Initial Impressions of TMPGenc Video Mastering Works 5
 

I just purchased TMPGEnc Video Mastering Works 5 for $110 ( after ordering a backup disc ) and my initial impressions are full of disappointment. I haven't tested out the quality and in-depth features in regards to encoding, mostly because it is geared towards HD, but it just seems clunky to me. The interface reminds of the over-abuse of Bevel and Glow in Photoshop. There is also no option ( that I can find ) to author a DVD - only convert. The online verification of the license each time you run it is annoying as well. Plus if you read the license agreement they take no responsibility if their verification server goes down or they decide to discontinue the product license verification service and "move on" without warning and you are unable to execute the program even after you have paid for it.

DON'T GET ME WRONG - this is just an initial impression. I have yet to work with it in depth. But as of now, its just flat-out fugly.

I think they should have kept with the TMPGenc 2.5 interface and incorporated the newer features. Much cleaner.

I'll continue experimenting with it over the next couple of months and update this thread. But I just wanted to warn people who hate "clunky" software to think twice before they drop 100 bills on this instead of putting it towards their mortgage.

I may have to get a review copy.

This is why I did not like TMPGEnc Xpress 3 or 4. Seemed fairly pointless, like a hackjob merger of TDA (now Authoring Works) and the old TMPGEnc Plus encoder. An attempt to create an all-in-one product for lazy video-making consumers. The output generally left something to be desired.

As much as we avoid mentioning the underground communities that provide "free" software that should be paid, this is one of the few where I can think of a legitimate use of those shady sources. (Assuming the hacks, cracks, or keygens are not filled with malware, which is often the case.) For example, most of my encoding systems are fully offline for privacy.

Oh, I don't know .... sounds like two extremes there. TMPGEnc Plus had room for improvement, while the new one is probably closer to a Fisher-Price toy laptop interface. One is too hard for an average person, and one is designed for lazy people that want a big "go" button.

Please do. :thumb: