There are a couple of explinations for the size issue. You are probably converting the files into a higher bitrate mp3 than the wma, so the file is bigger. I would just rip the files again using WMP and Mp3 and 192 or 256 kbps bitrate.
If you have the original CD’s you are better off reripping them.
I don’t know if WMP uses a good mp3 encoder. I suspect not since WMA standard isn’t so hot and Microsoft’s official line is that WMA at 64 kb/s is equal to mp3 at 128 kb/s. With the better mp3 encoders it is closer to the other way around. Lame and Helix seem to be the top of the pile and Itunes should be ok too.
A good alternative, still compatible with Clip, would be ogg/vorbis.
actually, I did a dummy test with just one song set in both Mp3 and WMA with 192 kbps…turns out that the MP3 files are at least 1.5 to 2 MB smaller than the WMA files. interesting.
and is 192 kbps the preferred quality format? just wondering.
If you have the original CD’s you are better off reripping them.
I don’t know if WMP uses a good mp3 encoder. I suspect not since WMA standard isn’t so hot and Microsoft’s official line is that WMA at 64 kb/s is equal to mp3 at 128 kb/s. With the better mp3 encoders it is closer to the other way around. Lame and Helix seem to be the top of the pile and Itunes should be ok too.
A good alternative, still compatible with Clip, would be ogg/vorbis.
WMP uses the traditional Fronhaufer MP3 codec, as opposed to the newer and preferred LAME version…and doesn’t give you the option of VBR
I think they use the old version of MP3 to quantify their claim that WMA is better(plus they let you do VBR with their WMA). In a way, it’s kind of Apple-ish:dizzy_face:…they’d prefer you use “their version”.
Message Edited by Marvin_Martian on 01-21-2009 11:22 PM
actually, I did a dummy test with just one song set in both Mp3 and WMA with 192 kbps…turns out that the MP3 files are at least 1.5 to 2 MB smaller than the WMA files. interesting.
and is 192 kbps the preferred quality format? just wondering.
I think 192 is considered a compromise between best sound and smallest file. People with great hearing and higher-grade earphones usually prefer higher rates for better sound quality, but that really can cut down on how many songs fit on your player…so you have to make a decision which way to go.