Audio Encoding (MPG vs PCM vs AC3)

[rrstudio2]

I know that the official DVD standard is that at least one audio track needs to be either PCM wave or AC3, however seeing as PCM wave files are so large and that many (at least the ones I have) video editing packages don't let you encode dolby digital (AC3), I am wondering about encoding audio as MPG since most give an option to export as MPG audio? Have you found that DVD created with MPG audio are compatible when played in most set top DVD players? So far, I have tried about 5 different DVD players and they all seem to play DVDs with MPEG audio just fine, but I don't know if there will be issues related to widespread compatibility. Anyone here have issues playing DVDs with only MPG audio on them?

-Andrew V. Romero

[junkmalle]

Have you found that DVD created with MPG audio are compatible when played in most set top DVD players?

I've tried maybe a dozen NTSC DVD players -- all had no problems with MPEG Layer 2 audio.

[RowMan]

I have traded my own home made MPEG Layer 2 audio DVDs with almost 100 people and only one person had a problem, but that person said he just had to change an audio setting on his player and then it worked fine. Unless you're mastering for mass production (like for pressed DVDs that need to be 100% compliant), I think you'll be OK.

[SatStorm]

mp2 (AKA musicam) is the official audio for Region 2 DVDs. AC3, is like what is DTS officially for us here.

Nowdays, all dvd standalones use common parts for all regions. So, mp2 is supported by the manufactures everywhere nowdays...

[virendra]

I had made a dvd with mp2 audio, and to start with playing I got only video playing but when I changed my audio setting in the yamaha receiver to analog the audio atarted working perfect