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Allows the ability to visualize and make modifications to the subpics (subtitles and/or button highlights in menus) directly inside VOB files with no need to demux and remux the subpic system

Allows the ability to visualize and make modifications to the subpics (subtitles and/or button highlights in menus) directly inside VOB files with no need to demux and remux the subpic system

Vote: (24 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Videohelp

Version: 1.52

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(24 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Videohelp

1.52

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Direct modification of the IFO CLUT
  • Zoom window for precise subtitle editing
  • Automatic selection of display modes for stream changes
  • Expanded OCR capabilities for better text accuracy
  • User preferences are saved and customizable through the .ini file

Cons

  • Interface might seem outdated to some users
  • Some learning curve for new users despite the comprehensive manual
  • Fixed bugs imply potential for other undiscovered issues

A Comprehensive Tool for Editing Subtitles in DVDs

Introduction

DVDSubEdit is a utility designed for those looking for a way to modify subtitles directly within DVD files. It enables users to easily edit the timing, position, and color of subtitle text, and also provides some more advanced features for those seeking a deep dive into subtitle editing. Let’s explore how DVDSubEdit stands out in the digital realm of video editing.

Functionality and Features

One of the most notable attributes of DVDSubEdit is its ability to directly modify the Internal Object Color Table (IFO CLUT) without the need for re-authoring the DVD. By clicking a pixel tile and then shift-clicking in the CLUT display, users can change colors of the subtitles, making them more readable against different backgrounds.

The addition of the zoom window is a thoughtful enhancement, providing a 1:1 scaling view that helps in finer editing and precise adjustments. It shows only the crucial part of the bitmap, which simplifies the process of subtitle editing.

DVDSubEdit has also addressed the needs of users who work with multiple streams by adding an automatic selection of display mode whenever the stream selection changes. For those who prefer more manual control, this feature can be toggled off in the .ini file.

The software further assists subtitle editing with an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature. This functionality enables users to see the OCR result on the original subtitle picture before making any changes, which can be particularly useful when using tools designed to remove text for the hearing impaired. Additionally, users can now opt for case-sensitive searches in OCR output, adding another layer of specificity to searches.

In terms of customization, DVDSubEdit offers the possibility to choose default text and background colors in AutoCLUT mode. This is helpful for standardizing the look across all subtitles without tedious manual adjustments.

The Preferences panel consolidates general settings, OCR setup, and Hearing-impaired tool setup, delineating different sections for easier access and control over various aspects of subtitle editing. Options include changing background colors and alerts for encountering closed captions, and the permission to load IFOs when loading .sup files, enhancing the overall user experience.

For text commonly tied together, such as 'fl,' 'ft,' and 'fi,' the updated OCR code can now detect such ligatures, thereby improving text recognition accuracy.

Performance Improvements and Bug Fixes

The developers have made significant strides in streamlining the performance of DVDSubEdit. The "Save all modifications" function has been upgraded to work for .sup files and now saves modifications across all subtitles pictures (subpics), not just the ones selected.

User preferences for border settings are now sustainably stored in the .ini file, which simplifies the process of re-using preferred settings. Several bugs have also been addressed, including problems with border issues in PAL movies, automatic recognition of hearing-impaired text, and subtitle bottom line detection.

User Experience

The interface of DVDSubEdit, while utilitarian, is designed with function in mind, allowing users to quickly access the powerful editing tools on offer. The built-in PDF user manual is a valuable resource for those unfamiliar with the software, providing guidance that is more or less up to date, and ensuring that users can quickly learn how to use the applications' various functions effectively.

Conclusion

DVDSubEdit stands as a robust tool for those looking to edit and customize their DVD subtitles. With its direct subtitle manipulation capabilities, OCR improvements, and attention to user preferences, it offers a powerful solution for DVD subtitle editing.

Pros

  • Direct modification of the IFO CLUT
  • Zoom window for precise subtitle editing
  • Automatic selection of display modes for stream changes
  • Expanded OCR capabilities for better text accuracy
  • User preferences are saved and customizable through the .ini file

Cons

  • Interface might seem outdated to some users
  • Some learning curve for new users despite the comprehensive manual
  • Fixed bugs imply potential for other undiscovered issues