How To: Download MP3Gain - and Why

How To: Download MP3Gain - and Why.

The purpose of MP3Gain is to equalize the volume of separately compiled MP3 tracks.  We've all had it happen that you burn or copy your favorite tunes, only to discover that each one plays at a different volume.  This problem is solved by MP3Gain, but keep in mind there are other factors which can influence perceived volume.  Read to end of this article for a technical explanation.

MP3Gain is a method to even out differences in recorded levels, not playback levels.  MP3 Gain is freeware, do not pay for a copy.  I trust download.cnet.com, although I do not care for their cluttered screens and their tolerance of fake-ware (similarly named apps displayed beside the read thing).

STEP A: DOWNLOAD A FREE COPY OF MP3 GAIN

1. Go to download.cnet.com and perform a search for the latest copy of MP3Gain.  Be sure you are getting the correct file and click on download.

2. When a modular window pops up offering you the  Run Save Cancel Help menu.  NEVER click on RUN.  It is unwise to the extreme to ever run a program on-line unless you have no other choice.

3. Click on Save, and save the file to a location you can find it again, usually that special folder you created for all downloads.

4. Navigate to your download folder and ensure that MP3 Gain is present.

STEP B:  See my article "How To: Install MP3Gain - and why".

STEP C:  See my article "How To: Use MP3 gain - and why".

OPTIONAL TECHNICAL INFORMATION:

MP3 files are approximately 1/7th the size of corresponding CD Audio files.  This means you can fit hundreds of them on a CD.  The quality is excellent, as the MP3 technology emulates the human ear - it can only hear the loudest sound at any given moment.  That is correct, MP3 is simply a sampling of the loudest sound  44,200 times per second.  It is doubtful anyone could percieve any difference in quality, although some continue to make this claim.  MP3, originally called MPEG 3 layer audio, was developed as a method to send music over telephone lines.  The telephone music failed the test, but the MP3 files are a boon to all music lovers.

Note for file-sharing users: downloaded MP3 music can have a wild variation in recording volumes.  MP3Gain can only compensate for a range of volumes and does not work perfectly in every case.  However, MP3Gain is an excellent application and is useful for "normalizing" the volume of most MP3 music.  If you require more modifications, consider another free program called Audacity from Soundforge.

Yes, this used to be part of one big article, but I'm learning. . . .

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Disclaimer: veryatlantic™ is a non-technical source for advice and entertainment and is not responsible for any damages under any theory. All posts sacrifice technical accuracy for user-friendliness. If unsure, get help. Please feedback errors for correction.

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