FAQ

From Hydrogenaudio Knowledgebase
Revision as of 23:40, 24 March 2006 by Pepoluan (talk | contribs)

This is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. The questions are grouped according to their categories, then sorted alphabetically.

Please note that this FAQ provides very short answers; explore the links to get deeper information.


General Hydrogenaudio Etiquette

Why do you stress blind listening / ABX tests so much?
Why TOS #8?
Short Answer: The usual "audiophile" speak of non-audio related terms which are completely subjective and open to redefinition on a whim, are useless for any sort of progression in discussion.
For a deeper, thoughtful answer, see this thread.


General Audio Compression

Can I increase quality by converting a lossy compressed file to a higher-bitrate lossy compressed file?
Short Answer: This is called Transcoding, and the answer is no.


Does encoding preserves surround info?
Short Answer: Depends. MP3 destroys surround sound information. Go see the page on lossy encoding.
In addition, check the following links:


What is the best audio format?
Short Answer: Depends on your needs.
For a detailed explanation, see Audio format guide.


Why do encoded files get clipped when the original WAVs are not clipped?
Short answer:
  1. Quantization errors may cause the signal to clip, and
  2. Gibbs phenomenon through the limitation of bandwidth may cause the signal to clip.
Check the following links for more details:


What is an ABX blind test?
Go see ABX
In addition, check the following links:


What is "transparency"?
Go see transparency


Why not use graphs / frequency analysis to compare codecs?
Nothing can be said about quality or audible difference by looking at pictures, because a lossy encoder works by removing as much inaudible sounds as possible. A lack of frequencies can well mean that some audible parts are missing (bad work, or too low setting), or that the encoder managed a very good compression, removing a lot of useless things.
In addition, check the following links:


MP3-related

What is MP3Gain? How do I use it? Is it the same as ReplayGain, but for MP3 only?
Go check this page.


Why is joint stereo better than pure stereo ?
You better start here (thread on the HA Forums)


CD-Drives

How do I test my drive's C2 accuracy?
Visit this page.