Couple of questions...

[Cloud101]

1.) For aspect ratio which one should i use if the source is 4:3, 4:3(NTSC) or 4:3(NTSC, 704x480)? Sources Reso. = 640x480

2.) If the source file has a resolution of 640x480, why should i encode with a resolution of 352x240 rather than 720x480

3.) To counter Overscan should i create borders 8 pixels wide(344x232)?

Thanks for the help

[jimmalenko]

1) 4:3 NTSC

2) It's dependant on the quality of your source, as well as the target format/bitrate you want to use, amongst other things. I can't give you a straight answer to that without knowing a shitload more information about your source, and what you want the destination to be.

3) 8 pixels won't be enough for overscan IMO. It changes from TV to TV as well, so the best you can do is a couple of tests using a RW and see roughly where your TV's overscan kicks in. Take note though that when (if) you buy a new TV, it could all change again.

[Cloud101]

Same source as in my other post: http://img130.exs.cx/img130/6488/gspot3pf.jpg

Im going to encode it at 2300Kbps. And target format is .m2v

I *dont* mind if i can see the border abit, how many pixels wide should i make the borders?

Thanks

[guns1inger]

If you are encoding at such a low rate, then definately go for the lower resolution. You could consider half-D1, which will give you a better picture quality than the VCD res you are looking at.

If the source is a TV show, home video or DVD rip, then you really don't gain much by adding borders. If you go for low resolution, then you are sacrificing a lot of space by adding borders. IMO, overscan is a much overrated problem. Anything shot for film or TV takes this into account. Some poorly shot home video doesn't, but that is case by case. If you anime with burnt in subtitles outside the overscan area, stop downloading crap.

[Cloud101]

Half-D1 is 352 x 480 pixels. If i set it as that i get a screwed up Output file(The image is too stretched horizontally). Thanks

[johns0]

352x480 doesnt screw up the resolution,aspect ratio is either set wrong in your encoding or it plays wrong on your computer because of the codec and wmp used to play it.

[Cloud101]

Ok fixed that up. But now the Subs are right at the bottom of the screen...

[Cloud101]

What impact does the resolution have on the overall Output quality when played on a TV? Juding from your responses the diffrence doesn't seem to be great at all. Thanks

[jimmalenko]

Try it and find out for yourself !!!

[Cloud101]

I dont have DVD-Rs to waste...

[jimmalenko]

Then use a rewritable ... the only way you're gonna learn is by experimenting. We didn't have DVD-Rs to waste when we learnt either, and we're not about to hand you your ass on a silver platter here. DO some reading and experimenting please.

[Cloud101]

Nobody asked you to answer my questions, and i bet you did the exact same thing when you joined.

[jimmalenko]

You opened yourself up when you posted to a public forum my friend, and I'm only trying to help you. BTW, I know how to use the search function and I experimented a lot - read my rant (link in sig) if you've got a few spare minutes and you'll see

[Cloud101]

Ok sorry for that rude reply. I guess im just trying to rush things, trying to get this done before Exams. I will read your rant sometime. Thanks

[jimmalenko]

Ok sorry for that rude reply. I guess im just trying to rush things, trying to get this done before Exams. I will read your rant sometime. Thanks

Patience, my friend

Before you know it, you'll be a guru if you do the research and testing yourself. By all means ask for directions when stuck though

[Cloud101]

Will do! Im pretty much set for now