questions on median f/x

tfc wrote on 12/15/2004, 4:31 PM
I am trying to make a very crappy multi-generational copy of a VHS acceptable to view on DVD. I have done the best I can transferring the VHS to an AVI using TBC and a DNR filter. It still has a lot of noise/static in the video. I am now trying to use the median filter to further reduce some of the noise. I have read the help files in Vegas but still have some questions.

1) Which preset is better for toning down the level of noise and static in the video - the "light noise reduction" one or "round noise reduction" one? They both seem to be identical except that the "round noise reduction" one has the "circular area processing" item checked in the box on the f/x properties. What is really the difference between the two, and which would you use for certain circumstances?

2) What exactly is circular area processing? I know that it uses a circle instead of a square for determing median values, but what does this mean to me as a DV editor? When would you use "circular" vs. "square" for median determination? Is one advantageous for certain situations and not for others?

3) What is the preset entitled, "cut away section", and when/how do you use it?

Again, I am totally ignorant on this f/x, having never really used it before. If anyone can give me any tips, hints or info, I would really appreciate it!

Comments

BillyBoy wrote on 12/15/2004, 4:54 PM
Instead, I would use two FREE plug-ins from Mike Crash.

Dynamic Noise Reduction and Smart Smoother. Both are similar to a couple of similarly named VirtualDub filters. The Median FX mostly blurs and the downside is it is EXTREMELY slow, in fact the slowest filter that comes with Vegas.

How strong the application depends on the noise level. Best result will be obtained breaking the project into events and apply the filters to the event rather then the track or preview widow. If you need to add/decrease strength, remember to start the next event with the settings of the previous.

A major no-no (in my opinion) is to apply any filter project wise then setting up keyframes. The distance involved between keyframes can make the adjustment less effective. You still may need to tweak using keyframes BY EVENT what I always do with FX filters like Color Corrector. Much more time consuming for sure, but ther results are worth it.

tfc wrote on 12/15/2004, 7:24 PM
BillyBoy:

"Instead, I would use two FREE plug-ins from Mike Crash.

Dynamic Noise Reduction and Smart Smoother. Both are similar to a couple of similarly named VirtualDub filters. "

Great, BB, do you have a link or more info on how to obtain these free plug-in's? Thanks!
BillyBoy wrote on 12/15/2004, 7:45 PM
Try: http://mikecrash.wz.cz/


Spot|DSE wrote on 12/15/2004, 8:29 PM
If you'd like to see all the other plugs available for Vegas, including these from Mike, you can see em' all at http://www.vasst.com/training/Vegasplugs.htm
Everything available is listed and downloadable from there.

Mike's freebies are really nice, and there are a few others for free as well, such as the 6 value color correction tool.
tfc wrote on 12/15/2004, 9:40 PM
Thanks BB and Spot!

Can anyone help me with answers to the 3 questions in my first post?