Encoding video for DVD with mencoder; AC3; distorted sound

It is well known that mencoder can be used to encode video to be burned on DVD with a tool like dvdauthor. The whole procedure is described here:

7.8. Using MEncoder to create VCD/SVCD/DVD-compliant files

Sound for a DVD is normally encoded with AC3. I encountered some cases where the encoded sound was badly distorted. As it seems, the default for the input changed to float at some point. The fix for this is to use

acodec=ac3_fixed

instead of “acodec=ac3”.

This is just for the record, not a question.

A related thread
DEVEDE menu noise - Page 2