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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 codec or format 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 streaming, or compressed to reduce file size.

Practical examples include:

  • Converting an MP3 audio file to AAC format for better compatibility with certain devices.
  • Reducing the audio bitrate to decrease file size for faster uploads or downloads.
  • Changing the number of audio channels (e.g., from stereo to mono) to meet specific playback requirements.

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 target audio codec to use for transcoding (e.g., mp3, aac, wav).
Transcoding Options Collection of optional settings:
- Audio Bitrate: Target bitrate in kbps (default 128).
- Audio Channels: Number of audio channels (default 1).

Output

The node outputs the transcoded audio file in a binary field named according to the "Audio Output Name" property. The json output typically contains metadata about the operation or the processed item, while the actual audio data is stored in the specified binary field. This binary data represents the audio file encoded with the selected codec and options.

Dependencies

  • Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg service.
  • The node depends on an external ffmpeg processing backend accessible via API.
  • Proper configuration of this API credential within n8n is necessary for the node to function.

Troubleshooting

  • Invalid Audio Input: If the input audio URL is invalid or the specified binary field does not contain audio data, the node will fail. Ensure the input is correctly provided.
  • Unsupported Codec: Specifying an unsupported audio codec may cause errors. Verify that the codec is supported by the ffmpeg backend.
  • API Authentication Errors: Missing or incorrect API credentials will prevent the node from connecting to the ffmpeg service.
  • Output Field Conflicts: Using an output binary field name that conflicts with existing fields may overwrite data unintentionally. Use unique names.
  • Bitrate or Channel Values: Providing non-numeric or out-of-range values for bitrate or channels can cause transcoding failures.

Links and References

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