-vf "hqdn3d=1.5:1.5:3:3" -c:v libx265 -preset medium -crf 20 \ -x265-params "no-sao=1:deblock=-2,-2:psy-rd=1.5:psy-rdoq=5.0"
1,500 to 2,500 kbps for 1080p video; 6,000 to 10,000 kbps for 4K.
Hardware encoders are built for speed and live streaming; they require significantly higher bitrates to achieve the same visual clarity as software encoding. RARBG strictly used . While a CPU encode takes significantly longer to process, it is the only way to achieve tiny file sizes without turning the video into a pixelated mess. 5. Summary Checklist for Your Encoding Pipeline RARBG Standard Value Codec x265 10-bit Reduces color banding in gradients. Resolution 1080p / Cropped Removes useless black bar data. Rate Control 2-Pass VBR (2000 kbps) or CRF 23 Strictly controls final file size. Preset Maximum efficiency compression algorithms. SAO Disabled ( no-sao=1 ) Preserves sharpness and prevents blur. Audio AC3 5.1 @ 448kbps High device compatibility, low footprint.
To enforce a strict file size instead of using CRF, swap crf=23 for a target bitrate: Rarbg X265 Encoding Settings
RARBG used 2-pass encoding instead of CRF (Constant Rate Factor). The first pass analyzes the movie. The second pass distributes the bits. This ensures the final file hits an exact target size.
Here's an example of what your encoding settings might look like:
Always use 10-bit encoding. This is true even if your source video is 8-bit. 10-bit color prevents ugly color banding in dark scenes. It also makes the encoder work more efficiently. 2-Pass Encoding -vf "hqdn3d=1
Unlike many "scene" or P2P groups that use Constant Rate Factor (CRF), RARBG typically used a strict average bitrate target to ensure highly predictable file sizes across different movies and TV shows. Fast Encoding Presets:
The perfect RARBG x265 encode is a chain of compromises: sacrificing pristine audio for video bits, smoothing grain for compression, and disabling SAO for sharpness. You can mourn the loss of the website, but you can still run the encodes.
Adaptive Quantization distributes bits across different parts of a frame. Standard x265 tends to blur dark areas or flat surfaces to save space. --aq-mode 3 --aq-strength 1.0 While a CPU encode takes significantly longer to
RARBG did not use "one-size-fits-all" presets. They tailored their parameters to maximize the efficiency of the x265 codec. Their primary goals were clear:
If you are using the x265 CLI directly or pasting parameters into HandBrake’s "Advanced Options" box, use the template below. For 1080p Blu-ray Sources: