Audio and Video

Importing media files

You can import audio and video files into MAXQDA in several ways:

• Drag the file directly into the documents window
• Click the plus icon in the documents window
• Go to the Import menu and select Audio or Videos

When importing a media file, MAXQDA creates a new text document linked to the file. By default, the media file is copied to the MAXQDA Externals folder. If a file with the same name already exists there, MAXQDA asks whether to overwrite it. For more information about externally stored files, see External Files.

In the documents window, text documents with an associated media file are marked with a play icon.

Clicking the icon opens the document with the linked media file ready for playback.

Supported file formats

• Audio formats:
  • Windows: MP3, WAV, WMA, AAC, M4A
  • Mac: MP3, WAV, AAC, CAF, M4A
• Video formats:
  • MP4, MOV, MPG, M4V, 3GP, 3GGP
  • Windows only: AVI, WMV
  • Recommended: MP4 with the H.264/AVC codec for best performance

Recommended resolution

High-resolution video files can be very large without providing a meaningful benefit in MAXQDA, since the video is displayed in a window rather than full screen. An HD resolution (720p) is sufficient for most workflows. If you are using a retina or 4K monitor, Full HD (1080p) may be appropriate.

A frame rate of 25–30 frames per second and a data rate of approximately 1,500 kilobits per second are usually sufficient. To check the format, resolution, frame rate, and data rate of a video file:

• Windows: Right-click the file, select Properties, and open the Details tab.
• macOS: Open the file in QuickTime Player and press Cmd+I.

Converting videos

If your video is in an unsupported format or needs to be reduced in size, you can convert it using a free tool before importing:

• Windows: XMedia Recode: drag your file into the application, select an output format such as "HTML 5 1280×720 HD (mp4)", choose a save location, and click Add to queue, then Encode.
• macOS: QuickTime Player: open your file and select File > Export as > 720p (or 1080p).

Notes for handling media files

• For best performance, store media files on your local hard disk. If needed, an external drive connected via USB 3 is also suitable.
• Avoid saving media files to network folders unless you have a fast cable network.
• To protect confidential files, you can store them in an encrypted folder using VeraCrypt. Note that encryption may reduce performance when accessing the files.
• If your media files are already stored in a dedicated folder, you can designate that folder as the "Folder for external files" in MAXQDA's preferences. This prevents files from being copied during import.
• When you first open a media file in MAXQDA, a small .dat file is created alongside it in the Externals folder. Do not delete this file; MAXQDA needs it for fast playback.

Importing with an existing transcript

When importing a media file, MAXQDA offers the option to link an existing transcript at the same time. If the transcript does not include timestamps, MAXQDA can insert them automatically at regular intervals, allowing you to play back the recording from any point in the text.

Using MAXQDA Transcription for automatic transcripts

Instead of linking an existing transcript, you can have MAXQDA transcribe your media file automatically using MAXQDA Transcription, the integrated AI-powered transcription service. This option is available during the import process.

For supported file formats, file size limits, and full details, see MAXQDA Transcription.

Linking a media file to an existing document

You can also link a media file to an existing text document. Right-click the document in the documents window, open the Media File section in the context menu, and select Link Audio/Video File.

To change or remove an existing media file assignment, right-click the document and select Properties. In the Media File tab of the dialog, you can assign a different file. To remove an existing assignment before adding a new one, hover over the current file to reveal the remove option.

Analyzing audio and video

Once imported, audio and video files can be played directly in the Document Browser or opened for detailed coding and analysis in the Media Player. For a complete overview of working with video in MAXQDA, see Analyzing Videos.