Encoding Types - TC Group

Programmes recorded on tape format need to be 'encoded' to a digital format before being played on disc. Thankfully, whatever the format of your tape master, we can encode it for you. The most common encoding types are:

MPEG1 has been used for some years. Still popular because it doesn't rely on any specific player and can be used universally on PCs and Macs.

MPEG2 is the standard for DVD-Video (higher quality than MPEG1). The quality is dependent on the bit-rate at which the video has been encoded. Higher bit-rates are required for video with more movement.

Quicktime is designed by Apple, but is now capable of being played on most PCs with the installation of the Quicktime player.

Windows Media Player, Real Player and Flash Video are also capable of being played on most PCs with the installation of the appropriate player. Commonly used in web streaming.

Give us a call for some advice from our techno-gurus if you're unsure!