Audio decoder - the top 3 downloads
The numerous free audio decoders on the Internet often cause confusion. In this practical tip, we explain which you need and how they differ.
Encoder, decoder and codec - what is it actually?
In digital audio as well as in graphics and video, a signal must be stored according to certain rules. What it transmits must then be interpreted by another device so that the data can be displayed. These are the main tasks of the encoder, decoder and codec.
- An audio encoder creates a compressed file from an audio file or command data, which cannot be played in this form.
- To play this file, you need the appropriate decoder, which creates the complete data set from the reduced data volume.
- A combination of encoder and corresponding decoder is called a codec. A more detailed explanation of codecs can be found in a separate article.
- Known coding methods such as MP3, AC-3 and AAC are based on a patented encoder and a standardized decoder. This means that differences in the quality of the file depend solely on the encoder.
The top 3 downloads for audio decoders
Although most decoders offer the same quality for most audio codecs, they differ in their range of functions. The following three downloads provide you with all the important functions that audio decoders must offer.
- If you only want to decode, download LameXP. This freeware decodes common audio files and saves them in another format if desired.
- If you want to make sure that you can play any common audio format from audio, video and container files on your computer, install the K-Lite Codec Pack. This codec package enables programs such as Windows Media Player to play all the formats it contains.
- With the free program XMedia Recode, audio content can not only be played back, but also converted into any audio and video format.
- A rarity among decoders is the SID decoder for foobar2000. The can play the old Commodore 64 SID files and brings you back the original C64 8-bit sound.
If you want to know which codecs you have on your computer at all, the freeware analysis tool InstalledCodec available on CHIP will help you.