[pdot]

I was wondering what the top 3 free codecs are out right now for the MacOS (9 and X).

I have two uses. (1) convert DVDs to computer playable files and (2) convert DivX files in more Mac-friendly files.

I've been using Sorenson 3 so far but that's b/c I wanted to maintain compability in case the other codecs go out of style. However, I'm now willing to go on the edge and try something new. The 3 newest I've heard about are 3ivX, ZygoVideo and On2VP3. Any comments on these would be useful too. Thanks.

[Chuck_star]

Well your travelling down a road thats not that well travelled.
1. Ripping DVD's is not worth the time or HD.
2. Trying to recompress video is a no no.

Seems people are using Divx 3ivx or mpeg. I stick with mpegs.

Although if you played the DVD into your TV. Took the analog feed though RCA into your DV cam. Firewired to the G4.Capture in FCP. It may work. I'll have to try it sometime.maybe.

[ 10-31-2001: Message edited by: Chuck_star ]

[Chuck_star]

if you haven't already check this thred http://newforums.macnn.com/cgi-bin/u...9&t=001876 looks like you'll find some answers there.

[pdot]

Thanks, but the above link isn't quite what I was looking for. I should've mentioned that I have had experience ripping DVDs (just bits and pieces I find interesting and would like to collect; and for the record, so far, I've been ripping DVDs I own), so I'm familiar with the general method and the same goes for re-encoding .mov or .avi files, but I'm just not familiar with today's codecs. The QT Pro version of Sorenson 3 just doesn't quite cut it. I'm looking for current free/really-cheap alternatives that appear to have potential and lasting power.

For example, a long while back, I heard that 3ivX was looking to outdo DivX and even when I went to their website today, it's basically the same info they had months ago. I want to hear people's impressions with the latest codecs. Thanks.

[Chuck_star]

Well as far as codecs are concerned.
You should run test and see for yourself. Heres the results of mine
test file 52meg DV ntsc
3ivx best 2.4 megs 360x240 fullscreen viewable 7/10
VCD(mpeg1) QT ntsc 2.4 megs 320x340 Fullscreen decent 8/10
VCD(mpeg1) Cleaner best 2.4megs 320x240 fullscreen minor issues 7.5/10
Sorenson high 10.1meg 360x240 Fullscreen good 8.5/10
Cinepak best 10.2meg 360x240 fullscreen snowy 6.5/10

The clear winner in my view is VCD(Mpeg 1) though QT. Divx is too PC for me to test.

[pdot]

wow Chuck_star, I was very surprised by the fact that you think that MPEG1 beats 3ivx. Thanks for our input. Yeah, I know it's best for me to try them out for myself, but I like to hear people's opinions too b/c there's always at least someone who brings up a point that I'm not aware of. Actually, if anyone is interested, this link
http://homepage.mac.com/blibbler/CODEC_discussion/

provides the kind of info I was looking for. However, it would be great if other knowledgeable users out there keep supplying their input or even comment on that guy's webpage about the codecs.

[Cipher13]

I'd also have to advocate MPEG1. It just rocks... I can't stand the slow vertical refresh of DivX (during scene changes... argh!). Haven't tried 3ivX though...

[mitchell_pgh]

The hacker community needs to select a codec and stick with it like MP3...

I like 3ivx, but there is always something better...