Are the bitrates only different or are there some subtle differences in the encoding parameters used during encoding? Be aware the 'Smart Rendering' can turn into an 'Idiotic Rendering' very quickly. You have multiple clips which were encoded differently - different bitrates. However, I've tried both methods on my sample DVD 15 mins ago, and both ways worked - zero frames re-encoded. Once done, you'll see that it uses the 'DVD reader' instead of the 'MPEG file reader'. There, you can optionally select which title sets you want (default all), the audio track(s) you want, and if you'll also want to import chapter points as well. Why? The 'proper' way (as far as TAW4 wants it), is to use it's 'Source Wizard' and import the whole VIDEO_TS folder (it's looking for the VIDEO_TS.IFO file). You 'forced' TAW4 to read your VOB directly - it used the 'MPEG file reader'. Personally, I've never gotten this and would like to find out why (curious). But during creation, it may encounter some GOPs that do not look compatible with the title set you're doing (eg, NTSC/PAL, frame size, aspect ratio, etc) and does re-encoding on the fly. So, it may think 'Smart Rendering' is possible, and gave you the blue 'SR' icon. It does not inspect the whole clip, just some headers.

It just means that 'it will not re-encode whenever possible'. 'Smart Rendering turned on' does not mean that TAW4 will not re-encode. The information you provided was helpful.

Tmpgenc authoring works 4 add items