How to convert mpeg to DVD files (vob, etc.)

[dblackhawk]

Hi,
Thanks to this forum, I've learned to use DVD Shrink, etc. and can now back-up DVD's perfectly.
Now, I'd like tio tackle something else.
I have an old 3 part TV series that I've captured from VHS using my TV Wonder card. They're saved as mpeg files.
I can't seem to make a menu for it, or convert the files to ifo and vob files.
Could someone tell me what the best program is for making menus and/or turning the mpegs into DVD files? I use DVD Shrink, Nero, and DVD Dycrypter.
THANKS!
dblackhawk

[HARRYSPADGE]

Give TMPGEnc DVD author a go, it's trialware so you can try before you buy.

You could also look in the TOOLS section on the left of this page and you will find more programs under the 'DVD Author' section.
Take a look at some of the programs and read some of the reviews for more info.

[dphirschler]

There are freeware solutions. Check into one of the free encoders (FreeEnc, HC, Qenc) if your video is not up to DVD spec. If it is, then check your audio. ffmpegGUI is good for ac3 conversion. Then you can use DVDauthorgui to author your DVD structure (VIDEO_TS, etc). Then you can use Imgtool Classic to create an ISO image and DVD Decrypter to burn the ISO.

Sounds like a lot, of hassle, but it's not too bad. And you can't beat free.


Darryl

[dblackhawk]

Thanks for the advice, it's greatly appreciated.

I have another question:

The 3 episodes I captured as mpegs and want to put on DVD total a little over 2 1/4 hours in time. I know that some of the DVDs I backed up with DVDShrink have at least that much running time on them plus, and I'm using 4.7 GB DVDs for recording. Even then, when backing up with DVDShrink, there's still alot of room left on the DVD.
Is there a way I can fit these 3/45 minute episodes on 1 DVD?

Thanks Again,
dblackhawk

[jimmalenko]

Bitrate = Running Time * bitrate.

Therefore if your filesize is too low, the only thing you can increase to take up more filesize is the bitrate, given your source is still 2.25 hours long. To increase bitrate means either a re-encode (which IMO is pointless, since it's not going to improve your quality any) or re-capture at a higher bitrate to start with (which will more than likely improve quality to a varying degree - this opens up the age-old frame size Vs acceptable bitrates question though).

You can calculate "ballpark" bitrates required using a Bitrate Calculator. I'd always go on the conservative side (under), to give your encoder a bit of room to move.

[dphirschler]

Hard to tell from your post but it sounds like you are concerned it won't fit because of the time (length). Ignore that. It's all about size, and it sounds like you have plenty of room.


Darryl