Convert MKV to MPEG-2...format questions, etc.

[pcombs]

I have thirteen TV show episodes that were encoded in MKV format. These were recorded off a 720p source. I wish to copy these into MPEG-2 DVD-compatible files for use on my older NTSC equipment. However, I'll also want to have versions playable at full fidelity on a future HDTV setup.

So, the questions...

First, I understand that mencoder can do the conversion. I'm still struggling with the program in trying to get it working with TySuiteJ for my TiVo, so this is several steps beyond where I am in my knowledge. Has anyone done this before that can give me help with the necessary command-line options?

Second, in order to have a version of the files that will play in HD later, will I have to have them written to Blu-Ray discs?

Third, I'm not about the technical details of the files I have (bitrate, et cetera). Is there a utility that can examine video files and spit out that info for me?

Any / all help welcome on this...I must preserve these files for future enjoyment as the show was cancelled and there are no plans to release it on DVD of ANY kind, at least at the moment.

[45tripp]

First, I understand that mencoder can do the conversion. I'm still struggling with the program in trying to get it working with TySuiteJ for my TiVo, so this is several steps beyond where I am in my knowledge. Has anyone done this before that can give me help with the necessary command-line options?

it can.

Second, in order to have a version of the files that will play in HD later, will I have to have them written to Blu-Ray discs?

who knows,
how far into the future?
if you want to author a BD you need a blu-ray disk..
but there's HTPC's and media players, and streamers.
...
be specific

Third, I'm not about the technical details of the files I have (bitrate, et cetera). Is there a utility that can examine video files and spit out that info for me?

mediainfo