Transfer DVD to computer files

[misterfish]

This is not commercially produced DVDs but ones I've recorded myself.

We used to have a Phillips DVD recorder and it was straightforward to transfer and convert files on the computer; .vob to .mp4 and .avi

We now have a Panasonic DVD recorder. I can produce a DVD with the machine that will play fine on another DVD player or PC, but when I try converting the files (and removing adverts) the end product is always the wrong aspect ratio.

Can anybody recommend software (free or low cost if possible) that will allow me to edit the DVD files and end up with .avi or .mkv files that I can store on my NAS and then play back on the PC or using my Popcorn Hour.

I use Windows 7.

Misterfish

 

[nanscombe]

I use a Mac and use Handbrake, which is also available in a Windows version ... And it's free.

I use it to convert AVIs to mp4s, to play through an Apple TV, and also to rip DVDs.

Easy to use:
Pick a source
Pick a destination
Hit the "Start" button and leave it to it.

Did I mention it was free :wink:

Possibly worth a look.

However, It doesn't support editing though, so you couldn't use it to make the adverts disappear.

ETA:
For editing out the adverts etc how about looking at Windows Movie Maker. I haven't used it, but it appears to be free.

 

[knappers]

Another vote for Handbrake here. Excellent. Easy to use. Good forums for settings etc.
Have been using it to rip DVD and HD films to mkv files for my Home Server for a couple of years.
I used to play them back on a Popcorn Hour, but now use PS3 media server to a PS3.

Si.

 

[Alf]

Yet another vote for Handbrake.

 

[xy mosian]

I have not seen Handbrake before, must look into it. Does it allow editing?
If not then take a look at Avidemux http://avidemux.sourceforge.net/ which is a program I have used successfully many times.

xy

 

[Pvt_Ryan]

i use virtualdub http://www.virtualdub.org/

or
http://www.autogk.me.uk/index.php

 

[misterfish]

Thanks. I'll start with Handbrake and then try the others as well. But if there are any other suggestions I'm happy to try them all - the more the merrier.

Misterfish

 

[nanscombe]

As I said previously, Handbrake will happily re-encode video from one format to another but will not allow you to chop bits out, like adverts.

As long as that's all you want to do, it'll be fine.

If not, you would need something else as well.