I'm using version DVDFab HD Decrypter 4.0.4.0 and the selection for DVD5 or DVD9 is only showing DVD9 as a selection. DVD5 is not even shown. Is this normal?

Hi rizzofsp and welcome to cdfreaks,

I own platinum, so I don't use the freeware version of Fab, but here's my guess.
DVDFab HD Decrypter will not compress, so unless your file size is less than 4482 MB (SL max)...realistically should be less than 4470 even with top quality media, the resultant file will not fit on a dvd5.
If the file size is less than 4470 MB, then you can burn it to a dvd5 irrespective of the "target size" shown, ie., dvd5 or dvd9.

So does the Platinum version compress? I assume if the disk is originally a DVD9, then by selecting in the drop down menu "DVD5" should compress it, otherwise why have the drop down menu?

Yes, platinum will do just about anything and everything, all within one application.

Dunno about your 2nd question. I haven't fooled with the freeware app in a very long time, so I'm not much help with this one. There are a lot of folks who use it though and hopefully someone will pop in here.

I know that with the early releases of DVDFabdecrypter (even before the HD support), the app would only rip the entire disc, period. Fengtao has added some features such as the capability to rip main movie, but like I said...I'm not up to date on this application.

Sorry I can't be more help.

Yes FAB HD Decrypter only rips flick to HDD > DVD-9 size file..So use DVDshrink or better yet DVDRB Rebuilder
on Fabs ripped folder to compress to DVD-5 size...
But gotta tell you,much easier to use the All in One Platinum...
But try main movie only with Fab HD first,might fit DVD-5, as maineman stated..

Gotta agree with the maineman Your best bet is to go with at least Fab Gold or better yet, the Platinum version. I have 2 other apps. that I used to use when I only used HD Dycrypter. But since I got Platinum, I haven't opened them since. It's thye best. ~ Mike