which encoder should i i use to compress AVI?

[esakal]

Hello,

I have panasonic digital video camera.

When i transfer movies to my computer, it doens't compress them automatically thus the movies files size are HUGE.

I would like to use encoder to reduce their size yet getting optimal quality.
I know that when compressing the quality is damaged but there are encoders that give good results.

I attached a list of codecs that i have in my computer, it would be great if someone will be able to guide me which one should i use and what are the definitions that i need to set.

Many thanks,
Eran.

[bb]

Welcome to the forum!

You did not tell what you intend to do with your video, e.g. if you want to watch it on a computer only or if you'd like to watch it on TV.

So I assume all you're asking for is a good video codec to reduce the file size. While digging through the forum's threads you'll find lots of information how to convert the video, how to use filtering to improve the result, which format to use for what, etc.

Back to your original question:
Good codecs to use from your list are (in the order of appearance):
- Microsoft's WMV9
- DivX 5.2.1
- XviD

bb

[esakal]

Hello bb,

Thank you for your reply.

My main goal is to store those files for later use. i have dvd burner but still it isn't enough since it can store ~20 minutes.

i tried the 3 codecs that you suggested but none of them gave good results, maybe because of the setting. i tried playing with the setting but it didn't help.

Can you point me to a good article/thread which discuss about it?

I took your advice and I will re-look in the forum for similar questions...

Thanks again.

Eran.

[esakal]

after reading the following thread, i got all my answers.

thread about compressing DV (http://forum.doom9.org/showthread.php?t=92590)

it seems that the best thing to do is :

1. keep it on the dv.
2. save it as is (meaning 20 min per DVD)

Thanks a lot.

Eran.

[bb]

If you'd like to edit the video later, DV is indeed the format of choice - despite its storage demands. If I were you I wouldn't use DVDs, but save to miniDV tape instead. Else you'd have to juggle with many discs, and if some of your clips are longer than 20 minutes, you have to cut it, too. Too much hassle, if you ask me.

bb