I have lots of WMAs that I want to batch convert to variable bit rate MP3s and burn to CDs for my new Alpine CHA-S634 autochanger for the car.

I am struggling, following searches on here and google to find something that doesn't require registration before it will do more than 5 tracks, doesn't have lots of complexity etc.

dbPowerampmusic converter seems a start, any others?

 

cdex

haven't used it for a while.... but think it converts from/to many formats..

phil

 

Aye CDex should sort you out John

 

Yup, Cdex, but it will be rubbish quality. I'd rip the CDs again or buy them again from allofmp3 in a better format.

 

I used to think MP3's ripped at 128/160 sounded fine until I plumbed my xbox360 into my home system.

A quality stereo really highlights how crap they sound at lower bitrates, never noticed really on my car stereo or Ipod.

 

The problem with MP3 is that stuff is removed during the original conversion process. You obviously can't get this back unless you rip it from the original source again.

So it all depends on what bitrate the WMA files are in. If they are 128, then converting to a higher VBR will do nothing - it may even degrade the quality.

The best method is to rip them in a high quality in the first place if you want to listen to them through a decent stereo or amp. If you'll only use them in a car or a personal MP3 player then I doubt you'll tell the difference above 192 (depending on quality of the headphones).

It's all a balancing act between quality and storage space. I usually rip stuff @ 128 for travelling with my iPod and leave them on VBR (max 192-320) for my stereo.

I use CDex too

 

They are 192bps WMAs. So rip to 192 MP3 then, VBR or not? Only for car use, and whilst it is a BMW with Harmon Kardon, the quality is hardly audiophile.

 

just doing a load of AAC/m4a > MP3 batch conversions, using Nero .

Steve

 

dBpowerAMP is doing the whole 5GB folder now. I can't tell the difference between the WMA and MP3 to be honest.

 

dBpowerAMP is ok but takes its time ripping from CD's. What happens after the 30 day trial?