Will Ulead DVD WS Express import DVD w/o Chapters ?

[iamjcl]

Since using MovieFactory3, it seems to be about all I need, but won't "import" from disc without chapter stops, and I can't re-join the clips without re-encoding.

Thanks to help found here, I at least can import the entire DVD as a single .MPG using various other software to do it, then import that file into MF3.

But since this is not my life, I would like to use 1 program that would import either all the video on a DVD, or break-up into chapters, and let me author from there.

TDA has a great import function - rips with or w/o chapters - but I'm not keen on the interface.

Any DVDWS users know if this type of import can be done with this program ??

BTW, the discs I need to rip (homemade discs) have AC3 / 2.0 audio, if it matters, but TDA w/out the ac3 pack still works great, just can't hear the sound during authoring.

- Thanks for any help or advice available

- Chris

[Epicurus8a]

Ulead DVD WorkShop offers a free down load. You could dl it and check it out, unfortunately the trial version doesn't support AC3.

Also, use DVD Decrypter IFO mode/no file splitting to rip one large VOB to your hard drive.

[lordsmurf]

You're not supposed to author from pre-made VOB files. Use the proper streams. Demux your DVD properly if you want to re-author.

[ckwok1]

Since using MovieFactory3, it seems to be about all I need, but won't "import" from disc without chapter stops, and I can't re-join the clips without re-encoding.

Use output setting exactly the same as your import files (CBR/VBR, same max bitrate, same resolution, ...etc) and enable smart rendering, MF3 will not re-encode the files except those portions you have made changes (e.g. added transition effects).

[iamjcl]

I realize that MF3 is supposed to do this, but that is my point: it is not.

I think it may have something to do with the source DVD being made on a Sony GX7 in HQ mode, which is 9800 VBR, which shows up in Ulead as 9800 CBR, which is higher than the "max" of Mpeg settings.

It will put a project together, assuming you don't cut edit anything, or make any changes other than menu and chapter selections, without re-encoding, however.

One cut, and even after finding a way to "trick" the mpeg settings into accepting the 9800 figure (use the up/down buttons instead of typing in the number), it still will re-encode the whole thing.

Also, If I add .M2V and .AC3 files individually, it will ALWAYS re-encode.

I've been having pretty good luck with Tmpgenc DVD Author, however, and am going to switch to this for now.

- Chris