Why AVI files for DVD burning?

[J187]

I'm just curious why most of the movie files downloaded here for DVDs are AVI? What makes AVI the choice method for movies? As opposed to like, ISO files or downloading the Vob, BUP and IFOs etc? Do you lose any quality with AVI? OH, and BTW, this is just an assumption I'm making based on what I've seen for downloads, is AVI really the choice movie file download for making DVDs? Thanks in advance.

Jason

[BSOD2600]

The groups release most movies using the AVI container encoded with the XviD codec because often a movie will fit onto one or two CDs. Other times, they are released in SVCD format, which is also another high quality compression codec which fits movies into two or three CDs.

The reason they often do not release the full DVD (Vob files) is that they weigh in between 5 - 7 GB. This is a lot of space and most people who are on broadband throughout the world would take too long to download. Also, this requires a lot more space for pubs to host.

[J187]

so, are these movies typically burned onto CDs and not DVDs? How drastic is the quality loss with the hgher compression? As opposed to a DVD you'd burn from a DVD. Thanks for the answer, I'm a lot more enlightened, I didn't release that those files took so much space.

[BSOD2600]

Compare the various codecs used for compression against their original DVD and draw your own conclusions: http://www.doom9.org/codec-comparisons.htm

Movies that are AVI and SVCD are designed to fit onto a CD. Some people convert them so they play on DVDs. Guides at www.dvdrhelp.com

[J187]

that guide was the info I wanted. I searched but could not find. THanks so much for everything.

J