ac3 to DVD?

[ddeneale2]

I have two avi files on my computer that need to be merged into one file and then converted to dvd format. The problem is, they're both encoded with the ac3 codec. In the past, I've had problems trying to get the dvd to play on my stand-alone player with sound and from what I understand, this is due to the ac3 codec. So my question is, how can I merge and then convert the avi files and then make them play (with sound) on my stand alone dvd-player?

[Baldrick]

Use convertxtodvd and add both avis. Convert and burn.

[ddeneale2]

But will that help me play the dvd on my standalone player with the AC3 codec?

[kush]

Then you must really have a POS player - AC3 is standard on NTSC discs. Short of actually looking to the What is DVD @ the left, I believe NTSC is allowed AC3, DTS, and WAV/PCM, and in the case of multiple tracks, one MUST be AC3..

Pretty much the same for PAL, except no REQUIREMENT (I think) for AC3, and you're also allowed MP2. But I digress, your profile says U.S., so no need to futz w/ PAL/European standards.

Lastly, with the influx into the US market of cheap Chinese (primarily) players, you can usually play pretty much anything, including MP2 audio on an NTSC disc - they don't always follow the respective DVD standards to a 'T'.

ON TOPIC though , this is what I'd do in your case..
Demux the audio/video, leave the audio ALONE - keep it to one side as it were when ready to re-mux, author the final DVD, etc.. Then, I'd encode each video stream SEPARATELY (ie: not combine, can cause sync issues). Then when @ authoring stage, if a n00b to the video world, I'd use Pegasys DVD Author..

Making sure both audio and video streams have the same names, just differ in their file extensions (and content of course; ie: .m2v/.mpv for video, .ac3 for audio)..And that they're both in the same file folder, then..

Add the stream, DVDA should pick up the audio stream automatically; otherwise you will need to select it manually. Don't worry about the AC3 plugin issue - it's only needed for editing purposes, you can load/use existing AC3 just fine.. Then add the 2nd aud/vid stream on the SAME track (NOT NEW 2nd TRACK, assuming we're doing pt 1/pt 2 of the SAME video), so that when compiled/played back the 2nd will just come up as the next chapter in the same film...Make you menu layout and other stuff as wanted, output, test w/ MPC or choice of software player to assure proper playback etc..Then burn...

[edit] @ Below response..I agree, drop it into GSpot and upload a screen to imageshack.us (or similar); there may be an issue here (somewhat) unrelated to the player itself.

[redwudz]

AC3 is pretty much the standard world wide for DVD audio. If you are having problems playing it with any DVD player, it my be out of specification for the DVD format. AC3Fix may be able to fix it. But try dropping it into Gspot 2.60 and see what it's specifications are. For DVD specifications and formats, look to the upper left for 'WHAT IS' DVD. <<<<<<

But I would try ConvertXToDVD first. It can handle most formats fairly well.

[ddeneale2]

Cool. Thank you all for your help.