Problem Importing MP4 files into FCE. How to convert videos and what format

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Problem Importing MP4 files into FCE. How to convert videos and what format

I was trying to import MP4 video files into Final Cut Express however i was unable to do so. i get the error. File error: 1 files recognized, 0 access denied, 1 unknown.

I am guessing i need to convert the MP4 file into another format. What format is best to convert to without losing any quality and will work in Final Cut Express? My MP4 files are shot at 60FPS 720 using the GO Pro HD Cameras.

MacBook Pro, Mac OS X (10.6.2)

Posted on Jan 15, 2010 8:43 AM

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Answer 1

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Jan 15, 2010 10:24 AM in response to kaniboi

Convert to QuickTime using the Apple Intermediate codec 1280x720 29.97fps with 48k uncompressed audio.

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Answer 2

kaniboi Author

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Jan 15, 2010 11:16 AM in response to Tom Wolsky

Hi Tom, thanks for the quick reply. I am using MPEG Streamclip and converted as you said to AIC 1280x720 29,97 fps with 48k uncompressed audio. i noticed my file size went from 75mb (original) to 189 mb (after conversion). is this correct? Also since we are changing the fps from 60 to 29.97 I am assuming we are doing so b\c FCE does not support 60fps? If not, is there a way to do this?

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Answer 3

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Jan 15, 2010 11:25 AM in response to kaniboi

Yes to all that.

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Answer 4

jkknyc

Level 1

40 points

Mar 12, 2010 1:29 PM in response to Tom Wolsky

I'm having the same issue trying to import some footage I ripped from a DVD a friend made for me. The footage is currently in MP4 format, but Final Cut Express gives me the same error message.

You recommend converting it to QuickTime format using the Apple Intermediate codec 1280x720 29.97fps with 48k uncompressed audio. Sorry for my technical ignorance, but would that be a .MOV file?

Since there's no longer a Pro version of QuickTime, what application can I use to convert the file to QuickTime using the codec you cite?

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Answer 5

Mar 12, 2010 1:37 PM in response to jkknyc

Yep, a .MOV container would be correct.

Snow Leopard should still have QuickTime 7 installed as well as Quicktime X, if I'm correct; it may not be on your Dock though.

But the freeware MPEG Streamclip can do the job too, and even let you set in and out points, etc.

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Answer 6

jkknyc

Level 1

40 points

Mar 12, 2010 1:43 PM in response to Geoff Kaiser

Thanks for your reply and your help; I'll try MPEG Streamclip.

When I updated to SnowLeopard, QuickTime 7 was replaced by 10. I've attempted to download and install 7 again, but the OS won't let me, telling me not just that a later version is already installed, but rather that I can't have version 7 because I have 10.

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Answer 7

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

152,809 points

Mar 12, 2010 1:46 PM in response to jkknyc

You don't need the QT7 player, but you have it. It's an additional install on the Snow Leopard install disc and may already be in your Utilities folder.

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