Convert anything, at global scale.
200+ formats and automation APIs that feels instant.
CONVERT
From
To
Drop files or choose a source
Upload multiple files at once, mix formats, and fine-tune every conversion with format-aware settings.
Max 2GB per file · Drag & drop ready · Mixed file types welcome
MPEG-2 at a glance
MPEG-2
MPEG-2 was developed as the successor to MPEG-1, scaling video quality from VHS-level to broadcast and studio levels. It underpinned the DVD-Video standard (1996) and digital broadcast systems worldwide (DVB, ATSC, ISDB).
ARI at a glance
ARI
Digital photography fragmented into many manufacturer-specific raw formats because camera makers optimized for their own sensors, metadata, and software ecosystems rather than for one shared public raw standard.
Format comparison
| Feature | MPEG-2 | ARI |
|---|---|---|
| File type | Video | Image |
| Extensions |
|
|
| MIME type |
|
|
| Compression / quality | depends | raw |
| File size characteristics | large | large |
| Compatibility | moderate | limited |
| Editability | limited | high |
| Created year | 1995 | 2010 |
| Inventor | Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) | ARRI (Arnold & Richter) |
| Status | active | proprietary |
| Transparency | Not supported | Not supported |
| Animation | Not supported | Not supported |
| Primary use cases |
|
|
| Common software |
|
|
| Archival suitability | moderate | strong |
| Metadata handling | moderate | rich |
| Delivery profile | strong | limited |
| Workflow fit | delivery | source |
| Layer support | Not supported | Not supported |
| Camera raw data | Not supported | Supported |
| HDR support | Not supported | Not supported |
| Streaming ready | Supported | Not supported |
When to use each format
When to use MPEG-2
- editing
- mastering
- streaming delivery
- Universal hardware decoder support in DVD players, set-top boxes, and broadcast equipment.
When to use ARI
- capture ingest
- editing
- web or print delivery
- Preserve capture-stage image data for later interpretation.
FAQs
Why convert MPEG-2 to ARI?
Choose ARI as target when maintaining compatibility with ARRI-originated raw image workflows or preserving frame data for grading and finishing.
What changes when converting MPEG-2 to ARI?
Convert to ARI when maintaining compatibility with ARRI-originated raw image workflows or preserving frame data for grading and finishing. It is appropriate for professional capture archives and controlled post-production pipelines.
What should I review after converting MPEG-2 to ARI?
After conversion, review these destination checks: Open converted output in LibRaw and verify behavior on real samples; Compare output against the expected raw quality profile; Many are vendor-specific and poorly documented publicly.
How can I keep quality stable in MPEG-2 to ARI conversion?
Run representative samples, keep settings deterministic, and monitor these risks: Compatibility often depends on decoder support in tools such as LibRaw, Adobe Camera Raw, or vendor software; Many are vendor-specific and poorly documented publicly; Validate destination compatibility before large-batch conversion.