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ffmpeg Node

n8n Node for some Ffmpeg functionality

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Overview

This node provides audio transcoding functionality using ffmpeg. It allows users to convert audio files from one format or codec to another, adjusting parameters such as codec type, bitrate, and number of audio channels. This is useful in scenarios where audio files need to be standardized for compatibility, optimized for size or quality, or prepared for specific playback environments.

Practical examples include:

  • Converting an MP3 file to AAC with a specific bitrate for mobile streaming.
  • Downmixing stereo audio to mono to reduce file size.
  • Changing the audio codec to match requirements of a target platform or device.

Properties

Name Meaning
Audio Input A valid audio URL or the name of the input binary field containing the audio to transcode.
Audio Output Name The name of the output binary field where the transcoded audio file will be stored.
Audio Codec The audio codec to use for transcoding (e.g., mp3, aac, wav).
Transcoding Options Collection of optional settings:
- Audio Bitrate: Numeric value specifying bitrate in kbps (default 128).
- Audio Channels: Number of audio channels (default 1).

Output

The node outputs the transcoded audio file in a binary data field named according to the "Audio Output Name" property. The json output contains metadata about the operation result, but the primary output is the binary audio data ready for further processing or saving.

Dependencies

  • Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg service.
  • Relies on ffmpeg functionality exposed via an external API or service configured in n8n credentials.
  • No additional environment variables are explicitly required based on static analysis.

Troubleshooting

  • Invalid Audio Input: If the input audio URL or binary field name is incorrect or inaccessible, the node may fail to fetch or read the audio data. Verify the input source is correct and accessible.
  • Unsupported Codec: Specifying an unsupported or misspelled audio codec can cause transcoding errors. Ensure the codec name matches supported ffmpeg codecs.
  • Bitrate or Channel Errors: Providing invalid values (e.g., negative numbers) for bitrate or channels may cause failures. Use sensible numeric values.
  • Credential Issues: Missing or invalid API authentication credentials will prevent the node from functioning. Confirm that the API key credential is properly set up in n8n.
  • Output Field Conflicts: Using an output binary field name that conflicts with existing fields might overwrite data unintentionally. Choose unique output field names.

Links and References

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