DaVinci Resolve AVI Import Error: Causes and Fixes

DaVinci Resolve is a great video editing tool, but importing AVI files doesn’t always go as expected. If your AVI file won’t load or only the audio plays, you’re not the only one facing this issue. DaVinci Resolve AVI support depends on the codec used in the file, which means some AVI formats work fine while others don’t. In this guide, we’ll go over why DaVinci Resolve AVI import problems happen and how you can fix them without converting your files.

Part 1. Reason Why DaVinci Resolve AVI Import Fails?

Several factors can cause DaVinci Resolve AVI import fails problem, such as unsupported formats, file corruption, or unusual video settings. Here are some common reasons why AVI files won’t import into DaVinci Resolve:

• Unsupported codec: DaVinci Resolve only works with certain video formats. If your AVI file has a codec that isn’t supported, it won’t import.
• Corrupt file: If the AVI file is damaged or wasn’t saved properly, DaVinci Resolve may not recognize it.
• Variable frame rate: DaVinci Resolve prefers videos with a steady frame rate. If your AVI file has a changing frame rate, it might not work.
• Broken file index: AVI files use an index to organize video and audio. If this index is missing or damaged, DaVinci Resolve won’t be able to read the file.
• DRM protection: Some AVI files have copyright protection that prevents them from being imported into DaVinci Resolve.
• Unusual resolution or size: If the AVI file has a very large or uncommon resolution, DaVinci Resolve might not support it.

Part 2. 7 Solutions to Fix DaVinci Resolve AVI Won’t Import Issues

If DaVinci Resolve won’t import your AVI files, don’t worry—there are ways to fix it. Unsupported codecs, file corruption or format restrictions usually cause the issue. Here are 7 solutions to help you import AVI files into DaVinci Resolve without trouble.

Fix 1. Use a Professional AVI Repair Tool

If your AVI file is corrupted, DaVinci Resolve may fail to import it or display errors during playback. Corruptions can occur due to incomplete downloads, unexpected interruptions during file transfers, or issues with the video’s encoding. Instead of struggling with manual troubleshooting, using a specialized repair tool like Repairit AVI File Repair can help restore your AVI files.

Repairit AVI File Repair is a video repair tool to fix corrupted AVI files and other video formats. It can resolve issues like missing frames, distorted audio, playback errors, and structural damage within AVI files.

• Repairs damaged AVI files that won’t open or import properly.
• Fixes playback issues, such as lag, freezing, or missing audio.
• Restores broken file structures to ensure compatibility with DaVinci Resolve.
• Supports various AVI codecs, making the files readable for video editing.

Step 1. Get Wondershare Repairit. After that, press the +Add button within the Video Repair section to add damaged DaVinci Resolve AVI files in the repair list.

Step 2. Click the Repair button to begin the video repair procedure after uploading the DaVinci Resolve AVI file.

Note: Please utilize the Advance Repair option to fix the DaVinci Resolve AVI if you believe it to be significantly broken. After a while, click the Preview button to view the updated file.

Step 3. If you are happy with how the repaired DaVinci Resolve AVI looks, click store and select a location to store them. But don't take them back to where they were injured in the first place.

Fix 2. Convert AVI to DaVinci Resolve Supported Codec

If DaVinci Resolve doesn’t recognize your AVI file, the issue might be an unsupported codec. A simple solution is to convert the file into a format that Resolve supports, such as DNxHD, ProRes, or GoPro CineForm.

One of the easiest tools for this is CloudConvert, an online file converter that doesn’t require software installation.

Step 1. Go to CloudConvert in your web browser.

Step 2. Select "Select File" and then upload your AVI file.

Step 3. Choose the output format (recommended: MP4 with H.264, DNxHD, or ProRes).

Step 4. Press "Convert" and watch for the conversion to finish.

Step 5. Download the converted file and try importing it into DaVinci Resolve.

After conversion, your new file should work smoothly in DaVinci Resolve. This method is best if the issue is codec-related.

Fix 3. Re-export the AVI File

If your AVI file is damaged or has a broken index, try exporting it again from its source. For example, if the AVI came from a screen recording, record it again and save it properly. If it was created in a video editing program, re-export it using the correct AVI settings. A fresh export reduces the chances of corruption, making it easier for Resolve to import.

Let’s use Adobe Premiere Pro as an example:

Step 1. Open Adobe Premiere Pro and import the AVI file.

Step 2. Drag the file into the timeline.

Step 3. Click File and Export then Media.

Step 4. Choose AVI as the format and select appropriate settings.

Step 5. Click Export, then try importing the new file into DaVinci Resolve.

Fix 4. Change AVI Frame Rate

DaVinci Resolve works best with constant frame rates (24fps, 25fps, or 30fps). If your AVI file has a variable frame rate, Resolve might not recognize it. To fix this, use a video editing or conversion tool to set a constant frame rate, then try importing the file again.

Fix 5. Remove DRM

If your AVI file has DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection, Resolve won’t be able to import it. To fix this, use a DRM removal tool (if legally allowed) or ask the file provider for a DRM-free version. Keep in mind that removing DRM from copyrighted content without permission may violate certain laws.

Step 1. Download and install TunesKit Video Converter.

Step 2. Open the software and import your DRM-protected AVI file.

Step 3. Select an output format like MP4, DNxHD, or ProRes.

Step 4. After selecting Convert, watch for the procedure to finish.

Step 5. Import the new file into DaVinci Resolve.

Fix 6. Change Resolution

If the AVI file has an uncommon resolution, Resolve might not support it. Try resizing the video using a video editing tool. Supported resolutions include 720p, 1080p, and 4K. Once resized, Resolve should recognize the file.

Fix 7. Update DaVinci Resolve

If nothing else works, make sure you’re using the latest version of DaVinci Resolve. Software updates often include better codec support and bug fixes, which might resolve AVI import issues that appeared in older versions.

Part 3. Tips For AVI DaVinci Resolve Import

If you're still having trouble importing AVI files into DaVinci Resolve, here are some helpful tips to ensure a smoother editing process.

1. Install Missing Codecs. Make sure your computer has the right codecs. If a codec is missing, download it from the official website.
2. Keep DaVinci Resolve Updated. Install the latest version of DaVinci Resolve. If issues persist, try clearing the cache or resetting preferences.
3. Convert AVI to a Supported Format. Use a tool like HD Video Converter Factory Pro to convert AVI to a compatible format before importing.
4. Record in Lower Resolution & Frame Rate. If you’re creating AVI files, use a lower resolution and frame rate to make editing easier.
5. Reduce File Size with Lower Bitrate. Transcoding your AVI file to a lower bitrate can prevent audio sync problems and improve performance.
6. Update Graphics Drivers. Ensure your graphics card driver is up to date and that your system meets DaVinci Resolve’s minimum requirements.
7. Close Unnecessary Programs. Free up system resources by closing other apps and background processes, especially when working with large AVI files.

Conclusion

Dealing with DaVinci Resolve AVI import issues can be resolved as long as you have an idea of the right approach. Whether you repair, convert, or adjust your AVI files, these fixes ensure that your editing process remains fine.