Canopus ADVC 1394..Is it a hardware encoder of mpeg?

[Werble]

Can someone please tell me if mpegs are created via the ADVC 1394 hardware or are mpegs encoded via software. Thanks.

[MrMungus]

Can someone please tell me if mpegs are created via the ADVC 1394 hardware or are mpegs encoded via software. Thanks.

Software.

http://www.canopus-aust.com/US/products/advc-1394/pt_advc-1394.asp

"* Using included software for Windows "

[Werble]

I have a an Nvidia Video card with s-video and composite video inputs to do most of my video captures. Since the ADVC 1394 uses software to encode mpegs, would it be better or the same video quality than using the Nvidia card since they both use software to encode the mpegs? What would be the benefits, if any, in using the 1394 over my Nvidia card?

[MrMungus]

I have a an Nvidia Video card with s-video and composite video inputs to do most of my video captures. Since the ADVC 1394 uses software to encode mpegs, would it be better or the same video quality than using the Nvidia card since they both use software to encode the mpegs? What would be the benefits, if any, in using the 1394 over my Nvidia card?

I'm not *sure*. Are you having quality problems with the way you're doing it now? What software do you currently use to capture to MPEG-2?

[Werble]

I am using an MSI Nvidia video card that's about 2 years old (64 megs memory) and using either PowerDVR or WinDVR to capture video. With almost all background services disabled I get good quality video captures with NO frames lost. I was under the impression that getting the ADVC 1394 card would yield better quality captures (sharper images, smoother video during fast action scenes). Apparantly this may not be the case.

[marylandmike]

I have the ADVC 1394 pci card and get excellent captures using Ulead Video Studio 7 software. Just upgraded to a faster computer and am quite pleased with the results and the time it takes.

[Werble]

Thats great Marylandmike but are the captures you get from the ADVC 1394 better than other capture devices like my MSI Nvidia card? If software is being used to encode mpegs, then how is the quality any better than using another capture device? That's what I am trying to determine. I obviously want to save my money rather than spending it on a card that would not yield better results.

[marylandmike]

Since it is software encoded I won't think that there would be any noticeable difference. Only when you get to the higher priced equipment will the encoding be done on board. But I would have to check the web site to verify.

Main reason I got the ADVC card cause of the video/audio sync being locked. Never have had a problem since. Before I was always having to make a delay adjustment to get those in sync.