ffmpeg Node

Overview

This node provides functionality to add filters and effects to media files (video or audio) using ffmpeg capabilities. It is useful in scenarios where you want to programmatically apply transformations such as scaling, grayscale, or other filter chains to media content within an n8n workflow.

Practical examples include:

• Adding visual effects like resizing or color adjustments to videos.
• Applying audio filters such as volume normalization or equalization.
• Automating media processing pipelines that require consistent filter application.

Properties

Output

The node outputs the processed media file in a binary field named as specified by the "Media File Output" property. The json output field typically contains metadata about the operation or the processed file, but the main output is the transformed media binary data with the applied filters and effects.

Dependencies

• Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg service.
• Depends on ffmpeg being available via the configured API endpoint.
• No additional environment variables are explicitly required beyond the API authentication.

Troubleshooting

• Common issues:

  • Invalid media input URL or missing binary input field can cause failures.
  • Incorrect filter syntax or unsupported filter names may result in errors from ffmpeg.
  • Mismatched media type selection (e.g., applying video filters to audio) can cause unexpected behavior.

• Error messages:

  • Errors related to media loading usually indicate invalid input references.
  • Filter parsing errors suggest syntax mistakes in the filter string; verify filter names and parameters.
  • Authentication errors imply missing or incorrect API credentials.

To resolve these, ensure the input media is correctly referenced, filters are properly formatted according to ffmpeg documentation, and API credentials are valid.

Links and References

• FFmpeg Filters Documentation
• n8n Custom Node Development