Most space efficient way to store VCD

[vcd_user]

I am new to video files. I have a lot of VCDs which I like to back up. I Know that VCDs are mpeg1 which I should be able to compress further without loosing much quality. I am looking for free or commercial software to do the work. However all the softwares just say that they can convert video files from one format to the other. But I have problem finding information on which format is the most space efficient for the same quality. I don't have a problem storing all the backup on hard drive first and figure out where to write it to later (a DVD writer is in the plan, but no budget yet).
Any suggestion ?

[indolikaa]

I would disagree that VideoCD streams can be further compressed without much loss of quality. In addition to creating a non-compliant VideoCD, compression below the standard video bitrate is likely to cause further pixelation that you already have.

Having said that, you could use the KVCD templates found at www.kvcd.net and try that approach. But keep in mind that you are creating a non-complaint VideoCD and it may not play on all players.

Good luck.

[andyp1]

I used this guide to create 1 disc VCD's.
It can be done with TMPGenc fairly easily and for free.

[RabidDog]

You could either use something like winzip at the highest compression setting to create an archive file or you convert your VCD's to a high bitrate xvid/divx. The second option will save you the most space, they will compress to a quarter of thier size.

[nexus123]

You could zip them or convert to a divx. But they will not play on your standalone player. I use the method in the guide on here using tmpeg and it works really well.

[davemcg37]

the 1 disc method is the way to go

[nexus123]

works great for me