Quick question about dual-layer burn

[vinandmel]

I am about to save my first really long project to MPEG format and am planning to burn to a dual layer DVD. In the MPEG settings under "Compression" there is a box that says "Two-pass encode". I cannot find any info about this box in the help index, the manual, or at the U-lead site. Do I need to check this box for dual-layering? Do I need to make any other settings changes prior to saving to MPEG or burning? The manual suggests changing the variable data rate to 4000 kbps, but in the forum one suggestion says to just change it to 7500. Any suggestions?

[htchien]

For dual-layer burning, you do not need Two Pass Encoding. You can burn the dual-layer disk just like burning a single-layer one.

H.T.

[willydeluxe]

Can I jump in here and ask "What is Two-pass encode, and when and why would it be used?"

[Ron P.]

Two-pass encoding is a process where the program looks at your video, checking for areas that have no motion, and areas that have the most motion. The areas with no motion do not need the degree of encoding/compression that the areas of extreme or fast motion does. So it uses the higher bit-rates for those fast motion areas, and lowest bitrates for the areas that are still. That provides for better quality, at lesser file sizes. That is done on the first pass. Then on the second pass the video clip is encoded. Commercial DVDs use up to a 20 pass encoding, using encoders that cost more then my house, to achieve the crisp, clear detail in their videos.

So if you have a video clips that have say several still shots coupled with shots with camera pans, or the action is moving fast like sporting events, car races, etc.. then you might benefit from using the two-pass encoding. There is a trade off, which is... it is going to take longer to render.

[willydeluxe]

Thanks