LinuxCommandLibrary

transcode

Convert media files between different formats

TLDR

Create stabilization file to be able to remove camera shakes

$ transcode -J stabilize -i [input_file]
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Remove camera shakes after creating stabilization file, transform video using XviD
$ transcode -J transform -i [input_file] -y xvid -o [output_file]
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Resize the video to 640x480 pixels and convert to MPEG4 codec using XviD
$ transcode -Z 640x480 -i [input_file] -y xvid -o [output_file]
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SYNOPSIS

transcode [options]

PARAMETERS

-i input_file
    Specifies the input file to be transcoded.

-o output_file
    Specifies the output file to be created.

-x parameter_string
    Specifies an extended parameter string.

-y decoder_name
    Use the specified decoder.

-z encoder_name
    Use the specified encoder.

--export_prof profile_name
    Export current settings into profile profile_name

--import_prof profile_name
    Import settings from profile profile_name

-h
    Displays the help message.

DESCRIPTION

The transcode command is a powerful, versatile command-line tool for transcoding video and audio files between various formats. It supports a wide range of input and output codecs and containers, allowing you to convert files to be compatible with different devices and software.

Transcode provides fine-grained control over the transcoding process, including options for adjusting video and audio quality, resizing video, and adding filters.

Due to its flexibility and wide codec support, transcode is commonly used in various scenarios, such as preparing videos for online streaming, converting audio files for portable players, and creating DVD or Blu-ray discs. However, note that development appears to have largely stalled, and more modern tools like FFmpeg are often preferred for newer codecs and features.

CAVEATS

The transcode project seems to be abandoned and it's better to use FFmpeg for format conversion. Many examples that can be found online might not work with newer versions.

<B>CONFIGURATION FILES</B>

transcode utilizes configuration files to store default settings and profiles. These files can be customized to tailor the transcoding process to specific needs. The default locations are /etc/transcode/default.conf or ~/.transcode/default.conf.

<B>EXTENDED PARAMETER STRINGS</B>

The -x option allows you to pass arbitrary parameters to the underlying codecs. This provides fine-grained control over the transcoding process but requires a good understanding of the specific codec being used.

HISTORY

transcode was developed as a versatile tool for video and audio transcoding, aiming to support a broad range of formats and codecs. It was initially popular for tasks like DVD ripping and encoding. However, development has slowed down significantly in recent years, with more modern alternatives like FFmpeg gaining prominence due to their active development and support for newer codecs and features.

SEE ALSO

ffmpeg(1), mencoder(1)

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