Feedback on X264 MB-Tree Quality

[jdobbs]

Starting a few versions ago, the X264 project added a new feature called "Macroblock Tree Rate Control", and BD-RB uses it in its "Better, High Quality, and Highest" settings. I've noted some pretty impressive quality improvements, especially at the reduced bitrates associated with BD-5 and BD-9 backups. I was just wondering if others are seeing similar results?

Amazing that what appears to be the best AVC encoder in the world, and is also the most active in development/improvements is free, isn't it?

[Dark Shikari]

Amazing that what appears to be the best AVC encoder in the world, and is also the most active in development/improvements is free, isn't it?The handbrake guys did a lot of testing; you should check their forum (they have a thread on this as well). They mostly only tested SD, but the general result was:

1. Bitrate reductions of 20-40% at the same CRF.
2. Quality reductions of 0-10% at the same CRF (so, given the bitrate, a huge gain).
3. A significantly smaller standard deviation among SSIM values at the same CRF (thus, if SSIM is to be trusted, CRF more accurately gets constant quality across multiple sources).

[Capsbackup]

Even though my last few BD-5 backups have been less than 2 hours in length, I am, and continue to be impressed with the capabilities of X264. Indistinguishable from the original to my eyes, and burned on a DVD media that is basically 20% the size of BD media. Awesome!!
A big thanks Dark Shikari, your efforts and support are greatly appreciated.
BD-RB and X264 are, in my belief, two of the best, and there are many here on Doom9. :thanks:

[jdobbs]

The handbrake guys did a lot of testing; you should check their forum (they have a thread on this as well). They mostly only tested SD, but the general result was:

1. Bitrate reductions of 20-40% at the same CRF.
2. Quality reductions of 0-10% at the same CRF (so, given the bitrate, a huge gain).
3. A significantly smaller standard deviation among SSIM values at the same CRF (thus, if SSIM is to be trusted, CRF more accurately gets constant quality across multiple sources).All I can say is "Hail to thee Dark Shikari." -- I really appreciate the hard work.

[Sharc]

Starting a few versions ago, the X264 project added a new feature called "Macroblock Tree Rate Control", and BD-RB uses it in its "Better, High Quality, and Highest" settings. I've noted some pretty impressive quality improvements, especially at the reduced bitrates associated with BD-5 and BD-9 backups. I was just wondering if others are seeing similar results?
Agree; the overall benefit outweights by far the occasionally reported deficiencies for fading or dark scenes IMO.
For BD-RB I would even like to propose for "Quicker Encode for Extras" an --mbtree enabled preset (perhaps as an hidden option?) in addition to the current ultrafast preset.

Amazing that what appears to be the best AVC encoder in the world, and is also the most active in development/improvements is free, isn't it?
Absolutely. Similar applies for what appears to be the best BD backup tool :)

[HWK]

Amazing that what appears to be the best AVC encoder in the world, and is also the most active in development/improvements is free, isn't it?

Hush Jdobbs, Dark Shikari will make us pay for it if you keep on going on that track :p :)