Topaz Video AI (Version 4.0) | Is it worth the upgrade?

Introduction

This is an exciting time for the channel with the release of the new Topaz Video AI software, version 4.0. As a frequent user of this software, I find it extremely powerful. In this article, we'll go over all the details, new improvements, preferences, models, and various settings of the software.

Overview of Topaz Video AI 4.0

The software feels more polished and offers several new features like dual model selection and improved slow-motion capabilities. Moreover, it performs de-interlacing and stabilization with better reliability. Users can expect enhanced quality outputs that closely resemble native high-definition content even when starting with lower resolution videos.

Preferences

Default Settings

Preview Mode: Side by side
Preview Scale: Fit
Processing Speed Display: Frames per second (fps)
Time Display: Time code
Default Preset: Upscale to HD

Other Settings

GPU Selection: 3060 for reliability
Processes: 1 at a time
Export Format: MKV with h.265 encoding and constant bit rate of 7.5 Mbps
Audio Handling: Copy original audio format

Model Comparison

Available Models

Proteus
Artemis: High, Medium, Low Quality
Iris
NYX

Evaluation

High-Quality Footage: Models like Artemis High Quality consistently provide good results, offering enhanced sharpness while maintaining realism.
Medium-Quality Footage: Artemis and Iris are recommended. The models manage to clean up noise without making the footage look unrealistic.
Low-Quality Footage: Improvements are less dramatic. Emphasis on detailed recovery may introduce unrealistic smoothness.

Practical Applications

Slow Motion

Version 4.0 significantly improves its slow-motion capabilities, making even 4X slow motions incredibly smooth compared to previous iterations. However, the quality of the slow-motion rendering depends heavily on the selected scene.

De-interlacing

The built-in de-interlacing features are serviceable, but external tools like Handbrake are recommended for superior results.

Upscaling Old Videos

Applying Topaz Video AI to older videos can lead to notable improvements, though starting with higher-quality inputs will yield the best results.

Performance Metrics

Conducting benchmarks based on GPU selection indicates notable differences in processing speeds across various models and settings. Utilizing a single powerful GPU like the RTX 3060 allows efficient processing times while maintaining acceptable quality.

Conclusion

Topaz Video AI 4.0 is a robust tool for video enhancement, offering impressive new features and improvements. The software's ability to efficiently handle various resolutions and improve visual quality makes it a valuable asset for content creators looking to upscale and enhance their video libraries.

Keywords

Topaz Video AI
Video enhancement
Slow motion
De-interlacing
Upscaling
GPU selection
Preferences
Artemis, Iris, NYX
Processing speed

FAQ

Q1: What new features has Topaz Video AI 4.0 introduced? A1: Version 4.0 includes dual model selection, improved slow-motion capabilities, and better performance for de-interlacing and stabilization.

Q2: Which GPU works best for Topaz Video AI 4.0? A2: The RTX 3060 is recommended for reliable performance and efficient processing times.

Q3: What export settings are optimal for maintaining audio quality? A3: "Copy" audio in the export settings to maintain original audio format without degradation.

Q4: Is it better to use Handbrake for de-interlacing before using Topaz Video AI? A4: Yes, Handbrake generally provides superior de-interlacing results compared to the built-in features of Topaz Video AI.

Q5: Which model is recommended for high-quality footage enhancement? A5: Artemis High Quality is generally the most recommended model for enhancing high-quality footage due to its balance of detail enhancement and realism.

Q6: Can Topaz Video AI improve very low-quality footage? A6: Results for very low-quality footage are limited. While improvements can be seen, the footage may still lack clarity and realism.