Minimum Bitrate MPEG2 encoding

[Rob D.]

Hi--
My first post. I want to make Video DVD's essentially only for AC3 5.1 sound playback-- the image will not be used and I want 6-12 hour long sound pieces. I'm just getting started using ffmpegX and having assorted issues using the QT and MPlayer encoders, but I was wondering if anyone is aware of actual bit rate minimums or other factors I'm overlooking. The AC3's are 448 kbps; I'd like video rates of 50-100 kbps, if possible. Thanks

[DB83]

Whether you use it or not, there must be a compliant video track if it is to be a compliant dvd.

Someone may correct me on this but I believe the ABSOLUTE minimum is 1150 kbps @ 320*240 (as is VCD)

[manono]

Whether you use it or not, there must be a compliant video track if it is to be a compliant dvd.

Someone may correct me on this but I believe the ABSOLUTE minimum is 1150 kbps @ 320*240 (as is VCD)

If by compliant video track you include a BMP picture (which gets converted to a single frame M2V, I believe), then yes. And the minimum bitrate can be set at zero. I make all mine with a minimum of 250.

I have no idea how to do this on a Mac, but Muxman loaded with a single 720x480/576 BMP together with the audio track will author a compliant DVD. The video portion will take up next to no space. I expect that any Mac authoring program fed a single frame M2V together with the audio can do the same.

[El Heggunte]

[ - - - ]

[Rob D.]

Whether you use it or not, there must be a compliant video track if it is to be a compliant dvd.

Someone may correct me on this but I believe the ABSOLUTE minimum is 1150 kbps @ 320*240 (as is VCD)

If by compliant video track you include a BMP picture (which gets converted to a single frame M2V, I believe), then yes. And the minimum bitrate can be set at zero. I make all mine with a minimum of 250.

I have no idea how to do this on a Mac, but Muxman loaded with a single 720x480/576 BMP together with the audio track will author a compliant DVD. The video portion will take up next to no space. I expect that any Mac authoring program fed a single frame M2V together with the audio can do the same.

= = =

Never overlook the obvious! Worked as you suggested and fantastically easy.

A test 10.1 MB AC3 track muxed with a 720 X 435 still image using DVDSP to produce a VTS_01_1.VOB file that 10.8 MB in size. DVD has some neat provisions, huh? Thanks a ton. You saved me hours of experimentation!