Re: Encoding for Documentary

Scott,

First of all, you don't need to encode at such a low bitrate. You can use an average of around 4.8 if your audio is Dolby Digital.

Second, a 1-pass encode at 3.7 is getting way into "you're pushing your luck" category. At that bitrate, you need 2-pass VBR. The problem is Apple Compressor is not a great encoder for low bitrate encodes. It produces extreme bitrate spikes both high and low.

Try a CBR or VBR 2-pass encode at 4.8, but make sure you set all the setting in Compressor for best quality. That will greatly increase the time required to encode, but it will also help the quality a lot.

The real solution for encoding at really low bitrates is a better encoder where you have more ability to control the encoding parameters.

Bill Stephan
Senior Editor/DVD Author
USA Studios
New York City