Is 2-pass encoding still preferred if size is not an issue?

andy

If encoding in a single pass with a target quantitizer (let's say q = 4) yields an acceptable file size, is there any quality to be gained by doing a two-pass encode that also yielded the same file size?

i think 2-pass always gives a much better result

If you're going for the same file size a 1-pass Q4 gives you then yes, a 2-pass encoding for the same file size will probably give you a better encode. If you had used 1-pass Q2 then a 2-pass will not provide any improvement.

I think that if 2 encodes (1 at fixed Q, the other 2pass), results in the same quantizers (all 2, or 3 etc...), the only difference  saving them from being identical is the use of Curve compression options/Intra-frames tuning in 2nd pass.

So imho there's not that much difference in normal situations...

The 2pass gain is not visible on low quantizer (less than 2.5/2.6 of p-frame average q)

For my eyes, 1 pass constant q4 is better if you are happy with file size especially if you can use a custom quant matrix.. and sharp resizer. I like to use quant 2-4 2-4 2-4 (not 1-31) with sharp resize/nice custom quant matrix that compresses well using quot;target bitratequot; (instead of constant quant) and I always come under brate target and I like the quality vs 2 pass at same brate

sorry for off topic

@kururu: Dont you think people get eye cancer while reading your posts and being distracted by your signature?

@Sujao  LOL i was jsut about to post the exact same thing!!!  
Love the sig kururu made me laugh
Regards
cyph

haha, thanks for all the comments and replys guys.

my sig is from a popeye's commercial in korea. the girl is jang nara.