Convert Incompatible Media

When Sequence prepares media

Some files use a container or codec that is unreliable for macOS playback. When Sequence detects a compatibility problem, it opens the Media Compatibility flow before creating the working project.

The goal is to create a version of the media that works well with Sequence and editing apps, while keeping your original project relationship intact. The prepared file is tracked in the project metadata so playback, export, relinking, and history can all refer to the right file later.

Remux first

Sequence attempts a remux before falling back to full conversion. Remuxing places the existing media streams in a more compatible container without re-encoding them, so it is usually quick and avoids a generational encode.

If remuxing succeeds, the project uses the remuxed file for compatible playback and export. Your original media remains available unless you have explicitly enabled the setting to delete originals after remuxing.

When conversion is needed

If the file cannot be fixed by remuxing, Sequence can convert it to a more compatible MP4. Conversion takes longer because the media is actually being transcoded, so longer videos can take a while.

You can keep working in Sequence while conversion runs. Long-running work appears in the Action Center, and if you enable system notifications Sequence can notify you when the job finishes.

Conversion preferences

In the Media Conversion screen, set the video and audio bitrate manually or leave quality on Auto so Sequence chooses settings from the source.

Conversion settings also include defaults for remuxing, codec choices, MP3-to-M4A conversion, and the option to delete originals after a successful remux. That last setting is destructive. Leave it off unless the original files are backed up and you are certain they are no longer needed.

Managing prepared files

Prepared media shows in the metadata area with badges such as Remux or Converted. If you move the prepared file later, use relinking rather than re-running the conversion. If you intentionally want to remove a prepared file, Sequence includes delete actions for remuxed and converted media.