Transcoding Time

[Tom Walsh]

I've just finished a project shot on RED One at 2:1 2K and had a few issues with workflow, the main issue being the unbelievable amount of time it takes to transcode R3D files to ProRes via Log and Transfer OR REDrushes. It took my iMac dual core about 20 hours in transcode about 3 hrs 40 mins worth of footage.

Once in ProRes it's easy to edit and then reconform to R3D and then send to Color for grading but I'm just wondering if anyone has a few ideas about the best way to minimise the time to get the footage into the machine for the offline edit.

I found that setting the timeline Playback Quality to Low and using the Native RED import option was good but once you go to 4K files it grinds to a halt even on that setting. Just wondered if there was a way to transcode more quickly or get the best out of your system. I can't afford an 8 core quite yet!

Cheers,
Tom

 

[Sanjin Jukic]

Here is one of the examples that RR card needed desperately and also means MacPro or PC desktop...

 

[Mark Pugh]

I'm just wondering if anyone has a few ideas about the best way to minimise the time to get the footage into the machine for the offline edit.

Simple. Do a lower-quality debayer, and smaller size Prores files. try 1/4 debayer, and 720P. Should be fine for offlining. There's no way that should take as long to transcode as the time you're quoting. It should easily be done overnight.