Best Sounding Compression Format
I have a large CD collection that I would like to transfer to my computer.
What compression format will give me the best audio quality. File size is not that important. Could you please rank the options in terms of sound quality versus file size. I currently own a Power Mac G4 and am using iTunes. I was planning to purchase an iPod. If the best compression format is not compatable with iTunes or the iPod, what would be an alternative to iTunes or the iPod. I am open to switching to Windows if it will allow more options in recording audio. I feel that this will be my most important use of a computer. Thanks
[625 byte] By [
drpje] at [2007-11-9 13:51:23]
# 1 Re: Best Sounding Compression Format
First, read Roberto's tests (http://audio.ciara.us/test/), especially the 128 Extension, and the discussions of the test in the HydrogenAudio pages (linked on that page).
My take on it is that most of the new formats are just about equally good. Avoid MP3. Many people consider AAC at 192kbps to be "transparent".
# 2 Re: Best Sounding Compression Format
The absolute best is mp3 using the LAME encoder set to extreme. This produces large files and take a long time. But if you determined to get the best possible sound, this is it.
If you decided to go with a more compressed file to save room and time, AAC is the best at 128kbps bit rate.
MikeM at 2007-11-15 17:41:41 >
# 3 Re: Best Sounding Compression Format
MikeM: I was under the impression that every mp3 file will clip off the high frequencies, no matter what compression methodolgy is used. Is that not the case for LAME-extreme?
# 4 Re: Best Sounding Compression Format
It all really a matter of opinion. There are a lot of various comparisons out there with fancy graphs but what really matters is your ears.
I don't know the specifics of what each format does as far as compression. But I do know that the larger the resulting file, the less compression was done. I know that sound quality depends not only on how much information is there but which areas are compressed more or less. But my general feeling is that larger is better.
The way for anyone to solve this is to do some testing of their own. Create multiple versions of the same songs at different rates and formats. Then listen using your equipment.
What you are listening with has as much of an effect as the quality of the file. With the stock iPod buds, you're not going to notice much difference, if any, between 128 aac's and the highest of quality files.
drpje, you're best bet is to purchase the iPod and do some testing. Find out what's best for your ears. Consider investing in some high quality phones too. And possibly a portable amp. Only then will you be able to truly get the best performance.
MikeM at 2007-11-15 17:43:46 >
