A codec is an algorithm for storing data. There are both video and audio codecs, and each one has advantages and disadvantages. Codecs have two parts, an encoder and a decoder. Normally, the encoder is built for effeciency (smallest filesize per quality), while the decoder is built for speed (fastest decompression).
Common video codecs are
- Divx 3.11 - The first commonly used MPEG-4 ASP codec, now outdated.
- Divx 5/6 - More recent versions of Divx, often used by Cappers, but rarely by fansubbers.
- Xvid - The most common codec used for fansubbing. Also a MPEG-4 ASP standard codec.
- x264 - A codec based on the MPEG-4 AVC standard, also known as H264. Currently the most efficient codec for compressing anime by a LOT. Starting to gain popularity in fansubbing.
- Huffyuv - A lossless? codec commonly used by encoders to prevent double encoding or to speed up reencodes?.
Common audio codecs are
- Lame - Arguably the best mp3 codec.
- Vorbis - An open source audio codec which is better than mp3.
- AC3 - This isn't a codec commonly used to encode with. It is usually used when using audio from a DVD without reencoding.
- Nero AAC - An implementation of the AAC? standard by Nero. Supports both HE AAC? and LC AAC?.
- 3gp reference AAC - Currently the best HE AAC? codec.
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