Mpeg encoder cards

[MadmanJake]

I am looking for a faster way to encode avi's to mpeg2. I have been converting my home video's to DVD using Tmpgenc plus and I am happy with the results, but the encode process is very time consuming. Does anyone know of a hardware encoder that will do the job faster than Tmpgenc while still providing good quality? I know there are encoder cards that will let you encode on the fly as you capture, but I am looking for one that I can hand an avi after I am done editing it?

Thanks.
Jeff

[edDV]

Budget?

Start here.
http://www.canopus.us/US/products/Index/product_index.asp

[harley2ride]

Better yet, do some reading at www.videoguys.com. They have great information on real time editing solutions from semi-professional, all the way to full professional solutions.

[Baldrick]

or just try mainconcept mpeg encoder, cce basic, canopus procoder.

[MI6]

Inter Wideo WINDVD Recorder 5 Platinum is the best solution .

[MadmanJake]

I realize I did omit one important factor, my budget. Since I am only encoding my home movies and not doing this professionally, I don't want to spend more than about $200. I now know after going to the canopus web site that this may be unrealistic. I called the videoguys and they only have encoders that will encode during capture.
I guess I'll continue with my current process using Tmpgenc.

Thanks for the replies.
Jeff

[lordsmurf]

Encode projects overnight in batches, or while you're at school or work. Then you won't notice the conversion times.

[GreyDeath]

Lordsmurf is right, it's like watching a tea kettle to boil...

Working at home, it can be (and is) very distracting for me to encode during the day. But then, I'm an encoding junkie and love watching the progress bar move... :P