Best DV codec (freeware or otherwise)

zcream

zcream

Well-known member
Premiere uses the MS Codec, and from my research, every time we render out a file, there is a loss (AVI is compressed to 25 Mbps). Any recommendations for an alternative codec that we could use from within Premiere ??
 
DV is 25mbps--no ifs, ands, or buts. Doesn't matter who the codec provider is, you'll always be limited to that bitrate and compression ratio. Some DV codecs are better than others, but for straight-up capture of raw footage, there shouldn't be much difference between codecs. When you apply effects and create finished renders and exports at DV25, that's where codec differences will begin to propagate.

I assume you're talking about exporting a finished edit to a single movie file. If so, you could use the "Uncompressed MS AVI" option. It will tip the scales on file size vs. what a DV file would be, but won't apply any additional compression to already-compressed footage. However, if you're talking about something else altogether, please supply more information.
 
Thanks for putting this clearly. I was looking for the best option to use while exporting as compressed avi.
I've heard good stuff about Canopus and Avid. And there is an unsupported Panasonic codec. Just wondering whats the best to use ?
 
Canopus' codecs are good but are playback-only, so that won't help. Avid codecs are also quite good but they're QuickTime codecs, and since your QT export options are a little limited from Premiere Pro, it's probably not your best choice.
It really ultimately depends on the size of your project, the type of composition (ie. interview-style, or effects-heavy?), and what you plan to do with the file and where you want to go with it. That will help determine the best export option.
 
ive found that the matrox dv codec which is available in the matrox codec pack for free. (check matrox.com) is a nice one to use .. it is true that DV, is DV, is DV. but different codecs certainly do have thier advantages from the encoding process when exporting or rendering. for example, the matrox codec has optional chroma smoothing and chroma blending, which can help eliminate some noise and staircasing on second generation Dv material when you render it out. especially those nasty reds.
 
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