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ffmpeg Node

n8n Node for some Ffmpeg functionality

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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

Name Meaning
Media File Input A valid media URL or the name of the input binary field containing the media file.
Media File Output The name of the output binary field that will contain the processed media file.
Media File Selects the type of media to process: either "Video" or "Audio".
Filter and Effects For Video: a comma-separated list of video filters/effects to apply (e.g., scale=640:480, grayscale).
Filter and Effects For Audio: a comma-separated list of audio filters/effects to apply.

Output

The node outputs the processed media file in a binary field named as specified by the "Media File Output" property. The output contains the media data after applying the requested filters and effects.

  • The json output field typically includes metadata about the operation or the processed file.
  • The binary output field contains the actual transformed media file (video or audio).

Dependencies

  • Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg service.
  • Depends on an external ffmpeg processing backend accessible via the configured API.
  • 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 may lead to errors from the ffmpeg backend.
    • Specifying incompatible filters for the selected media type (e.g., video filters on audio) will not work.

  • Error messages:

    • Errors related to media loading usually indicate invalid input references.
    • Filter parsing errors suggest malformed filter strings; verify filter syntax according to ffmpeg documentation.
    • Authentication errors imply missing or incorrect API credentials.

  • Resolutions:

    • Ensure the input media field or URL is correctly set and accessible.
    • Validate filter strings with ffmpeg filter syntax before use.
    • Confirm API credentials are properly configured in n8n.

Links and References

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