What happens if AVI video is 4:3 and you change to 16:9 during encoding?

[geek2330]

My camcorder gives me 4:3 ratio AVI files. In looking at different encoders, such as Total Video Converter, they give you the option to switch or choose a new ratio of 16:9

Would that be a mistake to do, will quality from 720x480 decrease or will video look worse when watched in DVD players on TV?

It is strange that I am experimenting with Total Video Converter I loaded the AVI file and the settings defaulted to 16:9, whereas AVI2DVD defaults to 4:3

Wanted to ask the question before proceeding.

[guns1inger]

If you encode 4:3 material as 16:9 in an all-in-one converter it will simply encode with 16:9 flags, and your playback will give you a squashed image. If it is 4:3 then encode it as 4:3.

[Cunhambebe]

Yes! A ball will look like a tangerine