hi, I am wonderin if it is a good idea to convert 256 and higher mp3 files to lower vbr ogg files, or to vbr mp3 files, my cowon iaudio m3l is running out of room and I need to free up some space without losing quality, also does anyone have any suggestions for programs that will do this well. Thanks
no you will lose a lot of quality by converting, I don't recommend it. Anytime you convert a lossy format to another lossy format, quality will be lost. Its like making a copy of a copy of a VHS tape...each generation is worse. You're much better off starting over and re-ripping your CD collection at a lower bitrate. try using VBR 128, that should be decent for portable players. Use EAC (exact audio copy), its the best (and free) ripper there is, and when encoded with the LAME DLL plugin it will make great sounding mp3s. we have a step by step guide on how to use EAC here: http://www.afterdawn.com/guides/archive/mydeneaclame.cfm