how to use video editing, although I suspect any
video editing software is going to be a significant learning experience.

[Artscroll]

Congratulations on the purchase. I had to cancel my order with BB and go with Newegg because they took so long to get mine out the door.

Buy a 43mm UV filter. The threaded ring is outside the auto closing lens protection cap so the HV20 is "kind" to filters. I recommend a HOYA UV 43mm filter. That's what is on mine.

I would look on ebay for a used copy of "Vegas". I think it is very easy and friendly for WinXP editing. Make sure you get version 6.0 and up as versions before that don't support HDV. You can find on forums, here and elsewhere as to how to remove the 2:3 pulldown with other applications before you edit in Vegas.

My 2 cents.

[Barry_Green]

If going with Vegas, get version 7 or later; HDV performance is much improved.

[lilewis]

Barry and Art,

Thanks for your replies.
The Hoya and Vegas are now next in my sights

From most of the posts I see here, most of you people are much more advanced than I, and I realize my questions are real newbie ones.. so I thank you for taking the time to answer.

I intend to monitor this and a couple of other groups re the HV20, as I think it's the best way to learn what the camera can do and how to do it.

Loren

[lilewis]

Art, I forgot to mention I ordered the HV20 from BB Easter Sunday because I received an email from BB saying it was in stock. The store was closed Easter but they offered a 10% on-line discount and free shipping. I'd been condsidering buying one ever since the review came out, but that was the deal clencher for me.

They shipped FEDEX and I should see it tomorrow. Guess it was just good timing.

[lilewis]

Just looked at the Hoya UV filters leads to another question.
Is the multicoated filter the preferred one to get for the hv20?

[lilewis]

Please disregard my last post. I've ordered a Hoya MC UV filter from 2filter.com