Converting video files to ipod friendly format

[UrbenLegend]

1.) I searched in the wiki and found out how to convert videos to the ipod using the command line. However, the windows command line is extremely cumbersome to use and I want to know how to do the exact same thing using VLC's streaming GUI (not the wizard).

2.) I tried converting a dvd to mp4 but the sound only plays in vlc and not in any other player.

3.) Some VLC converted ipod video files can be transfered to the Ipod, others cannot even though I used the exact same settings.

4.) Is it safe to use 1:1 as your aspect ratio?

Anybody know how to resolve these issues? Any help appreciated!