Glossary

Basic Digital Audio Terms You Need to Know

MP3 stands for MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3. MP3 files are compression files that can compress CD-quality files to about 10 times smaller than their original size by eliminating certain sound frequencies that can't be heard by the human ear. As a result, MP3 files are better suited for downloading or streaming.

WAV is the native format for storing the actual sound in a wave pattern within the Windows environment. When you hear people refer to "CD quality" sound, they are referring to the WAV format. WAVs require no additional software to play; however, compared to MP3s they are very bulky,and therefore they are not at all well suited for downloading or streaming.

AIFF stands for Audio Interchange File Format. AIIF is the native format for sound within the Macintosh environment.

ID3 Tags are song information includes that are attached to an MP3 file, including title, artist name, album info, lyrics and pictures.

Compressed is a method used to store audio files in a format that requires less space than usual. Compression files are particularly useful in communications because they enable devices (MP3 players, RealPlayer, etc.) to download or stream the same amount of data in fewer bits.

Bitrate is the richness of quality and detail an encoder or player processes per second.

Downloading is the process of copying a high-quality audio file from an online service to your own computer for the purpose of burning onto a CD or sharing with a friend. Note: The Industry Resource does NOT provide downloads of your song(s) to members.

Streaming is a technique for transferring data such that it can be processed as an instantaneous, steady, and continuous stream. Streaming allows you to listen to audio files before the entire file has been transmitted and can not be saved on a hard drive. Note: The Industry Resource streams music content so your song(s) are delivered in a secure, stable environment, reducing the possibility of piracy.