The quickest way to convert DVDs to Ots files is to leave the video file unaltered, once ripped to your hard drive as VOB files. Using Ots Studio, convert your VOB files to Ots files. Below are the steps to follow...
Note: Playing and manipulating DVD (SD) quality video requires substantial computing power. We suggest using the recommended hardware for DVD quality video playback. If your computer doesn't meet the recommended requirements, we suggest using optimized video files.
1. Install and setup the AC3 Filter.
VOB files (from DVD) may use an AC3 audio stream, which require a DirectShow filter on your system. A free AC3 filter can be found here. Simply install the AC3 filter on your system, and Ots Studio will convert the AC3 audio stream to MP3 during the conversion process.
Download the AC3 Filter installation file from here. Run the installation file.
Launch the configuration dialog by going to Start->Programs->AC3Filter->AC3Filter Config
Under the Main tab, change the Output/Sample format to PCM Float. Under DRC make sure Enabled is unchecked, or Uncheck the Use DRC checkbox (in older versions).
Under the Mixer tab, uncheck Auto gain control.
Output format in both of these tabs should be at 2/0 - stereo.
2. Rip your DVD music videos to your hard drive as VOB files.
Refer to the Preparing your Music Video collection section.
3. Convert your VOB files to Ots files using Ots Studio.
To convert your existing music video library to Ots files, use the Batch Conversion Tool in Ots Studio.
Note: See the Ots Studio documentation for more information on using the Batch Conversion Tool.
If you have a large music video library, the conversion process may take some time, so make sure you don't leave it until just before a gig. We suggest converting a few music video files to begin with, so that you can become familiar with the process.
Once you have converted your videos to Ots files, it is highly recommended that you check your files for audio trimming. Some music videos have non-musical intros and outros. In most cases, you wouldn't want to hear or see these when performing. Using the ACI (Audio Control Info) chunk in each item, you can edit the intro and outro points so that the non-musical elements are not heard. Consult the Ots Studio documentation for more on ACI chunks.
Note: Editing the intro and outro points is a non-destructive process, and you can go back at any stage.
Once you have a collection of video Ots files, you can import them into OtsAV. To play your music videos, continue to the next topic in this tutorial.
Proceed to next topic: Playing Videos