Sound File Formats Information/Help

Here's some help on sound files. There is more extensive help out there, but this is what I have learned (and can pass on) related to the sound file formats that I use on my page. I have only used PC sound file products (not Apple) so this only relates to PC Windows systems...

Songs in Real Audio Format

This format is the best that I have found to play music, via and internet connection, quickly. There is a small amount of time to connect and buffer the sound data, but, depending on your connection speed, it is pretty fast and the quality can be pretty good.

One disadvantage (for the listener more than the artist) is that you can't actually download a copy of the sound files in this format (unless the owner sends it to you).

This format requires that you have the Real Audio Player. This software is FREE. All you need to do is connect to the site, download it and install it. Remember though that Real Audio also sells products and upgrades, so stay with the options that specify FREE downloads.

Here is a link to the Real Audio site:
Click HERE to Download the RealAudio Player...

Songs in MP3 Format

This format is good for fairly high quality sound files in a fairly small size (it's all relative of course) and is popular for getting free music via the internet.

MP3s can be downloaded, which typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes per song (plus or minus, of course) using a 56k modem or you sometimes have the option to stream MP3 files also.

An advantage to downloading the music to your PC is that you can then play it anytime (or transfer it to another device to play anytime).

This format requires that you have an MP3 Player. This software is FREE. All you need to do is connect to one of the sites that offer a player, download and install it.

Here is a link to the MP3.COM site:
Click HERE to Download the MP3 Player...

Windows Microsoft Media Player

Well, now we got this one too, of course... I am not personally as familiar with the Windows player but I believe that it can play MP3 and Real Audio sound files in addition to the Windows media files.

Songs in WAV Format

The biggest advantage to this format is that most PCs (these days) can already play this format without any additional software. So if you do not have any of the extra software, or don't want to try to install anything, you can still listen to sound files via this format.

The disadvantage, once again, is that the files must download to your PC prior to playing, and WAV files are much larger than MP3s (assuming the same length of time, level of quality, etc).

If you still have questions, here's my EMAIL address: chapman99@worldnet.att.net I will help if I can...

Disclaimer: I'm sure I should have some small print here that says this is not official and don't sue me if I am wrong, etc... :-) :-)

Last Update: 8/23/2001