AVI Dub: chop makes file bigger?

[Zingaro]

Hi guys,

I've seen tutorials all over the net about how to use VirtualDub using Direct Stream Copy to cut an AVI into a smaller file. However, when I try to cut a 704 MB file down to 700 MB (and calculate the number of frames required to cut), I end up with a 708 MB file!

I am using Direct Stream Copy on both Video and Audio. What am I doing wrong? What other settings can I use to ensure a size of under 700 MB?

Thanks,
The Amorphous Zingaro

[Erci]

You can't cut it to get one smaller file if you don't cut of the end credits. If you want to get it smaller this is the way to go if you don't want to reencode.

//Erci

[khp]

Your avi file was probably created using the 'old' avi format, by default virutaldub creates an OpenDML avi. OpenDML has slightly more structural overhead.

Try saving as 'old format avi' in virtualdub when you chop.

[khp]

One other thing, you can't calculate the cut point simply by frame numbers, because divx uses variable bitrates.

For precise cutting I recommend using nandub, which has a 'goto last keyframe before xxx MB (ctrl+shift+j) feature, this can be used to find the optimal cutting point.