Why Convert a DVD to DivX or XviD?

[gonwk]

Hi folks,

I am new to this DivX or XviD thingy ... anyway, I have few Questions ...

Q1: Why would I convert my DVD into a DivX or XviD format?

Q2: Is XviD or DivX qulaity AS GOOD AS the standard DVD Format?

Q3: Can you playback a DivX format on a home DVD palyer?

Q4: Can you just save all your DivX files on a hard-drive and play them back through you Home TV? If so, how?

Q5: If the answer to Q4 is YES then why would anyone waste their time backing up their DVDs into back-up DVD ... which will get scratched anyway ... why not just Archive them on external Hard Drives?

Thanks,
G!

[celtic_druid]

1. If you don't know, then I guess, you wouldn't.

2. Both should be capable of achieving DVD quality at a lower filesize. Note compressing a DVD and then comparing the results to the DVD is not a fair comparison. You need the source that the DVD was compressed from.

3. If it is DivX certified and the divx file conforms to that the profile(s) that the player is certified for, then yes. If the player isn't certified, then they still might work. Can't be just a regular DVD player though.

4. Sure. TV out. Network enabled player, XBox, etc.

5. Doesn't suit everyone. Why do some people drive automatic cars despite the fact that manuals are better?

[gonwk]

Hi Celtic,

Thanks for taking the time to write back ... your answers helped me to decide which way to jump.

G!