Which codec, format and encoder to use for skydivingmovies.com for best quality to size ratio?

[980 0]

hi

I'm working on Premiere Pro with NTSC mini-DV footage.

I'm looking for recommendations of which encoding software to use (freeware preferred) and also what format and specific codec, to reduce filesize from the uncompressed .avi but keep good quality?

a search yielded nothing definitive and also with new codecs springing up overnight, the latest advice is always best!

thanks

[AndyMan 7]

I've had good experiences with the Windows Media Encoder, which you can download here: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/9series/encoder/default.aspx.

In my experience, it's generated the smallest files at the highest quality. The downside is that people on Mac's or Linux boxen can't see it.

It's still my favorite, though.

_Am

__

You put the fun in "funnel" - craichead.

[beowulf 1]

try using DIVX format. It is what people generally use for ripped dvds

[pope 0]

Quote

I've had good experiences with the Windows Media Encoder, [snip] The downside is that people on Mac's or Linux boxen can't see it.

Since when?
Shhhh. Don't tell my Mac--it might catch on and stop playing them.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia/software/Macintosh/osx/default.aspx

I do have issues with the DIVX codec though.
pope

[MB38 0]

I haven't found a file format I can't play yet... in Quicktime [except for Real Media... that's not a video codec, it's crap]. This includes WMV files [there is a WMV codec available]. So whatever you make, people will be able to view it.

Personally, I would recommend h.264 in the .mov container, but if you're on a peecee, I'd say MPEG-4.

I really don't know what I'm talking about.

[nate_1979 9]

Quote

I do have issues with the DIVX codec though.
pope

What issues do you have with the DivX codec? I just got the programs to make DivX after talking to users of Macs etc. and compatibility didnt seem to be a problem (one reason I didnt wanna use windows media) ..

DivX does make some great quality video very small..

FGF #???
I miss the sky...
There are 10 types of people in the world... those who understand binary and those who don't.

[980 0]

I went with the divX.

video here

I'm guessing some settings / techniques where still sub-optimal?

[MB38 0]

Great video, good job on the compression. The compression freaked out a little at one point, but that's not your fault.

I really don't know what I'm talking about.

[Zoter 0]

For a great compromise between video quality and good compression....DivX wins at the moment

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