JPEG 2000 Codec

Is the JPEG 2000 codec valid for use? I see that it offers full 32 bit depth -hence it would offer an alpha channel on a full 1920x1080 HD rendering. I have done a few tests using this codec out a .mov file and the file size seems to be nice, and it truley does offer the 4 channels. (RGBA) - I am using Sony Vegas 8 in this process. - Also, if this is acceptable, do you recommend to leave the chroma-key background or send it out to black (alpha)?

I believe that this codec actually puts out smaller files than if using "animation".

Feedback anyone? Thanks in advance.

Sorry to be a newb, but can you explain the alpha channel. I have seen videos labeled 'with alpha matte', and then they have the video, followed by the video in black and white. I know it is to replace the background, but what would RGBA give you?

Vader,

The problem with JPEG 2000 is that it's a lossy codec, which means that some of the data is lost during compression.

P5 accepts the PNG codec which is lossless, supports alpha (and millions of colors) and does a MUCH better job of compression than the Animation codec. I would highly recommend it.

It would basically have it all contained in one file or sequence as opposed to having to attach a matte. You can then separate it out as a mask or alpha channel in any good NLE. When you shoot, typically the camera records in 32 bit mode. Each channel gets 8 bits, so red, green and blue eat the first 24 bits and alpha the last 8 bits. The problem when rendering regular jpg A yada yada is that it only outputs the 24 bits and loses the alpha. Hence you need to go to "animation" or as what I am asking here JPEG 2000 and set the compressed depth to 32 bpp color as opposed to just 24 bpp color. It is a bit confusing and I have been futzing with this stuff for a few months now trying to get a "clean" way to do it. It is primarily used in chroma key work. Hope that helps. :)

PNG are huge file size in 1920x1080 HD. I just saved the same clip in PNG and Motion J. The PNG was 2.4GB and the Motion J was 620Mb. Don't see PNG as a good option at this time for HD clips.

There has got to be a better way. I just don't understand why the whole world is so stuck on the .mov wrapper. There is a codec in the avi world called lagarith and it does a great job on 32 bit (RGBA).

PNG are still smaller than Animation and I am dubious about "lossy" codecs. Evan at 10% or less, I still occasionally "see" differences.

Vader, it's a matter of reaching the greatest number of customers and to some degree, stigma. AVI has a cloudier reputation than MOV and so far EVERY major editing app supports MOV. Apple did a good job there in their marketing.

It supports mov if you have the quicktime plugin, which is a mess all in it's own. I hate QT!!!!!

I'm not a fan of QT either, but I use what I gotta. :)