Refinement of Transcoding Integration for Plex Library Management with Emphasis on AV1 Format

[Martin_Keatings]

Summary:

This proposal introduces enhancements for Tdarr, Radarr, and Sonarr, aimed at improving the integration and management of media files for Plex, with a special focus on the transcoding process and efficient library updates. The increasing prevalence of the AV1 format and Plex’s adoption of it serve as the primary triggers for this proposal.

Detailed Features:

On Tdarr’s Side:

1. Source Directory Enhancement:

• Implement an option under the “source” directory in Tdarr’s interface, indicating the inclusion of a Plex ‘tbp/’ folder and a ‘.plexignore’ file.
• Users set /[root folder]/ as the source, with Tdarr processing files in /[root_folder]/tbp, and moving them to /[root folder]/ after transcoding.

2. AV1 Plugin Addition:

• Introduce a specific AV1 plugin to Tdarr, simplifying the transcoding process for users and embracing the latest video encoding standards.

On Radarr/Sonarr’s Side:

3. New ‘Transcoding’ Tab in Settings:

• Add a “Transcoding” tab within the Settings menu of Radarr and Sonarr, focusing on streamlined transcoding workflows.

4. Transcoding Settings Page Enhancements:

• Feature a tickbox for creating a ‘tbp’ folder and a ‘.plexignore’ file in the root directory.
• These tools facilitate the handling of files destined for transcoding and protect against misclassification by Radarr and Sonarr.

5. Integrated Workflow and Automation:

• Configure Radarr and Sonarr to recognize /[root folder]/tbp as a temporary storage for files awaiting Tdarr transcoding.
• Ensure these systems update their libraries to reflect file presence in both directories, and automate Plex library updates post-transcoding.

Collaboration and Flexibility:

• The enhancements proposed can be independently implemented by Tdarr, Radarr, or Sonarr.
• Even if only one party adopts these changes, the new setup will still offer benefits and can be utilized effectively.
• However, as part of a collaborative community, synchronized adoption would greatly enhance user experience and operational efficiency.

Benefits:

• Provides a more streamlined process for managing and transcoding media files, especially with the AV1 format.
• Reduces manual intervention and error in media file handling.
• Enhances user experience through a unified, automated workflow.