Which Bitrate?
A question we’re often asked .... and usually try to fend off. It’s a terribly technical area, one that usually generates more heat than light. Normally our approach is to say trust us. We’ve been ripping music CDs for years, you can rely on us to deliver the best sound quality. However some people have different needs, including the deep desire to understand what goes on under the hood.
So here’s some data on alternative bit rates and how each might be an option if you aren’t seeking the best possible sound quality.
Podcasting:
- 32Kbps – A great option “B” to provide for the bandwidth impaired.
- 64Kbps – Great for longer programs. If it’s mostly chatter, however, consider converting to mono (see below)
- 128Kbps – Great short programs, or if you’re featuring music or other quality-demanding content.
Music:
- 64Kbps – Good for posting a low quality preview for fast streaming
- 128Kbps – Acceptable Quality
- 192Kbps – Good Quality
- 256Kbps – Great Quality
- 320Kbps - Best Quality possible.
Production:
- 128Kbps – Good for showcasing, airchecks, and demo reels.
- 224Kbps – Good for sharing workparts and finished material.
- 320Kbps – A great way to archive old material and workparts. You burn the original session files to a backup, then keep the MP3 files around so you always have them available to listen to.
Just Voice:
- 128Kbps – Great with “convert to mono” option selected.
