Server Version#: 1.25.2.5319
Player Version#: 5.29.1
The media is 1080p HEVC 2 Mbps 23.976 fps mp4, encoded with Handbrake.
PS5 seems to think that it is using a Direct Play http protocol, however, the Plex Server says it is transcoding from HEVC to H264.
Despite this, playback quality is pristine, smooth, and there is zero CPU load on the server; suggesting that the video is not being transcoded.
Sometimes the Plex Server will either Direct Play, Direct Stream, or transcode the same HEVC file depending on whether it’s in a good mood or not. Very inconsistent.
I’ve also noticed that if the PS5 decides to use Direct Play protocol dash, then it switches to Direct Stream instead, and this is reflected on the Plex Server.
This raises a few questions:
Why does the server think it’s transcoding when it isn’t?
Why do some files encoded with the same settings at higher bit rates (like 5 Mbps) buffer / not play at all?
Why does the PS5 say protocol http for some HEVC files and protocol dash for others.
It would be good to know the preferred HEVC encoder settings and compatible advanced codec options to use so that videos can simply work. Or, fix PS5 HEVC Plex compatibility once and for all.
Thanks in advance.
Much 
