Workflows
Forge supports two proxy workflow modes: Standard and Pro. The mode determines which processing engine is used.
Standard Mode
Standard mode uses FFmpeg for proxy generation. It handles most common production formats: ProRes, H.264, H.265, DNxHD, and others supported by FFmpeg.
Standard mode is the default. It requires no external software.
Pro Mode
Pro mode routes jobs through DaVinci Resolve Studio. This enables processing of RAW camera formats (BRAW, R3D, ARRIRAW, and others) that FFmpeg cannot decode.
Pro mode requires a licensed installation of DaVinci Resolve Studio on the same machine. Forge does not include Resolve and does not substitute for it.
Choosing a Mode
Use Standard mode unless your source media requires Resolve for decoding. The output quality and auditability are identical between modes — the difference is input format support.
| Criteria | Standard | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | FFmpeg | Resolve Studio |
| RAW support | No | Yes |
| External dependency | None | Resolve Studio |
| Default | Yes | No |
Spec Compatibility
Job specifications are mode-aware. A spec created for Standard mode will not run in Pro mode, and vice versa. This prevents accidental misconfiguration when switching between modes.