Does anyone use any video converting software other than ConvertXtoDVD &/or WinAvi?

I've been thinking of trying something new since I'm not keen on the latest version of VSO ConvertXtoDVD. I'd appreciate any first hand info regarding the best applications you've used. I'm hoping to find out about some hidden gem that's a fast converter with good quality results.

Maybe a program that's very new and is as yet unheard of.... or maybe a re-invention of an older prog. Kinda like the way ConvertXtoDVD improved so much after it changed from DivX-to-DVD.

__________________
Why can't I download? - "leeching forbidden you are only allowed to seed"

If you have downloaded over 2GB and your ratio has dropped below 0.50 you will not be able to download.

Solutions

1) Leave a completed torrent in your client until you have uploaded enough data to bring your ratio up to 0.75
2) Upload a torrent of your own and seed until your ratio is 0.75 or higher.
3) Donate to the site and gain Premium membership

Please let me know if my torrent or links are dead

I've heard of some people using vlc, but I was never able to get the prog to work like I wanted it to. After giving into frustration, I just get the original dvd and did it myself with nero vision on the win32 side. I think someone told me you use linux too and I do't know anything decent in there that does the task with my picky standards. Macs have decent software that does what you're saying. It's called visualhub. I doubt you would get a mac just for that thought. There's also another one called mpeg stream clip.

Nero Vision only converts to mp4. Better codec IMO. Smaller size and better results and it's the next "standard" from what I've been reading online. There's also, instead of h.264 codec, one called x.264 which is open source version of the commercial version.