Which to keep, PCM or DD 5.1

[theanimala]

I am trying to backup a concert DVD that I own using DVD shrink. The problem is, I can't fit the concert along with both soundtracks (PCM and DD5.1) at the same time. Even compressing the concert with level 10 compression it is still just slightly too big. The PCM file is huge, nearly 1.5GB, the DD is only 400MB. I know I can get rid of the PCM file and backup with only level 1 or two compression, or drop DD5.1 and backup with level 10 compression. What should I do?

[ddlooping]

I know this is probably not the reply you were hoping for, but...
why don't you try both options, burn to DVD-RW and pick the one you prefer?

I would suggest you do two backups.
keep AC3 5.1 when you want to watch the DVD, and PCM when you want to listen ot it (as it should have a better quality, if only in stereo).

[MOVIEGEEK]

I would keep DD 5.1(AC3),the differance would be inaudible.

[ddlooping]

I would keep DD 5.1(AC3),the difference would be inaudible.

I think it depends a lot on the quality of the the original tracks (on some DVDs the difference might indeed be minimal), and the audio system used.

[MOVIEGEEK]

I would keep DD 5.1(AC3),the difference would be inaudible.

I think it depends a lot on the quality of the the original tracks (on some DVDs the difference might indeed be minimal), and the audio system used.

That is true but I would rather allocate the extra space to up video bitrate(less compression) and use my EQ in my amplifier to make up for any audio deficiency...but that's me.

[ddlooping]

[theanimala]

I guess this is why backup's aren't always as good as the original copy. I listened to both before, and on both, the PCM is clearly superior. Much more bass, and just more clarity. Surprisingly, it seems to have better separation as well, which surprised me since PCM is a 2ch format vs DD which is encoded for 5.1. Anyway, I would really hate to hurt the picture to the point that I need to take it to level 10 compression, so I guess I will just live with the DD.

I guess I would not have known what I was missing if I hadn't of listened to both...

[ddlooping]

Considering how cheap DVD-Rs are nowadays, why don't you make two backups as I previously suggested?
One to be watched, where the audio quality is compromised but the video at its best (DD 5.1), and one for listening (PCM).

[theanimala]

That's a good idea. Out of principle I only wanted to have 1 backup, but it's true, 2 backup's are better then one, especially at today's pricing. I will make two, but knowing me only one will be watched 1 time over the next 2 years...

[ddlooping]

"only one will be watched 1 time over the next 2 years..."

He he.