Server Version#: 1.22.0.4163
Player Version#: 1.29.1.1974-a65b3ef3
Hello,
I have a quick question on how the plex transcoder works internally. Because some behaviors are not working as I expected it.
In my library I have content in 4K HEVC with a relatively low bitrate (for example a 7Mbps file)
But when I want to transcode it to a lower resolution because my device cannot read 4K HEVC (but is able to play 1080p HEVC without stuttering) I’m facing an unexpected behavior of the transcoder.
I’d expect all options labeled Convert to 1080p HD to first Convert the movie to 1080p if it’s in a higher resolution, and then verify the bitrate to downgrade if necessary.
But currently the check is made only on the bitrate. So for a 7Mbps file if I try to Convert to 1080p HD (High) nothing is done. Because that setting bitrate is 20Mbps and my file is 7Mbps.
Even though the size is not right.
So to have a transcoding happening i need to go as low as Convert to 720p HD (High) because it’s 4Mbps. But i’m forced to watch in 720p and losing the 1080p.
Am I thinking this wrong ? What solution can I put in place to watch content in 1080p with a low bitrate ?
Careful, or you’ll be labelled a
Bit Rate Starving Upstart
Like me (7Mbps is about 5 and half more than I need).
Plex thinks 720p at 4Mbps is cool.
I think 720p at 1.2Mbps is cool enough.
Plex thinks 1080p needs to be at least 8Mbps
I think that’s about 3X too much.
Plex doesn’t think like we do.
Plex also thinks in set selections Plex has chosen - user defined - right out.
The only way I’ve found to deal with it is to make sure everything Direct Plays - by making another Version if necessary - so as not to engage the transcoder at all. It’s thinking and mine go two different directions.
But Plex thinks my device can play 4K HEVC (because i can play HEVC) so it tries to send me the file in 4K HEVC but then I get a lot of stuttering (so it’s already direct playing). Then my issue appears when i want to lower the resolution.
