Video Bitrate

[d4mo]

So I'm using Windows Media Encoder to convert videos for my zune. The encoder doesn't give the original bitrate of the video.

Now without downloading any new software, how could I go about finding out the bitrate of the video?

Because I don't want to convert it to a higher bitrate than the source. I assume that would lead to some bad quality.

 

[EarthwormJim]

Depending on the container and codec, Windows may be able to pull out that info.

Right click the file, click properties, then go to details.

A higher bitrate than the source won't ruin the quality, it just won't be any better than what you started with.

Alternately if you already have media player classic installed, just open up the video file, right click the play screen and click properties. It will be able to tell you more than Windows or Windows Media Player will.

 

[Emulex]

vlc player will tell you.

you realize that even though WMV could be generated as CBR 1000kbp/s that really is more or less like VBR up to 1000kbp/s - which is what the zune plays natively when windows converts. so when you watch the VLC player - you will probably see the bitrate move around. that's what i've seen i don't have a fancy new zune HD so it could be different for that. just a brown turd (or 3)

 

[M0RPH]

Media Player Classic will usually show the bitrate in Properties.

 

[Gooberlx2]

Unless you do want the extra control over quality (if you're going to use the TV out), why not let the Zune software do the conversion? On the small screen size of the Zune, it'll be pretty hard to tell the difference in most cases.

 

[gottogo99]

I know you don't want to install new software but GSpot is a single exe file which will tell you what you want to know.