Re: help with mp3 file size


gregf@xxxxxxxx wrote:

> Is there a program that can show the bitrate of an mp3 file? That way I
> could compate these 2 files and see if that really is the reason one is
> bigger than the other.
>
> Pawel Kusmierek wrote:
> > Yes, the parameter is called bitrate, it is measured in kbps (typical
> > values: 64, 128, 192, 256, 320). It is probably the most important
> > parameter of an mp3 file. So if you don't know about bitrate, you
> > better read something on this topic before you start playing with mp3s.

The MP3 process has both advantages and drawbacks.
It looks attractive because it reduces the file size as it
compresses, but in doing so it is throwing out some
audio information that (subjectively) reduces "quality".
Quite a bit with the lowest bitrates.
Stereo, mono or joint stereo will effect the file size.
Joint stereo will further reduce file size from a true stereo
file at the expense of quality and separation.

I know that Adobe Audition will give the MP3 file attributes
in the file>open window - bitrate, encoder, and mode (stereo,
mono, MS J-stereo). I'm sure there are plenty of other
programs that provide the same utility and there must be
a utility that can give the same info from within the windows
file open dialog, or explorer.

If you're starting with a 32bit file it's best to dither the wave
file down to 16bit first before compressing as MP3 to retain
some control over the dither. Some other users may suggest
a combined process (possibly Lame) that yields decent
results. Lame can be used as a stand alone MP3 compressor
with it's support program available from SourceForge:
"RazorLame"

Disclaimer: I don't care for the MP3 process much and
in particular would not use anything below 128kb/s (stereo)
and I dislike the artifacts of joint stereo and VBR.
When I MUST use MP3 for practical purposes I tend to
prefer 192kb full stereo and use the Lame encoder.

rd

.

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