The Bottom Line
Need a simple way to convert various video files to DVD-ready MPEG-2 or VCD-ready MPEG-1 files for burning to DVD or VCD? Then the TMPGEnc DVD Source Creator 4 is the program for you. The program can convert .AVI, .WMV, .MOV, MPEG-1/MPEG2, HD MPEG and .DVR-MS, among others, to DVD-ready MPEG-2 or VCD-ready MPEG-1 in an easy 4 step process. Also includes editing capabilities and 12 video filters, such as black and white and sepia tone. A very easy to use and handy program to have for converting multiple format video files to MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 for DVD and VCD burning.
Pros
- Easily convert video files to DVD or Video CD ready files
- Simple 4 step process to get your video files ready to burn DVDs or Video CDs
- Fast editing of video files
- Enhance video files with 12 different filters
Cons
- Need a seperate program to burn DVD or Video CD
Description
- Simple User Interface - step-by-step converting of video files
- Precision Encoding - take almost any video file and encode in MPEG-1/2
- Fast Editing - cut edit at the frame level
- Powerful Filters - 12 filters, including color correction, black & white and sepia tone
Guide Review - Review of TMPGEnc DVD Source Creator 4
I really enjoyed using TMPGEnc DVD Source Creator 4. I was able to grab video files from multiple sources and combine them all into one MPEG-2 Video File - ready to be burned to DVD using separate DVD Burning Software.
The interface couldn't be easier to use: The program is set up in 4 distinct sections, Start, Source, Format and Encode.
The Start page is where you open an existing project or start a new project. The Source page is where you add Video Files to your project, either manually or with a wizard (great for beginners).
The Source page is also where you can edit video files you've added and/or apply video filters to enhance your videos. The video editing is fairly simple and straight-forward. When editing, a new window pops up for trimming clips frame-by-frame and adding filters.
The Format page is where you choose the type of video file you want to create based on whether you want a VCD-ready MPEG-1 file or a DVD-ready MPEG-2 file. Customize how you would like the video file created or use the default settings.
The Encode page is where the new video file is created.
I used DVD Source Creator 4 to convert .MOV, .AVI, and .WMV video files to both MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 with great results. My only complaint: you can't burn your VCD or DVD with this program. It would be nice to have the encoding and burning in one program. However, using separate DVD/VCD Burning Software is no big deal. An excellent MPEG1/2 Encoder for those looking to easily create DVD or VCD-ready video files from multiple video sources. Download at http://tmpgenc.pegasys-inc.com/en/shopping/dsc4.html ($39.95 US)
The interface couldn't be easier to use: The program is set up in 4 distinct sections, Start, Source, Format and Encode.
The Start page is where you open an existing project or start a new project. The Source page is where you add Video Files to your project, either manually or with a wizard (great for beginners).
The Source page is also where you can edit video files you've added and/or apply video filters to enhance your videos. The video editing is fairly simple and straight-forward. When editing, a new window pops up for trimming clips frame-by-frame and adding filters.
The Format page is where you choose the type of video file you want to create based on whether you want a VCD-ready MPEG-1 file or a DVD-ready MPEG-2 file. Customize how you would like the video file created or use the default settings.
The Encode page is where the new video file is created.
I used DVD Source Creator 4 to convert .MOV, .AVI, and .WMV video files to both MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 with great results. My only complaint: you can't burn your VCD or DVD with this program. It would be nice to have the encoding and burning in one program. However, using separate DVD/VCD Burning Software is no big deal. An excellent MPEG1/2 Encoder for those looking to easily create DVD or VCD-ready video files from multiple video sources. Download at http://tmpgenc.pegasys-inc.com/en/shopping/dsc4.html ($39.95 US)