need to correct Aspect Ratio by padding/adding black bars - author AVCHD

[texas1]

I have a sports video MKV file with Aspect Ratio dimensions of 1280 x 648. On a computer the image has black bars on top and bottom, in a cinema type look and displays fine.

However when converting to an AVCHD disk to play on a BR player, while the dimensions remain 1280x648, the image on HDTV lacks the black bars on top or bottom thus producing a look where the players are stretched 7' tall.

I need software, preferably free, that can padl the black bars on top so that the ultimate image is 1280 x 720 . That is, fill in the missing 72 dots (720-648) either have 36 on top & bottom or even just 72 on top /bottom.

I use multiavchd to author avchd dvds and sometimes Handbrake to re-encode, but what can produce these black bars?

have a Sony BR player and Samsung Plasma 42" B450 HDTV - tried adjustmests on Aspect ratio / Pic size on both but no luck

[poisondeathray]

multiavchd can do it (add borders), as can uncropmkv

[texas1]

multiavchd can do it (add borders), as can uncropmkv

i use multiavchd all the time but can't find the place to add the padded borders... kindly advise ....thanks

[texas1]

figured it out.... use the Transcode button on multiavchd (no the Properties). Then set to 1280x720, which converted my 1276x646 original perfectly with a thin black bar on top and bottom.

if you get the message "Transcode may not work if you see this message", you need to download and install codes. I used Essentials Codec Pack

http://windows-essentials-codec-pack.en.softonic.com/