Audio format conundrum

[dazzler]

In VS 9 project preferences, I set video as DV Encoder Type 1 and Audio as NTSC DV Audio, 48 khz, 16 bit which seemed simple enough.

After editing a number 5 minute clips, converting them to avi and checking them, I notice variances in format.

1. Most are now using video DV Encoder Type 2 with audio in PCM, 48 khz, 16 bit stereo.

2. One is using video DV Encoder Type 1, NTSC DV Audio, 32 khz, 12 bit stereo.

3. Fortunatly they are all using lower field first.

I suspect that Steadyhand changed them to DV Encoder Type 2, but I don't know how the audio changed to PCM.

All avis will be put together in the the final product which is intended for a DVD to be watched only on TV, but the question is how should I handle the variances?

A. Should I convert all DV type 2 files to DV type 1 or vice versa?

B. Should I convert all PCM audio files to NTSC DV audio at 48 khz, 16 bit or vice versa? What's the easiest way to do this and maintain lip sync?

Any ideas are warmly welcomed.
Don,
Ottawa, Ontario Canada

[DVDDoug]

DV uses PCM. It is usually stereo 16-bits 48kHz. Or, it can be 4-channel 12-bits, 32kHz. This is usually determined by a setting on the camera during recording.

Of course, the 16-bit 48kHz setting is better quality. But, if you are using 4-channels, that won't be an option (during recording).

(2- channels, 16-bits 48Khz, and 4-channels 12-bits 32kHz both work out to the same file size and bitrate.)

[Ken Berry]

If the DV Type 2 plays back properly on your computer (i.e. no jerking in either video or audio, or no audio pops), then you can use it as it is, with Type 1 Encoded DV.

Video Studio for some reason (at least on my computer) on installations sets Type 2 as the default. It just happens that my computer can handle it with no problems. But some people have difficulties, and we recommend they go to into the Options icon on the Capture page and change the default to Type 1 Encoder.