vc-1

What is involved in upgrading to the vc-1 codec? I am currently encoding in windows media encoder creating 1.5Mbps wmv files. I would like to start using the vc-1 codec.

Is there a cost for this? Is it a matter of just downloading the codec? what is affected?

When you pick your video codec, pick “Windows Media Video 9 Advanced Profile”

You’ll need Windows Media Player 11 installed (or at least the VC-1 codec). (WMP11 has VC-1; it’s also an automatic download from WMP 9 or 10 if you’re playing VC-1 contents and connected to the internet, or you can download this version here)

You can also try Microsoft Expression Encoder 3 (it’s the only part of the Expression suite that’s freeware). It’s the successor for Windows Media Encoder 9.
Requires .net 3.5 SP1

Side thought: I thought it was nice that it was able to import MOV, MP4, and 3GP files (requires QuickTime installed though).