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Encoding Files for the ContentDepot^®

Once you have created your master sound file, you need to encode the file into the standard ContentDepot format. To get the best audio quality, be sure to create each encoded file from the master sound file. If you are using a batch encoder, multiple conversions can be made in one session using the master sound file. You may use the tools of your choice to encode your files, but you must set the encoding parameters correctly for each ContentDepot file.

The following list gives the appropriate encoding parameters for a broadcast-quality sound file. Specific encoding parameters are not required for audition samples (MP3) submitted to the ContentDepot.

File purpose: Broadcast-Quality Sound File
File format: .mp2 (MPEG 1, Layer II)
Mode: stereo or mono
Bit Rate: 256
Sampling Rate: 44.1 KHz
Word Length: 16 bit
Frame Padding: Must be turned off

If you are not familiar with digital sound file encoding, our online training guides can get you started.


Do I still need to include silence at the beginning and end of each file?

A half second of audio silence at the beginning and end of each segment is required to prevent up and downcutting. Remember to calculate this silence into your total episode length. The ContentDepot will provide a total episode length when all segments have been uploaded that you can use to confirm the proper length.

Encoding Tools

The following encoding tools have been tested with the ContentDepot and can make ContentDepot-compliant files. This information does not constitute an endorsement of any of the organizations or products listed, and all content is subject to change.