FAQ
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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:
- Experience of a HA Member with Rear Channel on the HA Forums
- 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:
- Quantization errors may cause the signal to clip, and
- 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:
- Blind Listening Test Explanation on the HA Forums
- 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:
- Lossy encoding
- Lossless encoding
- frequency analysis
- Confusion on CBR & VBR thread on the HA Forums
- ... and this thread for a more sarcastic discussion.
- 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.
This article is a stub. You can help the Hydrogenaudio Knowledgebase by expanding it.