
When possible it is preferable that MP3 files be created using a variable bitrate. The greater number of bits per second will preserve more of the complex acoustic envelope. Orchestral classical should do well at 256kbps for portable players, but files of 320kbps might be a better choice if you'll be burning to CD for the home or car.įor saturated music such as hard rock, metal, arena, pop, electronic and house music, 320kbps will give the best results.


Soft jazz can normally be replicated at 192kbps to create a good balance between file size and diminishing returns, though 256kbps might sound better on the home entertainment center. To make quality MP3 files from classical music and jazz, the best bitrate depends on the song’s characteristics. Also the work of many classic artists such as James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell, and Simon & Garfunkel. Music that falls in this category would include ballads, "boy-band" songs, easy listening and folk music. If the music will be played on high quality equipment, you might opt for 256kbps. Non-saturated acoustic music that features simple arrangements should get good results with a bitrate of 192kbps. A 64kbps MP3 file made from a voice recording should sound nearly identical to the original. Voices might sound "flat" at 32kbps, though they will be understandable. For audio voice recordings such as lectures or language lessons preserved in wave form, bitrates of 32 kilobits per second ( kbps) should be acceptable, though 64kbps might provide better quality depending on the source.
