MP4 files from FCP X & Compressor 4

When it comes to sharing media files across different platforms, having a universally accepted file format is vital. As someone who works with both Windows PCs and Apple Macs to share wedding and event videos, sticking to one format that is compatible across these platforms is crucial. This is where MP4 format shines, offering seamless compatibility and ease of sharing without much trouble.

Windows and Mac systems have their respective format preferences—WMV for Windows Media Video and MOV for Mac's QuickTime. While players like VLC can handle various formats, it is often still better to ensure your files are natively compatible with the most commonly used devices. Hence, converting video files to MP4 is recommended.

In this article, we will explore how to generate MP4 files using Final Cut Pro X (FCP X) and Compressor 4.

Generating MP4 Files in Final Cut Pro X

Let's start with FCP X. After loading your video file in FCP X, follow these steps:

Go to the Share Menu: Navigate to the share menu, where you will find multiple export options.
Select Master File: Although there are several ways to create an MP4 file, "Master File" typically offers high-quality export settings.
Adjust Settings:
- Choose "Video and Audio."
- For the codec, select H.264.
- This default setting generates a QuickTime MOV file which is not what you want.
Switch Format to Computer: This will ensure the file is saved as an MP4 format.
Additional Settings:
- The data rate typically defaults to around 20 megabits per second.
- Select the resolution—usually 720p, 1080p, or, in some cases, 4K.
- For video codec, you have the choice between faster encoding or better quality. Faster encoding will complete quickly but sacrifice some quality. Better quality will take longer but result in a smaller, higher-quality file.

Generating MP4 Files in Compressor 4

Compressor 4 offers more control over your exported files and is ideal for batch processing or more customization:

Import the File into Compressor: Load your video file into Compressor.
QuickTime Export Components:
- Choose "QuickTime Export Components."
- Select MP4 from the dropdown menu.
- Configure settings including the data rate and resolution.
Creating a Custom Export:
- Alternatively, select "New Settings."
- Choose "QuickTime Movie."
- Change the default codec to MP4.
- Adjust additional settings, such as audio and video bitrate, to fine-tune your output.

Using these methods ensures your video files are readily accessible and compatible across different platforms without sacrificing quality.

Keywords

MP4 format
Windows Media Video (WMV)
QuickTime (MOV)
Final Cut Pro X (FCP X)
Compressor 4
H.264
Video encoding
Export settings
Data rate
Batch processing

FAQ

1. Why should I use MP4 format for video sharing? MP4 is universally compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, making it easier to share files without encountering format compatibility issues.

2. What is the difference between faster encoding and better quality in FCP X? Faster encoding completes the rendering process quicker but results in a larger file with lower quality. Better quality takes longer but produces a smaller file with higher quality.

3. How do I adjust settings in Compressor 4? After importing your file to Compressor 4, you can select either "QuickTime Export Components" or "New Settings" to configure and adjust the specific settings for your MP4 output.

4. What data rate should I choose for my MP4 file? Typically, a data rate of around 20,000 kilobits per second (20 megabits per second) is used for 1080p video to balance quality and file size.

5. Can I export 4K video in FCP X and Compressor 4? Yes, but the original file must be in 4K resolution for this option to be available. If the source file is 1080p, the 4K option will be grayed out.