MP3

MP3 is short for MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3 and it is the preferred audio format at The Mixing Bowl due to its compatibility and high quality when used at bitrates of 128kbps and above. Any hardware and software player/device can decode and play these files.

MP3 creation

The LAME encoder is needed. Encoding with LAME is very simple and easy:

• 3.97 beta 3 is the LAME version you need (download the LAME 3.97 beta 3 bundle from this page)
• The input file for lame is most often a WAV file (CD tracks or recorded broadcasts with the *.wav extension). The general syntax (command line) for getting a suitable mp3-file is quite simple: "lame.exe switch input.wav".
• Create preferably variable bitrate files (VBR) with a targeted average bitrate between 170-210kbps, if possible. Do this by trying the -V 2 --vbr-new switch first (fully sufficient for tracks from CD), then -V 1 --vbr-new and finally the -V 0 --vbr-new switch (the alternative switches might be necessary for WAV files recorded from FM broadcasts), whatever of them gives results in the desired bitrate range.

If you don't like the LAME command line and prefer graphical interfaces or simply - if you want to read a more complete guide then please read the LAME page on the wiki.

CD Ripping to MP3

The best way to rip CDs to MP3 is with EAC. The following three EAC guides are very good:

• Guide 1 - The Coaster Factory
• Guide 2 - Teqnilogik
• Guide 3 - Essential Ripping Guide