Anyway to see a preview of the video (even a still image) before rendering?

[Selur]

is there anyway to see a preview of the video?

Do you mean:

1. A preview of the filtered source? Then: 'Yes, simply use the AvisynthPreview.' (or VapoursynthPreview if you use Vapoursynth)
   
2. A preview of the filtered source that is encoded with the settings you chose?
   Then: No really. What you could do is encode only a section of the source (enable: 'Config->Internals->Cut Support' and make sure to read the tool tips).
   
3. Something different I didn't think of. -> Please explain.
   

Cu Selur