What would I need to do to change 320 kbps CBR to a VBR? I guess I should start by saying I'm simply doing this to cut back on file size. Would going from 320 CBR to VBR be better than 320 CBR to 192 CBR? Which is better, and whats the best way? Thx.
I wouldn't bother converting an MP3 to an MP3 as quality will be lost. JUst re-rip the file again from the original cd. If you don't have the original cd or you don't mind losing quality then a program like dBPowerAMP will do the job.
well VBR is definately better than CBR. a well encoded mp3 (such as one using lame with h=2 settings) at 192 VBR will be just as good as a CBR 320 mp3. but as weaz mentioned, anytime you transcode a lossy format to a lossy format, there is significant quality loss. If you have the original CDs re-rip them with EAC (exact audio copy) and encode with LAME. We have a guide on how to setup and use it here: http://www.afterdawn.com/guides/archive/mydeneaclame.cfm Or if you have your heart set on transcoding your mp3s, dBPowerAMP is a great free encoder utility, you can find it here: http://www.dbpoweramp.com/dmc.htm Be sure to install the LAME codec from the codec central page edit 4 typo