Configuring Multimedia Apps

Configuring Multimedia Applications

As much as I like playing CDs while working away in Linux, I have to admit to being an mp3 freak. I love the ability to create mood-driven playlists. Really, I enjoy the process of converting files from their original format to mp3. The reason for that enjoyment is quite simple - it’s lame.

lame is yet another cute Linux recursive acronym - “Lame Ain’t an MP3 Encoder.” Bah. It’s exactly that and is one of the best going for Linux. Flexibility in every aspect of its use makes it an invaluable tool for multimedia-lovin’ Penguins.

lame is, of course, a command-line tool. As such, it takes some reading and bravery in order to get the most from its use. If you don’t currently have lame installed on your system, you can download it here. Be warned - it’s source code that needs compiling. It’s an easy process, though, and well worth the result.

The hallmark of lame is GPSYCHO, the GPL’d psycho-acoustic and noise shaping model. This allows you to encode your mp3s with complex algorithms that more closely match how your ear hears and your brain interprets the sounds. Through rigorous testing and development, GPSYCHO has improved considerably from version to version. The current version of lame easily produces the best quality, most lifelike mp3s going.

Another useful element of lame lies in the ability to create Variable Bitrate (VBR) files. If you’ve worked with mp3s in the past, you know that, in most cases, you pick a bitrate and stick with it. Most are encoded at 128 Kb, though you can find many more today at 160 than in months or years past. lame allows you to use the appropriate bit rate “in the moment.” That is, if 160 will encode a particular passage more clearly than 128, 160 is used. The changes are made on the fly during the encoding process. You can also determine a range of bitrates within this variable encoding scheme. The overall effect is to increase the quality of mp3 files while maintaining a manageable file size.

The options for using lame are many. The best description of these commands and their proper use is found in the lame usage documentation. It’s a fairly exhaustive read. However, like so much else in Linux, taking the time to familiarize yourself with the concepts and commands will make your lame use productive and broaden your knowledge of Linux in general. With a little effort, you’ll also find some front end programs for lame that will make your use easier.

It’s a funny thought … some of the best mp3s I’ve heard were created with a really lame program.