Is software downconversion worth it on a 12 hr. project?
 

I am new to the HD world (FX1000 owner for a week), but have been editing on Vegas for many years. After reading many posts on the subject of HD to SD downconversion for DVD production, I am thinking that it might not be worth it on such a long project.

My main question is... using virtual dub and Cineform, how much longer would it take to export to DVD vs. just recoring in SD originally and would the final project be worth the effort. It looks like I would need an enormous hard drive just for the files.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

Absolutely not worth it, not for a 5 minute project.

HD converted to SD has few advantages. Many will tell you the better images result from shooting SD if it's going to SD.