which sounds better: PCM or MPEG-1 layer 2

[pokito]

I am converting my VHS collections to DVD and wondering which audio format I should use to get the best sound. The sound from VHS is Hi-Fi Stereo, Dolby Surround.

[mats.hogberg]

Since mpeg encoding is not lossless, I'd go for LPCM if you have the space for it.

/Mats

[lechtin]

I'm not sure if LPCM is lossless, but in any case it compresses much less than MPEG audio and is of better quality. Also, the DVD standard only requires DVD players to support LPCM and AC3. Most of the ones I tried do support mpeg audio, but it's never a garantee for compatibility (source: DVD Demystified).

[Sulik]

LPCM is uncompressed (Linear PCM), hence lossless.

[User-X]

I am converting my VHS collections to DVD and wondering which audio format I should use to get the best sound. The sound from VHS is Hi-Fi Stereo, Dolby Surround.

Not sure how you are doing the transfer. Do you have a stand alone machine which does the transfer (and happens to give the option for PCM or MPG) or are you doing it from a computer?

Assuming case one you may want to know that MPG audio is not standard. it may not work well on some DVD players. PCM audio takes up a lot of space. No easy choice there.

Assuming case two you may want to consider using Dolby Digital (*.AC3). The audio is compressed and an audio compressor is applied when using most AC3 encoders. The audio compressor may help keeping your audio from cracking up while the volume may drop a few DB. Try it out and see what happens. I think you'll find that there is a difference in perceived volume when compared with PCM. Some of my PCM audio cracks up a litttle on the TV.

Getting the best sound will have its greatest impact after you record assuming the original media is in good shape and your cables are strong, etcetera. Have you considered any editing to the audio once you get it. No matter how you capture in the end you'll have to use PCM to be able to edit effectively. Good luck guy, it's a lot of work. If you have anything that could be bought as a factory DVD then get it. The quality is much better than you could get off your VHS tapes.


User-X

[SatStorm]

Hi Fi sound from a VHS source is not worth PCM audio IMHO....

The way I see it, better proccess your audio and then encode it to mp2 @384kb/s (I only use 192Kb/s, but let's say that it is a psychological need to some people, to use a higher value for priceless stuff they own...)

So, you capture, you export to wav, you load the wave file to a program like Soundforge, you correct audio parameters and issues (DC Offset, maybe some hiss noise cut, a better volume / normalisation, etc) and then, using tooLAME you encode to mp2 @ 384kb/s.

IMHO this is better, 'cause gives you more space to use for the video part.

[lordsmurf]

is better, 'cause gives you more space to use for the video part.

MP2 or AC3 for the same reason.

[SatStorm]

Yeah, I forget... AC3 is neccessary for USA (R1) DVDs...


On paper, mp2 (musicam) is still the official audio for R2 Discs and AC3 just an ...alternative (like what is DTS for R1!)

Stupid big ones, messing things all time