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

Input Decoding
The source file is decoded as needed, depending on global codec options.
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.
Output Writing
The converted or rewrapped video is written to the path specified via -o.
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.

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