transcode

Create stabilization file to be able to remove camera shakes

$ transcode -J stabilize -i [input_file]

$ transcode -J transform -i [input_file] -y xvid -o [output_file]

$ transcode -Z 640x480 -i [input_file] -y xvid -o [output_file]

transcode [general_options] -i input_file [input_options] -o output_file [output_options]

-i
    Specifies the input multimedia file or device (e.g., DVD).

-o
    Specifies the output multimedia file.

-V
    Selects the video encoder module (e.g., mpeg2, xvid, h264).

-A
    Selects the audio encoder module (e.g., mp3, ac3, aac).

-m
    Selects the muxer module for the output container format (e.g., mpeg, avi, mp4).

-N
    Sets the output video aspect ratio (e.g., 4:3, 16:9).

-r
    Sets the output video framerate (frames per second).

-j
    Crops the video frame. Geometry typically in left:right:top:bottom pixel offsets.

-s
    Scales the video frame to a specified resolution (e.g., 720x480).

-y
    Overwrites existing output files without prompting for confirmation.

transcode is a comprehensive, command-line multimedia processing tool, part of the transcode-tools suite. It enables conversion between various audio and video formats, DVD ripping, and stream manipulation. Unlike monolithic tools, transcode operates using a modular architecture, employing separate modules for input (demuxer), video processing (encoders, filters), audio processing, and output (muxer).

This design provides extensive control over every aspect of the transcoding process, from codec selection and bitrates to complex video filters like cropping, scaling, and deinterlacing. While powerful, its syntax can be intricate, often requiring detailed knowledge of media formats and command-line options. It was historically a prominent tool for DVD backup and media conversion on Linux, though newer tools like FFmpeg have become more prevalent due to their broader format support and often simpler syntax for common tasks.

transcode has a notoriously steep learning curve due to its extensive options and modular structure. It can be less actively maintained than modern tools like FFmpeg, potentially leading to compatibility issues with very new codecs or formats. Installation with all desired module support can sometimes be challenging due to various dependencies.

The core strength and complexity of transcode lie in its modular design. It uses separate dynamically loaded modules for:

• Input (Demuxers): Handle reading various container formats and extracting streams.
• Video Filters/Encoders: Perform video processing (scaling, cropping, deinterlacing) and encoding into target video codecs.
• Audio Filters/Encoders: Process and encode audio streams.
• Output (Muxers): Combine the processed video and audio streams into the desired output container format.

transcode emerged as part of the transcode-tools project, gaining popularity in the early to mid-2000s primarily for DVD ripping and general multimedia conversion on Linux. It predates the widespread dominance of FFmpeg for general-purpose transcoding, offering a highly customizable alternative. Its modular design was a key feature, allowing users to swap out different demuxers, encoders, and muxers, providing fine-grained control over the transcoding pipeline. While still functional, its usage has waned in favor of more user-friendly and frequently updated tools.

ffmpeg(1), mencoder(1), mediainfo(1), handbrakecli(1)