convert

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Description

Performs a simple video file conversion using global Videobeaux encoding settings.
Useful for remuxing, transcoding, codec changes, rewrapping containers, or generating standardized media versions.

Purpose

convert exists as a lightweight, universal tool for turning one media container or codec into another.
This is ideal for:

• converting incompatible formats into editing-friendly files,
• rewrapping media without re-encoding,
• transcoding to delivery-safe formats,
• preparing videos for downstream Videobeaux programs,
• batch normalization of mixed-file libraries.

How It Works

1. Input Decoding
   The source file is decoded as needed, depending on global codec options.
2. Re-encode or Stream Copy
   • If no codec is specified, Videobeaux uses its global defaults.
   • If codecs are set globally (vcodec, acodec), convert applies them here.
   • If settings allow stream copy, the video may be remuxed without re-encoding.
3. Output Writing
   The converted or rewrapped video is written to the path specified via -o.
4. No Additional Logic
   This program intentionally provides a pure conversion operation, without filtering or modification.

Program Template

videobeaux -P convert \
  -i input.mp4 \
  -o output.mp4

Arguments

• (No program-specific arguments — this module relies entirely on Videobeaux global encoding settings.)

Real World Example

videobeaux -P convert \
  -i myvideo.mp4 \
  -o convert_styled.mp4

Technical Notes

• Rewrapping (e.g., MKV → MP4) is extremely fast when using stream copy.
• Full transcoding (e.g., H.264 → ProRes, AAC → WAV) depends on global audio/video codec settings.
• File size and transcoding time are directly impacted by CRF, bitrate, and preset settings.
• Useful for generating clean, uniform input files before applying more complex Videobeaux processes.

Recommended Usage

• Normalizing transcoded footage from varied sources.
• Preparing content for editing systems that dislike certain containers/codecs.
• Creating proxy versions for offline workflows.
• Converting videos to universally compatible formats for distribution, archive, or broadcast.

Quality Tips

• Use a low CRF (14–18) for high-quality archival intermediates.
• If the goal is speed, choose faster presets (e.g., faster, fast).
• For maximum compatibility, output H.264 + AAC in MP4.
• For high-end workflows, output ProRes or another mezzanine codec.
• Always verify that audio channel layouts survive the conversion correctly.