Problems with export

[Michael Gissing]

Like any variable data rate codec H264 can look amazing or rubbish. File size tells us nothing without knowing how long the file is and what sort of data rate you chose. Also CBR vs VBR 2 pass makes a difference depending on the sort of content. lots of variables.

If you have Compressor you might get a slightly better result particularly if you are also changing pixel size or are you trying to output just 1920 x 1080 H264?

[Eric Strand]

As Michael said, you need to provide more information. Here is a video tutorial on using MPEG Streamclip to make an H.264.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwuELmK_ZrA

@ericstrand11

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[Manu Cataldi]

Well, I think I kinda solved the problem.

It looks that the MPEG Streamclip quality slider DOES affect when it comes to H264 codec. I’ve read that it doesn’t.

I was getting a 50% quality file, size 40mb and now I get a 870mb file with slider on 100%

Asuming that the quality slider was my first problem, I’m still having problems with gamma shift between the ProRes 442 master to H264.

Any ideas?

[Eric Strand]

Yes, Apple’s version of H.264 is renowned for that gamma shift and overall being one of the poorest versions of the codec. Try using Handbrake, which uses the open source x.264, or Adobe Media Encoder.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANXJYvxVikI

@ericstrand11

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[Manu Cataldi]

I’m considering this project for screening at my university. They asked for a H264 file that will be played on a laptop.

I noticed a gamma shift in the first step, when converting source footage H264 to ProRes 442.

Let’s say I’m ok with that, but now, in the final step, I want the best results in getting a H264 master for the screening.

Most of tutorials only cover web compression in terms of small file size with average quality for upload.

So, which settigs do I have to use to a get the best H264 compression with my ProRes 442 master?

Thanks in advance.

[Eric Strand]

If you’re okay with the gamma shift and you are pleased with your 870 MB file from MPEG Streamclip then use that. It all comes down to the eye test.

@ericstrand11

[Manu Cataldi]

Hi Dave, glad you mentioned it, I already have Adobe Media Encoder CS5.

Which settings do you recommend?

[Eric Strand]

Hey Manu, choose H.264 as the Format, then choose something like Match Source High Bitrate for the preset. I only have AME CC so I’m not sure which presets 5.5 has. I would go for a CBR of 15mbps or VBR 2-pass 10 – 15mbps. You could also use one of the YouTube or Vimeo presets and pick whichever has a higher bitrate.

@ericstrand11