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High Definition Review and Approval with Apple TV

Encoding Specifications

The specs for Apple TV are very straight-forward (especially if you’re used to making a podcast.  The files use standard MPEG-4 files with the H264 codec. The determining factor for playback size is the frame rate of the original file.

Standard Definition

640x480, 30fps > 640x480, 30fps, @3mbps

High Definition 24 fps

1280x720 24fps > 1280x720, 24fps @5mbps*

1920x1080, 24fps > 1280x720, 24fps @5mbps*

High Definition 30 fps

1280x720, 30fps > 960x540, 30fps @4mbps*

1920x1080, 30fps > 960x540, 30fps @4mbps*

Encoding Solutions

There are LOTS of ways to make file for Apple TV. You’ve got free solutions and paid solution… the distinguishing factor is generally speed.

image courtesy Elgato

• Apple – Apple has woven support for Apple TV encoding throughout their software.  You can use QuickTime Pro, iTunes, Compressor, and even iMovie to generate a file.
• Elgato Turbo.264 HD – This USB dongle is priced at $149 and is worth every penny. It allows for batch processing and rapidly accelerates the encoding.  The dongle does much more than Apple TV compressions (we have four in our studios alone).
• mDialog mLoader – This service provide provides a free hosting plan to try out, most pros can get by with the $49 a year option for client screeners.  Upload your HD video using their mLoader software and it converts it to an Apple TV, web, and mobile formats.  Oh, you can also use their service to narrowcast videos direct to your client’s iPhone and iPod touch devices.  We’ve used this service for sometime at my shop and its rock solid. The mLoader can also use the Turbo.264 HD to accelerate its encoding.
• Adobe Media Encoder – On a PC or prefer Creative Suite?  The Adobe Media Encoder has handy presets for Apple TV output as well.

The Bottom Line

image courtesy Apple

The Apple TV is a poorly understood device with a lot of potential.  I’d love to see it open up a bit more to allow direct delivery of video, but it’s still a great value and relatively easy to use. It’s an absolute no-brainer to have one in every conference room for video production companies, PR firms, and as agencies.  You’ll have to do a little work to train your clients (it’s about as hard as syncing an iPod).  But the cost and time-savings are well worth it.  HD delivery powered by the Net with no wasted time authoring shiny discs or dollars spent on express delivery.  I highly encourage you to check it out.

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