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Intro:
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| Encoding speed depends on the power of your computer. Some encoders will include the actual track title on the MP3 file, but others will just assign a number. To help you keep your MP3 files in order, you may want to change the numbered titles to song names (just remember to keep the ".mp3" at the end of each file name). |
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One of the attractions of MP3s--as opposed to many other audio formats--is the ease with which you can create audio files from your own CD collection. Here's how it's done: Install a ripper/encoder. A CD ripper is shorthand for a program that extracts (or rips) music tracks from a CD onto your hard drive. After this is done, the encoder converts the file to the MP3 format. You can download these programs off the web separately, but these days you'll find "all-in-one" software (usually just called an encoder) that does both jobs automatically. To find and download a ripper/encoder, use the same methods as you did with the MP3 player: Try typing "MP3 encoder" into your search engine to find and choose an encoder, download it onto your hard drive, then review the documentation carefully (and don't forget to register if necessary!). Encode the file. Different encoders will have different ways of converting your CD tracks. However, you'll usually follow these basic steps: Put the CD into your disk drive--the CD's icon should appear on your desktop. Next, open the encoder on your hard drive and follow the documentation instructions for selecting and encoding the tracks. Some encoders use the drag and drop method (drag the CD icon onto the encoder icon, or open the CD on your desktop and drag the particular tracks), but most will have a button for navigating to the CD, at which point you can select the entire album or certain songs for encoding. You can also select where you want your tracks saved as MP3s, and what player you want to use when you play the files. With your songs stored on your computer, a new world of music enjoyment opens up (no more misplaced CDs, to start with). Want to hear your MP3s away from the computer? Try a portable MP3 player. Interested in listening to MP3 playlist mixes on your stereo? A CD burner--hardware that will record your MP3s onto a blank CD--will do just that. With the MP3 revolution growing at an amazing rate, more innovations are surely on the way, so get in on the ground floor and enjoy the ride. -end- 
All steps at once (printable version) |
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Convert CDs into MP3 files (optional)
