Video capturing and editing software?
 

Ok, here's the deal:

I recently bought a MiniDV camcorder because my wife is pregnant, and I'd like to start recording holidays and other things like the birth.

I'm currently using windows with the incredibly unstable Studio 10.

Here's where I need your help:

I want to try some different programs, but I don't want to have to pay a ton. Plus, I'd like a HD primarily for editing the videos.

I've got a capture card - It came from Pinnacle Studios w/ Studio 10. But I'm not sure what model it is.

I'm considering putting Ubuntu on a drive, because I know there are some amazing linux programs out there that are free.

I'm wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction. I'm willing to try a few different programs. Basically, I'd like to try something simple, that can capture from my camera (through the capture card), and will let me do basic edits. But I'd also like to try something that has lots of features like text wherever I need it, different fades and what not, DVD menus (for when I burn it to a DVD to play on the TV), etc.

I'm also very new to Linux, as in I've used it a few times but never stuck with it because it's just too much work. So I'd like something user friendly for the most part, that doesn't require much or any prompt commands. I'd prefer doing it all through a GUI.

Which also leads me to ask - I've got an AMD 64 X2 4400+ - should I go with Ubuntu 64 bit, or will apps run better with the regular 32 bit? I've never installed a 64 bit before - because for Windows it's pretty much useless.

I use Cinelerra, but it's probably closer to a professional video editor then you might want.

Some others I know of are:
Avidemux
DeVeDe
Pitivi
Kino

I've heard Avidemux is good, simple, and would have what is need for home videos. I don't have much knowledge about what the others are like. I'd recommended just using the add/remove programs to just search for and install Avidemux. But you should probably try a couple to see which one you like. Hope this helps.