Converting video files to VCD

[Hugh]

How/What are the steps needed to convert any video file to a VCD format, so I can watch it on my DVD? What software do I need.

I used to know how to do this on a G4, however that was years ago and I haven't got a clue. I am assuming that with a Intel machine it's different anyways.

Thanks!

Hugh

[ChemiosMurphy]

Whoa buddy...

VCDs are nasty stuff, MPEG1, so it's gonna be VHS quality. Most DVD players cannot play VCDs.... Sorry!

[huntercr]

How/What are the steps needed to convert any video file to a VCD format, so I can watch it on my DVD? What software do I need.

I used to know how to do this on a G4, however that was years ago and I haven't got a clue. I am assuming that with a Intel machine it's different anyways.

Thanks!

Hugh


You'll want to create an SVCD or XSVCD disc instead... that is a MPEG2 formatted CD and will play in almost any DVD player. There are tradeoffs in resolution that you can do for longer length content.

ffmpegX can create the XSVCD (http://www.videohelp.com/oldguides/xvcd) and SVCD ( their link is broken for that, but you can read about on the VCD page ) formats for you. It's a bit tricky and requires alot of fine tuning, and then it may not even work on your player.

I used to make 480x480 SCVDs all the time from my Tivo shows ( already the native resolution and format ).

HOWEVER, you might look into just buying a new DVD-R drive They're only like $40 US these days. It will work natively with iDVD, be better quality, more reliable, and will really make you alot happier.