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View Full Version : What's the best VCD maker?


Wayfinder
20th October 2002, 19:36
Hi folks. I have a specific need:

I want to take my DVDs and convert them to hi-resolution VCDs (ie, CDs that will play on a VCD-capable standard DVD player).

I am looking for a program that will:

1. Make a hi-res copy (at least 500 horiz resolution) as the 320x200 just doesn't get it.

2. Will take minimum amount of time

3. Have little or no screen "noise" (ie, the patchy-block effect)

4. Will allow one movie to be put on 2 CDs (there are plenty that will work on 4 CDs... but that's too many).

In other words, a VCD that looks as close to the original as possible.

I have used with great success SmartRipper and then converting with DVDx, by pushing the parameters beyond normal "acceptable" limits. I love the way DVDx handles everything within one program... after setting up the parameters I just hit the ENCODE button and the next day I have a good copy. (The only reason I use Smart Ripper is so that my DVD drive isn't working all that time... SR copies the DVD to hard drive in about 15-30 minutes).

I've produced some fine results using DVDx, but it takes from 15 TO 30 HOURS to do it. I would love to get something down to the 4-8 hour range if possible.

What is your favorite? Do you know of any program that will produce these results?

-- Wayfinder

poopity poop
21st October 2002, 02:49
You prolly want to encode to SVCD. Wtih a bitrate of around 2000, most movies fit onto 2 CD's, and are VERY accurate to the original DVD. If you use TMPEG on highest motion search, and bring the max bitrate up to around 4000, you won't see any blockiness ever. This is of course for a 2-pass system