Lame 3.98

[Furox]

I updated the old lame_enc.dll to the newest final version (3.98) as the included one in RC2 was 3.97b!?
Perhaps it finds a way into the next MP release or at least to some users who often import CDs in MP

(attached lame_enc.dll from rarewares)

[hwahrmann]

upgraded. will be available in RC3.
thanks for pointing us to it

[rtv]

3.97b has been recommended for years by the "gold ears" over at hydrogenaudio. Helmut did you adapt the encoding params to the new version?

[Spragleknas]

Well ...

Recommended encoder compiles and source code

Unless noted otherwise, the recommended LAME compile for optimal quality is always the latest stable version.

It is suggested that the compiles available here be used with the recommended encoder settings you can find below.

Source: LAME - Hydrogenaudio Knowledgebase

Discussion: http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/...pic=64669&hl=#

[Furox]

From hydrogenaudio wiki:

The --vbr-new switch enables the new VBR mode (no longer needed with LAME 3.98, as it is now the default VBR mode). In terms of quality, --vbr-new appears to be better than the old model, but reports of artifacts when using the new model do exist. Despite these possible issues, --vbr-new is currently recommended over the default VBR mode due to both the speed and quality increases afforded by the new algorithm.

So the "fast mode" checkbox in the encoder settings becomes obsolete if 3.98 is in use (also tested myself) and the "less quality" remark might be outdated, too.