What settings to convert w/mpeg streamclip? File ends up over 15gb

[srahusson]

Hello I am trying to convert a file in mpeg stream clip. the original HD file is about 4.6gb for the hour show. when i place it in mpeg streamclip and convert to .mov or .avi the file ends up over 15gb. What should my settings be? how can i get it down to about 1-1.5gb per hour. Thanks so much for the help.

~Srahusson

[Baldrick]

Use a compression like h264 and set the data rate and you will see the output file size,

[srahusson]

Thanks. I tried that but do you know why it took so long? it took several hours to complete for the hour show. Is that normal? Also will those settings maintain HD like quality? i want to compress it but maintain HD resolution or near Hd res. thanks for your help.

~Srahusson

[srahusson]

One last question. Is there a way to keep 5.1 surround? if so what settings do i need for that?