Avi to (MPEG1, MPEG2 PS)

[kilee]

Hi folks.
I'm trying to convert some avi movies to mpeg1 or mpeg2 ps. I want to include hardcoded subtitles.
I'm following the ffmpegx instructions but I'm not successful.
I'm a totally beginner, but I managed to encode some other avi's with their subtites to .mov.
I need the resulting file to be in these formats because I can watch this files directly in my tv with a usb.
The answer must be nearby but I figure I'm not a good googler lol.

Best regards and my best wishes.

[kilee]

I have another problem as well..
When I play the files in my tv they look small. Is there a way to make them bigger??? Like full HD?
Thanks!

[Case]

I'm trying to convert some avi movies to mpeg1 or mpeg2 ps. I want to include hardcoded subtitles.

To hardcode subtitles, start out with the DVD mpeg2enc preset, then in the options tab change the decoder to "Decode with mplayer" (checkbox).

[Case]

When I play the files in my tv they look small. Is there a way to make them bigger?

I did recently look up such a tv feature for a Sony BX400, and was sort of amazed that it didn't have a scaling option.

You could upscale your USB files to a larger resolution of course. You'd have to test several files to see what resolution gives you full screen. It will create really big files, take a long time, and it would perhaps defeat the direct file playback purpose, as burning to DVD-R(W) would perhaps be easier, faster, give more playback features (menu, optional subs, chapters) and would bring portability (something to take over to a friend's house). The restricted features (no full screen scaling, limited formats) make its use quite limited. It is nice that the tv can do it, but it's just too hard to use regularly for clips and movies found on the internet, imho.

If you like to play media files WITHOUT any transcoding, then search for a media player box, such as the WD TV Live or one of the competing media player boxes. Full screen, HDMI, USB2, Ethernet (LAN access as well as internet), loads of file formats. Just play. But that's only my preference.

[kilee]

Thanks a lot!
I'll try and post my results.
You are right about getting an extra device. I'm kind of disappointed about the new tv (sony bravia) as it costed 150 bucks more just for having the usb features.

Do you think apple tv is worthy? I'm a mac user.

Have a very good day!

[Case]

Do you think apple tv is worthy?

Only if you plan to buy/'rent' iTunes videos/tv episodes/movies.
The Apple TV wants compatible .mp4/.m4v/.mov files. You can't throw just any file at it, so you still have to transcode other types of files (AVI, MKV, MPG, etc.) for it. Its input and output is limited to 720p max in vertical resolution.
Don't get me wrong, it's a nice media player, with good iTunes Store integration and an excellent interface. It does perform very well at what it aims to do, but it's not for everybody.

I wanted more formats and full HD (1080) capability, so I got the WD TV Live last august. It doesn't do everything, but a lot, and it seemed the best option for me at the time. It helps Mac users a lot that it handles HSF+ disks.

[hech54]

Are you ready to just go out and buy the damn DVD yet?

[kilee]

Case
It worked perfect.
Thanks a lot. I'll get the wd tv for shure.

Happy new year!!