Problem with converting FLAC to VBR

MP3_Junkie

I have had a problem using Switch Plus on my Mac mini. I was trying to convert some FLAC files to MP3 V0 (variable bit rate, highest quality, minimum bit rate 160, maximum bit rate 320). The result came back as a 128 kbps CBR (constant bit rate). Curiously, the resulting mp3 file was as almost as large as you would expect from a 320 kbps CBR mp3.

I really don't know what to think, but has anyone tried this type of conversion with Switch Plus on a Mac? Any suggestions?

borate

This may be a limitation of the codec. Test a different one.

File a report with NCH.

MP3_Junkie

I have filed a report through technical support online.

I don't see any options in Switch Plus for a different codec. The one they used was MPEG1 Layer III. If you know a way of changing the codec, please share. If so, what codec should I choose?

In any case, I appreciate the advice.

OK, I found out that the codec is X Lossless Decoder 20240310. MPEG1 Layer III is the format, so I misstated in my earlier reply.

I know that Audacity uses LAME 3.10, and it does not have this problem. Is there a way to change to LAME 3.10 in Switch Plus (version 3.07, which I updated to today)?

borate

NCH support has better insight on the VBR/CBR issue. As for the Lame encoder, here's some AI info, which may not be totally accurate.

MP3_Junkie

Thanks, borate, for the info. I think your link was talking about the Windows version. I am using the Mac version, and it uses the codec I mentioned above: X Lossless Decoder 20240310.

As I said, Audacity for macOS uses the codec LAME 3.10, and it does not have the CBR/VBR issue that Switch Plus for macOS does. That's why I was hoping I had the option to change codecs in Switch Plus for macOS, but apparently I cannot do that.

If someone from the tech support help desk reads this, perhaps they can try LAME in a test. One can only hope! 😀