Newbie question: OS X software for DVD to Xvid conversion?

[pgwerner]

I'm new to DVD conversion and unfortunately, most of the guides I come across are highly Windows-centric. I'd like to get some recommendation for OS X software for this purpose (preferably freeware or inexpensive shareware), and perhaps pointers to Mac-friendly tutorials on the subject. The format I'd like to copy the DVDs to is high-resolution Xvid encased in mp4. Basically, something that will maintain good resolution if played on full screen.

Thanks in advance for any info you can provide.

Peter

[Baldrick]

Tried handbrake?

and I'm moving you to our mac section.

[terryj]

VisualHub, ffmpegx, handbrake, D-Vision, quicktime pro w/ Perian or Xvid codec....the list is endless.

[pgwerner]

I just tried Handbrake. It works wonderfully – thanks!

[tomlee59]

My personal favorite among all those mentioned is D-Vision. It has a level of polish that is surprising for a totally free tool. Many commercial apps are not nearly as well written. If you plan to do a lot of conversions into DivX/XviD, you may want to take a look at it.

(And no, I am not related to any of its developers.)

[pgwerner]

Interesting to learn that about D-Vision. I actually have it installed on my computer, but have always used it as an AVI joining and splitting tool. I had no idea until reading this thread I could also write DVD to AVI with it.

[tomlee59]

For me it was the other way around. I didn't realize until later that the Tools button existed (I'm not too observant). That's when I found the cutting/joining tools.