This guide will show you the software and hardware you need, features to look for in the software and how to configure your MP3 encoding software to produce great quality MP3 files.
The Hardware;
- Pentium or Higher machine,
- With sound card and speakers and 24x CD-ROM,
- 32X CD-Writer to cut your MP3 files onto a new CD,
- 16 MB RAM or higher,
- Internet connection (56k or higher preferably).
The Software;
- Windows 95/98/2000 or NT,
- Mp3 ripping software (check out MP3 Ripping software Part I or MP3 Ripping Software – Part II)
Software Encoders
Software encoders or MP3 rippers are programs that read the data from the music source and translates it into MP3 format based on a number of settings you establish before the recording begins.
MP3 encoding software can be either downloaded for free or purchased online from many web sites. Some of the free versions have limited number of options and features. Check out check out “ MP3 Ripping software Part I or MP3 Ripping Software – Part II” for reviews on the latest MP3 encoders available today.
The Settings
The good MP3 encoders give the user total control over creating MP3 files, with the many settings and functions available with the software. But these functions and setting of the software could be confusing at first. Read the documentation that accompanies the software; take a tutorial offered by the publisher (if offered) or simply go through the software to familiarise yourself with the different functions to overcome your confusion and better use the software
Bit rates and sampling rates
Few things affect MP3 audio quality as much as its recorded bit rate. Bit rate is the measure of kilobits per second (Kbps) used to store the audio. More kilobits per second equates to higher-quality audio. This also means more space is required for recording and storage of a MP3 file. The standard bit rate of a CD you buy at the store is about 1,411 Kbps and the standard bit rate for MP3 recordings is 128 Kbps, although some software allows you to record at higher or lower bit rates.
Don't be confused with the sampling rate and bit rate. The sampling rate is measured in kilohertz (KHz). This is the number of times per second that the original sound source was sampled during recording. CD-quality audio is recorded in stereo at a sampling rate of 44.1 KHz. No matter what bit rate you use to record audio, it will never sound better than the original source. A 44.1 KHz stereo recording converted to MP3 format at a bit rate of 128 Kbps will always sound better than a 24 KHz mono recording converted at the same (or even a higher) bit rate.
