XRECODE II - Audio Converter
Audio File Conversion with XRECODE II
Given the wide array of portable audio devices and music software available, obtaining the correct file formats can sometimes prove challenging. We will now examine XRECODE II, a tool capable of converting nearly any audio file type to another.
To understand the breadth of its capabilities, consider this description from the developer’s website… xrecode II functions as both a converter and audio-grabber, facilitating conversions from formats such as mp3, mp2, wma, aiff, amr, ogg, flac, ape, cue, ac3, wv, mpc, mid, cue, tta, tak, wav, dts, m4a, m4b, mp4, ra, rm, aac, avi, mpg, vob, mkv, flv, swf, mov, ofr, wmv, divx, m4v, spx, 3gp, 3g2, m2v, m4v, ts, m2ts, adts, shn, tak, xm, mod, s3m, it, mtm, umx to m4a, alac, ape, flac, mp3, mp4 (utilizing NeroAAC), ogg, raw, wav, wma, WavPack, mpc, mp2, Speex, ofr, ac3, aiff, and Shorten formats.
Command line parameters are also supported. The installation process is uncomplicated and straightforward. However, it’s advisable to consider adding the application to the Send to Menu within the context menu for convenient access.
Ripping a CD to FLAC Format
This utility demonstrates a light footprint on system resources and features a clean, intuitive interface.
Let's explore the process of ripping a CD into the FLAC format. Upon inserting the CD and loading the tracks into XRECODE, you will need to retrieve metadata from one of four available databases.
The software provides support for embedding cover art, and allows for image resizing to suit your preferences.
Manual editing of the metadata is also readily available if needed.
A noteworthy feature is the inclusion of Replay Gain, a technology designed for volume level normalization. Performing an analysis of the disc using Replay Gain before initiating the ripping process is recommended.
When the ripping or conversion process is initiated, systems equipped with a dual-core processor will leverage both cores for accelerated processing speeds.
Format Settings and Profiles
Each format offers a dedicated wrench icon, granting access to customizable settings.
Extensive settings are available for MP3 files, including options for both Constant and Variable bitrates. Playlist creation during file conversion is easily enabled with a simple checkbox.
This illustrates the range of settings available for the FLAC format.
The application allows for the saving of custom profile settings, streamlining future conversions.
Additional Features
If selected during installation, complete albums or individual songs can be sent directly to XRECODE II for conversion via the context menu.
XRECODE II supports multiple languages, including English, French, Japanese, Polish, Russian, Hungarian, Italian, Spanish, Spanish Traditional, Swedish, Brazilian Portuguese, German, Finnish, Bulgarian, and Czech.
XRECODE II is distributed as free and fully functional shareware. A registration fee of $15 is required to eliminate the occasional nag dialog box that appears upon launch. However, this dialog is brief, appearing for only a few seconds, unlike some more intrusive shareware applications.
If you require a user-friendly and versatile audio conversion utility capable of handling a wide variety of file types, XRECODE II is certainly worth investigating. Download XRECODE II