So, I have some...non-commercial DVDs with 5.1 audio tracks...

I need to know how/if I can use Handbrake to convert these discs to a file that will let me keep that surround track. So far every time I've done it it results in 2 channel audio, and that sucks. I've had the audio track set to auto, and I've specified the track I want. It always results in 2 channels.

To be honest, Handbrake isn't the greatest program ever, particularly when it comes to an intuitive interface, though maybe that's just the Windows version.

You should be able to create an MKV with an AC3 stream in it. I'm firing it up right now to look at the UI again...

Handbrake can do MKV?
Oh wow, it can! Neat! I didn't see that earlier. I'll give that a try, thanks.

Yup, it can do mp4 and MKV containers. I prefer mkv myself because you can toss a ton of stuff into them quite easily. I also use other tools like mkvtoolnix from time to time - try some of these other ones and you'll no longer be complaining about the Handbrake UI.

So, if your source has an AC3, you will select AC3 Passthrough. If it has DTS, you may be screwed with the Handbrake UI. Even if the underlying encoders can handle it. You can try one of the other options and then set the mixdown to 6 channel discrete.

Fortunately most of what I've tried has AC3 and I've been selecting that.

One thing I've been experiencing when playing the resulting files back is that some of them - not all - will have a slight stutter in the video every few seconds. I don't know what causes it, and it might just be the device I'm playing them back on (the WDTV Live), but it's noticeable. I don't think I see it on my computer, so that could be all it is...

Sorry, I just brought in a different source and noticed that Handbrake does indeed also support DTS passthrough.

What it doesn't do is let you load in external audio. Which is something I need to do for some of the DVDs I'm converting - adding an additional language. I suppose I'll remux afterwards with something else.

Regarding the stutter... Check your framerate. Make sure it is set to "same as source." The stutter could be bad frame rate conversion.

I've definitely had it on "same as source" every time.

My other suggestion then is to find out what the correct frame rate is and specify it manually.

Wow, they're making porn with 5.1 surround sound now? I can't even fathom the mic'ing arrangement...

Unless they do it all with foley. Ew.

No...he said non-commercial.

tanstaafl.

Amateur porn then?