Before Transcoding a sequence, it is recommended that you carry out a small test of the process to familiarize yourself with additional options and results. These additional options include, but are not limited to, Debayer settings (found in the Media Creation settings) for RED footage, which also need to be configured. The steps that follow focus on only one specific result. Ideally, you would be able to perform your small-scale test prior to receiving the mission-critical files and prior to the intensity of working under a deadline.
Some formats cannot be Consolidated (copied) using their original codec, and Media Composer will alert you that they will also need to have their codec (also known as resolution) changed during the copy process. This is referred to as Transcoding.
Transcoding a sequence simply means that you'll be making copies of only the portions of the media files that are being referred to by your sequence. (Essentially, Media Composer will take each shot used in the sequence and make a brand new Master Clip for it.) Further, as it generates new media files, it will also be changing the media files' codec.
Unlike Consolidating, Transcoding does not offer the option to delete the original media files after it has completed the Transcoding process.
Before Transcoding a sequence, it is a very wise idea to first make a backup copy and place it in its own well-labeled bin (for example, My Movie Before Transcode). This extra version protects you in case you make an error, and will help to keep your project organized for future reference.
The steps to Transcode an AMA linked sequence are as follows:
First, review the information presented earlier in this chapter, in the Transcoding AMA Master Clips before beginning to edit recipe.
In the Project Window select the Format tab.
Select the Project Type and Aspect Ratio.
Important note from Avid Technology:
New clips created through the Transcode operation are in the project format. When you transcode a clip across formats, for example if you transcode a 16:9 clip in a 4:3 project, the Reformat bin setting determines how the clip is conformed to the new format.
Clip menu | Consolidate/Transcode (you may also right-click on the sequence).
In the top left of the Consolidate/Transcode window, select Transcode.
In the Video/Data region of the window, select the drive you want the copied files to be stored.
In the Handle Length entry box, enter the number of frames you want added to the head and tail of each new Master Clip.
Be sure to select the Create new sequence check box. Even though I suggested earlier that you make a backup copy manually prior to the Transcode process, this provides an additional layer of protection.
Click on the Transcode button at the bottom of the window.
The Transcode process begins.
On completion of the process you will have the following:
Master Clips that have the extension
.newadded to them. The duration of each clip will be whatever it is in the sequence plus the added duration of the handles.A new sequence with the addition of
.Transcodedat the end. This sequence is linked to the.newclips.Your original sequence will remain linked to the original Master Clips that you edited from.