Mp3 Format:
Mp3 is a universal audio format, playable on iPods, computers, media players and mobile phones. Mp3 format is native to most media library programs, such as iTunes.
To achieve smaller file sizes for storage, and hence download bandwidth, the audio content is compressed using some pretty wizzo data algorithms. The result is a filesize about 20% of full CD-quality audio, but you’d be hard pressed to notice the difference unless you’re an audiophile. Typically, one of our albums will have a total file size of 90Mb.
Our albums are generally encoded at around 192kbps, often employing variable bit rate encoding (VBR) to preserve additional detail (dependent upon program content).
Our mp3 files are free of any DRM (digital rights management), so you can transfer them to any of your media technology. You’ve paid for them, they’re yours for your “Personal Use” only, without restriction.
If you are needing a sound for a project or for commercial use, please click here for licensing information.
FLAC Format:
OK, you’re an audiophile. You want the best audio quality, at full CD resolution.
FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is a LOSSLESS compressed audio format. Typically, file sizes of around 60% are achieved without any degradation or loss of audio quality from the source files at the CD standard of 16bit/44.1kHz.
Obviously the file sizes are larger than for the mp3 version – usually around 300-400Mb for an album.
In addition, you’ll need to know what to do with the files once you’ve downloaded them. In most cases you’ll want to decode the files to wav or aiff, either to import into programs like iTunes, or burn to CD-R. Some programs will play flac files natively like Media Monkey.
There is a lot of information about flac online (eg: http://flac.sourceforge.net/)
Audio CD’s
If you’re not that keen on burning your own CD-R’s then ordering one of our Audio CD’s is the perfect answer!
We produce, print and ship all of our Audio CD’s right from the Sounds by Knight studio. Each CD comes with a full color insert in a slim jewel case… making it a perfect addition to your NatureScapes CD collection. Our CD’s are recorded at 16bit/44.1kHz and meet Red Book Compact Disk Standards… which means they will play in any standard CD player whether it be your car, home or computer.
We ship all of our CD’s USPS Media Mail which usually takes 3 to 7 days to arrive once it leaves our studio. Cost it a flat $4.95 for shipping no matter how may CD’s you order.