Windows Media Audio File Settings - General

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



  1. Sample Rate

    Allows you to set the sample rate to 44.100, 48000, or 96000 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.

  2. Bit Depth

    Allows you to set the bit depth to 16 bit or 24 bit. Set this parameter to match the sample rate 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 internet, you might not want too high bit rates, for example.

  3. Channels

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

  4. Mode

    • Select Constant Bitrate 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 Bitrate 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.

  5. Bit Rate/Quality

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