Workflow format

[zapster]

I like using DV as my intermediate format during editing but the space requirements are huge so I'm considering moving to mpg2 instead. Are there tools that will edit without recompressing frames that have not been changed during the edit process?

[Megahurts]

Mpeg-vcr does a good job for simple edits. If you need a timeline, transistions and titles then MPEG Video Wizard will work.

Both are by Womble.

[guns1inger]

Unless you cut only on I frames, you cannot edit mpeg video without re-encoding some frames. Even dedicated editor such as Womble will have to re-encode any GOPs broken by a cut. Depending on the source encoding, this could be up to 17 frames per edit. If you make any adjustments (colour, brightness etc) or overlay text or add transitions then you force more encoding.

That said, other tools to consider include VideoRedo (similar to Mpeg-VCR but with some extra tricks up it's sleeve) and the tmpgenc mpeg editor.

I use VideoRedo and Womble Mpeg Wizard myself.

Final thought : external HDDs are cheap, and more than adequate for editing from. I would seriously consider purchasing a 320 or 500 GB external drive and continuing to use DV for editing.

[zapster]

Final thought : external HDDs are cheap, and more than adequate for editing from. I would seriously consider purchasing a 320 or 500 GB external drive and continuing to use DV for editing.

heh...I've already got a terrabyte drive.

[guns1inger]

Then why move to mpeg-2 for storage and editing ? The best long term archival storage for DV source is still DV tape. Transfer to your PC, edit, then write the results back to DV for backup. Then author.

[zapster]

Then why move to mpeg-2 for storage and editing ? The best long term archival storage for DV source is still DV tape. Transfer to your PC, edit, then write the results back to DV for backup. Then author.

If I had room I'd keep it all in DV but I'm out of space. So, need to find something that is smaller. mpeg2 seems like a good option. mpeg4 might be better but seems like limited editing options.