Windows Media Audio File Settings Dialog - General Tab

The General tab in the Windows Media Audio File Settings dialog allows you to specify sample rate, bit depth, and channels for the encoded file.

Sample Rate

Allows you to set the sample rate to 44.100, 48.000, or 96.000 kHz. Set this to match the sample rate of the source material or use the closest available value that is higher than the actual value.

Bit Depth

Allows you to set the bit depth to 16 bit or 24 bit. Set this parameter to match the bit depth of the source material or use the closest available value that is higher than the actual value.

Note

Always keep in mind the intended use of the file. For publication on the Internet, you might not want too high bit rates, for example.

Channels

This setting depends on the chosen output. You cannot change it manually.

Mode

Select Constant Bit Rate if you want to limit the file size. To calculate the size of a file that is encoded with a constant bit rate, multiply the bit rate by the duration of the file.
Select Variable Bit Rate if you want the bit rate to fluctuate depending on the character and intricacy of the material being encoded. The more complex passages in the source material, the higher the bit rate – and the larger the final file.
Select Lossless to encode the file with lossless compression.

Bit Rate/Quality

Allows you to set the bit rate settings depending on the selected mode and/or output channels. The higher the bit rate or quality you select, the larger the final file.