Re Encoding a DivX avi

[Dion]

I have all my Family Guy dvd seasons ripped into AVI's on my comp.

all these files are 175mb each with 512x384 res and mp3 audio and DivX codec.

I have a archos gmini 400 and i want to convert them to 320x240. But every time I do the file is bigger like 200mb. I thought going from a higher rez to a smaller would make them smaller. Confused :confused:

The Archos Gmini supports DivX/XviD and IMA ADPCM audio.

So My Question is.

How Can I encode these movies/avi's smaller w/o losing quaility?

[jggimi]

Hello, and welcome to the forum.

Resolution in and of itself does not impact file size. The key to file size is bitrate.

That stated, the relationship between bitrate and resolution has a direct impact on perceived quality. The encoding tools Gordian Knot and the easier to use AutoGordianKnot use the formula bits * pixels / frame count to describe this relationship, and use compressibility testing to guide resolution decisions for a given bitrate.

You haven't stated what tools your using for encoding, but you may want to use one (such as the above mentioned AutoGK) that includes automated bitrate calculations.

[Dion]

AutoGK

Well I have the AVI's made from AutoGK already. Then i use there mpeg4 converter which uses VirtualDub.

[jggimi]

You might want to look at Gordian Knot, since it does support AVI input, while AutoGK does not. Unfortunately, the guides for GK are designed for DVD sources. You'll need to set the Pixel Aspect Ratio to 1:1, and you may need to do some manual AviSynth scripting.

But you are better off returning to your source DVDs in any case, as the quality of your product will be vastly better. And to your advantage, you need less process knowledge and encoding skills to use AutoGK, and you're already familiar with it.

You asked in your opening post, "How Can I encode these movies/avi's smaller w/o losing quaility?"

You can't. It is unlikely that you will like the results of a reencoded DivX source.

[SeeMoreDigital]

Hi Dion,

Is your main goal to reduce the file size?

Because according to the Archos Gmini specs (http://www.archos.com/products/overview/gmini_400_tech_specs.html ) it can decode Mpeg4/MP3.avi frame sizes up to 640x400 - which is an odd size if you ask me!


Cheers

[Dion]

Is your main goal to reduce the file size?

yes and have the files smaller. w/o losing that much quality. gotta remember its only a 20gig hd. :D