Convert AVCHD for Editing: 4Media AVCHD Converter Workflow Guide

How to Use 4Media AVCHD Converter to Convert MTS/M2TS FilesAVCHD (Advanced Video Coding High Definition) files often come from consumer HD camcorders and appear with the MTS or M2TS extension. These files store high-quality video but can be large, device-unfriendly, or incompatible with many editing programs and players. 4Media AVCHD Converter is a tool designed to convert MTS/M2TS clips into common formats (MP4, AVI, MOV, etc.), preserve quality, and streamline playback or editing. This guide walks you through preparation, conversion steps, settings that matter, batch processing, editing features, troubleshooting, and tips for best results.

Before you start: what you need and preparation

• System requirements: Make sure your PC meets the software’s minimum requirements (modern Windows version, enough RAM and disk space).
• Files: Copy MTS/M2TS files from your camcorder to a local drive. Converting from an external drive or camera can be slower and risk disconnections.
• Backup: Keep an original backup of your MTS/M2TS files in case you need to re-convert with different settings.
• Install: Download and install 4Media AVCHD Converter from a trusted source and open the program.

Step-by-step conversion process

1. Launch 4Media AVCHD Converter.
2. Add files: Click “Add File(s)” or drag-and-drop your MTS/M2TS files into the program window. The file list will display clip names, durations, and source formats.
3. Choose output profile: From the Profile or Output Format dropdown, select the desired format (for example, MP4 (H.264/AAC) for wide compatibility, MOV for QuickTime, or AVI for legacy players).
4. Set output folder: Specify where converted files will be saved. Make sure there’s enough disk space.
5. Adjust settings (optional but recommended):
   • Video codec: H.264/HEVC for good compression/quality balance (H.264 is safest for compatibility).
   • Resolution: Keep original resolution (1080p) to preserve quality unless you need smaller files (choose 720p or lower).
   • Bitrate: Higher bitrate = better quality but larger files. Use a constant bitrate (CBR) or variable bitrate (VBR) depending on needs; aim for 8–12 Mbps for 1080p H.264 if preserving quality.
   • Frame rate: Keep the source frame rate (usually 24/25/30 fps) to avoid judder.
   • Audio: Use AAC at 128–192 kbps for good audio quality and compatibility.
6. Optional edits: Use built-in tools to trim unwanted sections, crop black bars, adjust brightness/contrast, or add simple effects.
7. Batch settings: If converting multiple files to the same format, select them all and apply one profile/settings to speed the process.
8. Start conversion: Click the “Convert” button. Monitor progress in the status bar. Conversion time depends on file size, chosen settings, and CPU/GPU acceleration.
9. Verify output: Play converted files in your target player or import them into your editor to confirm quality and compatibility.

Using batch conversion efficiently

• Select all files you want to convert, choose one output profile, then apply it to every selected item to run a single batch job.
• If different clips need different formats (e.g., some for editing, some for mobile), group them by target format and run separate batches.
• Use episode/clip naming or output filename templates to keep converted files organized.

Editing and trimming within 4Media AVCHD Converter

• Trim: Set in/out points to remove pre-roll/post-roll or bad takes. This reduces conversion time and file size.
• Crop: Remove black bars or unwanted edges; preview to ensure safe areas aren’t cut.
• Merge: Combine multiple clips into a single output file when needed (useful for continuous playback).
• Preview: Always preview edits before final conversion.

Best settings for different goals

• Maximum compatibility (web, players, mobile): MP4 (H.264 + AAC), keep resolution or downscale to 720p, bitrate 4–8 Mbps for 1080p → lower for 720p.
• Best quality for editing: Use a high-bitrate MP4 or an editing-friendly intermediate codec (ProRes, DNxHD) if available — otherwise keep original resolution, high bitrate, and frame rate.
• Small file size for sharing: MP4 with H.264, reduce resolution and bitrate, enable two-pass VBR for better quality at low sizes.
• Archival quality: Keep original MTS/M2TS or convert to a lossless/intermediate codec; store backups.

Troubleshooting common problems

• Playback issues after conversion: Ensure you selected a compatible codec/container (MP4 + H.264/AAC is almost always safe). Install codecs or use VLC for wide format support.
• Audio-video sync drift: Make sure frame rate and audio sample rate match the source. Re-convert with “use source” options for frame rate/sample rate if available.
• Slow conversion: Enable hardware acceleration (if the software and your GPU support it), close other CPU-heavy apps, convert in batches overnight.
• Crashes or failures: Update the software to the latest version, update your GPU drivers, and re-import the source files from the camera’s folder on your drive.

Tips and best practices

• Preserve originals until you confirm converted files meet quality needs.
• Test one short clip with your chosen settings before converting large batches.
• Use meaningful output filenames and folder organization for long projects.
• Keep software updated for codec improvements and bug fixes.
• Consider intermediate codecs only when heavy color grading or advanced editing is required.

Quick checklist before converting

• Files copied locally ✔
• Backup originals ✔
• Output format selected ✔
• Resolution/frame rate set to match source (unless intentionally downscaling) ✔
• Audio settings checked ✔
• Hardware acceleration enabled if available ✔

Using 4Media AVCHD Converter as described will let you turn camcorder MTS/M2TS footage into widely usable video files while preserving quality and controlling file size.