How to Author 16:9 using TMPGEnc DVD Author

[vcd_user]

I have 3 AVI videos in, I think, 16:9 format (512 pixels wide and 288 pixels high). In order to author that into DVD using TMPGEnc DVD Author 1.6, I have to make them into mpeg2 first.
If I used 512 x 288 pixels, TMPGEnc DVD Author complained that 512x288 cannot be used for a standard DVD. But if I make it into the formats supported by the tool (i.e. 352x240 , 352 x480, 704x480, 720x480) during the mpeg2 conversion, when viewing the mpeg2 output file, I can see that the image is either stretched or compressed. Can some one tell me what is the right way to do this ?

[Baldrick]

What do you convert to mpeg2 with? WIth most encoders can you set it to 16:9 and then should tda automatically identify it as 16:9. You can also change the headers in the mpeg with dvd patcher and then import in tda.

[vcd_user]

I used winavi convertor which allow me to specify pixels of width and height under advance options. I specified 512 x288 to preserve the original characteristic. But when I open the output mpeg2 file under TDA, it complains that 512 X288 is not a stabdard DVD fornat.

[vcd_user]

Any suggestion on what other converting tool I should try ?

[theewizard]

what PLAYER do you use to view the mpeg2 file ?

normally I use VLC or mpc, VLC will open the file in the correct aspect ratio ( as specified by the DAR in the header )

some players will display the the video strictly on a pixel*pixel basis and this will not appear correct even though your finished DVD will play correctly

all ntsc USA dvd VOb files are 720*480 whether 4:3 of 16:9 wide screen, the DAR flags tell the DVD player to stretch the picture to 16:9 instead of 4:3

you can try covertX it will covert your avi directly to DVD just set the output to 16:9

or you can CCE to encode to meg2 or mpv elementy stream

or HECnc whic is free , I use convertX on some things

others i use CCE and then author with GFD

[vcd_user]

Thanks for all the good replies. I used windvd to play. But I found the problem, WINAVI convertor will treat the input as 4:3 by default. I have to check the 16:9 box for the source which is on another panel and the result mpeg file is fine.