What bitrate and format for editing old video footage

I am importing and upscaling old HI8 camcorder footage, using Topaz Video AI to upscale. I will then edit in Final Cut Pro. I am confused by all the output options in the Topaz app. Given the less than ideal quality of Hi8 video, even upscaled to HD, should I output ProRes or ProRes LT or H.265? What bitrate is suitable to retain quality?

Want the best quality for the material, but not overkill such that the file size is enormous for no noticeable reason, so some guidance would be appreciated. Most info I can find online pertains to streaming, which is not what I am doing with the file. Thanks.

Mac Studio (2022)

Posted on Apr 22, 2023 12:03 PM

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19 replies

Cartoonguy Author

Level 2

200 points

Apr 22, 2023 1:37 PM in response to Tom Wolsky

The video is being upscaled from SD PAL to 4:3 HD, so 1440 x 1080. Video gets de-interlaced, so the output frame rate for the 4:3 HD is 50fps.

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

153,001 points

Apr 23, 2023 1:33 PM in response to Cartoonguy

I agree the Studio shouldn’t have a problem with HEVC in most projects.

Tom Wolsky

Level 10

153,001 points

Apr 23, 2023 3:28 PM in response to Cartoonguy

That’s really very impressive. The clarity and sharpness that’s been brought out of that quite soft and muddy original is quite remarkable. It really does look like an original recording.

Cartoonguy Author

Level 2

200 points

Apr 28, 2023 5:38 PM in response to Cartoonguy

Looks like I accidentally did not post the two close up pics, so here they are, SD and HD. This shows that the HD output does provide a sharper image.

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What bitrate and format for editing old video footage