The encoder window allows you to convert your Linear PCM .wav audio files into high quality mp3PRO digital audio files. The demo version of this software only allows encoding of PCM .wav data sampled at 44.1 kHz into the new mp3PRO format at a data rate of 64 kbps, but is unlimited with respect to number of files or period of time. The encoder does not include CD audio ripping capabilities, so CD audio data must first be stored as the .wav format and then converted to the new mp3PRO format. For information on the availability of advanced mp3PRO encoding software including support for other datarates please visit Coding Technologies on the Internet.
To encode a .wav file into mp3PRO, it must be selected in the Input field by either selecting it from the Audio File Library window or browsing for it on your computer's file system. By right clicking on a .wav file in an Explorer window and choosing Encode to mp3PRO, you can launch the encoder window without having to run the main application. Optionally, you can then select the name of the output file in the Output field, or accept the default output name provided. Selecting the Output Directory button at the top of the window will change the supplied default output directory for future use.
Once the input file and the output file have been specified, encoding can begin. A number of options can be selected to alter the encoding process. They are as follows:
Allow Intensity Stereo: Intensity stereo is used to increase sound quality by coding a single channel plus stereo pan information rather than two independent channels. By un-checking this option you can achieve a better stereo image at the loss of sound quality. The default is checked.
Extra High Quality: Selecting this option slightly decreases the speed of the encoding process to achieve highest sound quality. The default is checked.
Monitor Playback: If this is checked, you can listen to the song while it is being encoded, thus encoding speed matches exactly real-time whereas not using this feature on a fast PC encoding times of only a fraction of the length of the song may be achieved.. The volume button located at the upper-right portion of the screen can be used to change the output volume when monitoring playback. This does not affect the volume of the encoded file though. The default is unchecked.
Add File To Library: This option adds the encoded song to the Audio File Library.
Once the Encode button is pressed, the encoding process will begin. The status of the encoding is displayed in the lower portion of the window. You can stop the process at any time by pressing the Stop button.