" The Mac platform AVIDs have a tendency to crash alot."
I have never used AVID so I can not comment on that app. But I would certainly bet it is not the fault of the OS itself. I use final cut and it has been rock solid. If final cut was good enough for Lord or the Rings, it is certainly good enough for my home movie projects. I have always heard good things about AVID, however, it does use some proprietary hardware, is that correct?
AVID requires 3D effects boards that are proprietary for heavy GFX . But, man, are they fast. However, you can get a stripped down AVID & do EFX on a third party plug in, but it's rendering is way slow..gotta go - client in room, have to edit now!!