BEST Video Conversion Software?

Hello,

I like to stream video content from my PC to my xbox 360, which works out great with AVI files, however with MP4 obviously it's a different story. I've tried many of the video conversion packages available, and the software tends to either hang, or doesn't support video conversion for all file types. I've recently tried Any Video Converter, which is recommended here in one of the sticky threads. Although the software works, it took at 720p MP4 video file, and when converting it to XVID (1280x720), the final product is grainy and nowhere near as nice as the original file.

Can anyone recommend a good all around Video Conversion program that handles most media types, and provides a solid final product?

Thank you!

Matt

Rap:

Have you tried Lightworks?

I just downloaded it. You have to register.

My video editing needs are rather simple, but I have the same issue as the OP--not all apps convert or edit all formats, and you often have to endure degradation in pic quality.

I use the Vista version of Windows Movie Maker on most stuff. I use VirtualDub at times, particularly on AVI files, but it is a pain in some respects.

I suspect Lightworks is way overkill for me, but I am willing to try anything if the learning curve is not vertical and if I can adapt it for my minimal needs.

Rap:

Looks like we better get to the PDFs. Here is my screenshot of the app when opened. See that "Create" button? That's all you got and it does ABSOLUTELY nothing. I accepted all defaults on the install and also installed that Matrox package mentioned on the download site.

I haven't even figgered out how to close it.

Wishmaster--yeah, degradation is always an issue. I think you can avoid it (mostly if not completely) in VirtualDub if you choose "Direct Stream Copy", but that app has other issues for a tinhorn like me.

Right you are.

I notice that it has mysteriously made 2 empty folders on my D drive: Material and Sound. The app itself is on C.

Hmmm.......................

Edit: made a little headway and deadended.

Created a "project" with a name, which you have to do.

Then tried to import an AVI file--got a "format not supported" error.

Not promising.

Looks like it's going to have to go over the side.

I poked through the Quickstart guide and was referred to Lightwarebeta.com features tab, where the input and output file formats are listed.

No sign of WMV, mpeg, divx, mpg, or anything else I have.

And, you can't even see all of the toolbars at 800 x 600 resolution, which I am locked into.

Apparently, it is not intended for mere Philistines.

So, I will uninstall it and take a look at Wishmaster's recommendation.