How To: Convert DVD (.vob files) to FCP X - Friendly Files

Hello - thanks in advance for any light shed on this question. I'm working on a project from a backup footage done for me erroneously in a DVD format. I've used AVS Video Converter and have high-quality .vob files from the DVD that can be played using VLS, etc. However, I need to get these converted for high quality edit in FCP. My attempt at MOV was too compressed and low quality.

I also tried using FREE MPEG Streamclip and purchased the required MPEG 2 Playback Component from the Apple Store today to make Streamclip work (this strategy from online recommendations) and found out the Playback Component isn't compatible with my OS (latest Mountain Lion). This MPEG Streamclip program, when compatible, is apparently able to convert .vob to pro res files.

Anyway - in case anyone might've recommended that route - no go for me and current system config.

I appreciate any input / recommendations for getting those .vob's converted for high quality edit in FCP

Thanks,
Sean

First, be sure you downloaded the beta version of MPEG Streamclip (1.9.3b8) because it is compatible with Mountain Lion. The 1.9.2 version is very old.

Second, follow this guide to make the QuickTimeMPEG2 component work with MPEG Streamclip. It worked for me > www.firehazardpromotions.com/?p=34

Now, if MPEG Streamclip is working and the Quicktime MPEG2 component is correctly installed, open the DVD with MPEG Streamclip an export the video using Apple ProRes 422 codec, and load the exported file to FCPx.

Good luck!

If streamclip doesn't work,myou alway can use Handbrake. It outputs only to x.264 or ffmpeg, but you don't have the hassle with the QT mpeg module.

Thanks to both of you for the input. I ended up trying both. Forgot to mention the DVD was in PAL format so Handbrake created a file that I would've had to transform it up a bit to match other standard footage. Opted not to since that would've created some extra loss.

The MPEG Streamclip was an attempt I almost pulled off - just short of messing with library files. Would like to get that going in the future with some more time and patience. Since I don't do my own dental work either, I didn't want to create another problem there.

Ultimately, I tested several other programs to convert including AVS, which I already had, but couldn't get a decent conversion after many configs. Wondershare, has a program called Video Converter for Mac. At $29.00 US, it was about $29 more than I wanted to spend, but it worked very well with a FCPX preset for MP4/h.264. If anyone runs into a similar situation to mine, that may be a viable solution.

Again - thanks,
sp

All them 29.00 dollar programs are nothing else but front ends to ffmpeg. Then why not try the original?
www.ffmpegx.com/

Fair Question -

As was the case with MPEG2 Streamclip, there are issues with ffmpeg and Mountain Lion Compatibility. From my research and input from others, there are technical / library workaround, but I don't have the time or patience with the current schedule to do that with confidence.

sp

That's weird, MPEG Streamclip is very straight forward (if you know the technical information you need), but I'm glad you solve your problem!