Codec Question: AVC vs. MPEG2

Distorshun wrote on 10/3/2007, 7:12 AM

I recently saw a video that briefly talked about the AVC codec and how it can produce the same quality video as MPEG2 at half the bitrate. I always export my video in the Main Concept MPEG-2 format, then plug it into DVD Architect to create my DVD's. Vegas also has the Main Concept AVC codec and a Sony AVC codec. Should I be using these codecs instead if I want to produce high quality DVD video and save some space? Usually my DVD's have too much content and thus I'm having to compress the MPEG-2 video further inside of DVD Architect so it will fit on a DVD. Does anyone out there use the AVC codec?

Technical codec experts welcome...as long as you can dumb down your explanation for me :)

Comments

blink3times wrote on 10/3/2007, 7:39 AM

DVD players don't read AVChd.... only hi def players (BD or HD DVD players). DVDA does not do avchd either.... and I am not quite sure I would call them equal quality just yet (although avchd is well on its way). To my eyes there is still a marginal difference in mpeg's favor but not enough to lodge any serious complaint over.

Spot|DSE wrote on 10/3/2007, 7:44 AM

the key word in your post is "can." doesn't mean it will in all cases. There are several variables.
The answer to the second part of your question however, is that AVC may be used for for HD disc formats.
AVCHD will eventually replace most low-end formats much like DV. It's not entirely the grail that some are painting it to be.
As an experiment, grab the Sony HC7 HDV camcorder and the CX7 camcorder. Same imager, same lens, different quality output. If you think HDV falls apart in high motion, AVCHD isn't at all better at double the bitrate, not in the limited experiences we've had with the format. I'm sure Panasonic's proprietary format will be sweet, we'll know soon enough.