Xvid files: convert for VCD or DVD?

[bazzzzzzzzz]

If I have an Xvid file I want to watch on a DVD/VCD player how do I know whether it would convert better to either VCD or DVD?

I've always converted to VCD assuming just by file size that they're not suitable for DVD conversion but I found a guide here for Xvid to DVD conversion in which the filesize is 700mb - so a film sized Xvid of 700mb is good enough for DVD I assume

(Gspot says the file I'm about to convert is 23.97 fps, bitrate 766 kb/s, 512x384)

[ZippyP.]

For a PAL DVD you can choose from 3 basic resolutions 352X288 (equal to VCD), 352X576 (1/2 DVD) and 704 or 720 X 576 (full DVD). Which resolution is closest to your source? That is what you should be trying to determine when you go to make your DVD. Pick the closest one and make your mpeg to suit, don't bother with VCD. The lowest DVD resolution is basically VCD on a DVD anyway.

I'd use 1/2 DVD for your example which is NTSC, therefore 352X480.

[bazzzzzzzzz]

The lowest DVD resolution is basically VCD on a DVD anyway.

Thanks for that! I won't bother with VCDs then

[jagabo]

For a 512x384 source I'd go with 704x576 for PAL DVD.

[mwkurt]

Why a PAL DVD? His frame rate indicates the source was film. This is NTSC I believe. Pull up needs to be applied if this is to be played on a television. I would go half D1 to 350x480. This is easily accomplished in an application like SVCD2DVD.
Mark

[jagabo]

Or 704x480 if he wants an NTSC DVD. 352x480 will be noticably less clear than his 512x384 source.

[jimmalenko]

Why a PAL DVD?

Probably because the OP's location is the UK ...

... but I agree - they'd probably still be better off keeping it NTSC.