My understanding of digital media formats vs. vinyl is that the digital version will always be superior in audio content fidelity since records cannot effectively duplicate all audio frequencies (especially stereo effects). Digital formats can duplicate frequencies beyond what we can hear and what can be reproduced with existing vinyl presses. This does not imply that digital formats sound better however and records do tend to have an analog "warmth" that digital formats can lack (which is a strong case for records). The obvious advantages are that there is a very low noise floor with digital formats and they don't degenerate over time. Now for WAV/AIFF vs. MP3 the main concern is the quality of the encoding. The WAV format (per Redbook spec) is considered perfect and is completely lossless. MP3 compression cuts the dynamic range at ~18-19 kHz per channel (at maximum quality settings) and with correct encoding software an MP3 can have the same perceptible quality as the original even though it will act as a low pass filter at 18 kHz(99% of the population cannot hear frequencies this high anyway). I have several good websites that do pretty extensive studies as to what is perfect MP3 compression and will be happy to provide those on request.
Raph -----Original Message----- From: LR2 [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, May 21, 2002 10:27 AM To: 'Tom Robbins/Magic Feet'; '313 mailing list' Subject: [313] Question: Final Scratch After reading of Kevin Saunderson's conversion, it reminded me that I've had a question about this technology. I've always heard that one of the appeals of vinyl (for audiophiles in particular) is the frequency response range; especially in the low end. It's what purists have complained is missing in CDs for years. Does any one have a technical perspective on the audio quality of MP3 vs vinyl? I understand that MP3 is a compressed format and am curious if that compression would noticeably affect the sound, especially in a large club-like setting. For my needs, MP3 is fine as I listen to it on computer speakers, or rip it and listen to it in my car stereo...I'm not really concerned about superior audio quality in those settings as I don't have the greatest gear to reproduce it faithfully. But, in these mega-clubs and parties where the gear can be of the highest caliber, do you reckon 160 kbps (as Kevin mentioned) will cut it? I'm not trying to start a debate, I'm simply curious for input from those who might have a deeper understanding. Thanks! Leslie Rollins --------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] For additional commands, e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] --------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] For additional commands, e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
