A quick search shows that premiere is about $800, which is very affordable in terms of editing software. I believe the full version of Vegas is even cheaper if you're concerned about cost.

The cheap version of most programs lets you do basic cutting, but things such as filters, color correction, and some of the more flashy wipes will be left out. Honestly I used avid elements for nearly a year at work and I rarely wanted the full version, though color correction was included.

Thanks DaveD. Does anyone know if adobe elements has colour correction and also some features. Does Avid elements work on a PC and how much does that cost! Thanks alot

Thanks
Rob - UK

Avid no longer sells it's basic version. Media composer 2.8 was on sale for around 500 for a while, but I bet it's gone back up (I'm sure 3 is a good bit more)

If you're interested in exactly what adobe offers in it's elements package, I'd suggest calling them and asking.