I'm currently working on my new DJ website and I'd like to ZIP my MP3's to reduce file size and so that the user doesn't have to right-click and save target as.

But, does zipping an MP3 reduce the quality at all since it reduces the file size?

Also, should I have 320 or 192 mp3's for download - what would you prefer as a listener?

Cheers

No, it doesn't reduce the quality but since MP3 is already a compressed format there's not really any point in compressing it any further. You might actually end up increasing the filesize.

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quote:

Originally posted by Mr.Mystery No, it doesn't reduce the quality but since MP3 is already a compressed format there's not really any point in compressing it any further. You might actually end up increasing the filesize.

Ok, I understand what you're saying but it's mainly so that when people click on "Download", it will actually start downloading instead of it starting to buffer and stream through their browser.

At least I now know that it wont affect the quality, thanks.

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::::: DjTrig.Com :::::
Afterward - July 2009 Mix

it all depends on how they have their computer setup.

i prefer to have the mp3 itself up, that way i can stream or download.

putting up the zip annoys me, because then i have to wait till the whole thing is downloaded before i can start listening.

don't neccesarily assume that because it plays inline in your browser, it will do that for everyone.

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besides right-click->save as... should be pretty common knowledge

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dtb.planet.ee <-- A couple of my mix cd-s (Deep House & Progressive with a trancy touch

Yeah, I wouldn't bother zipping if I were you - what if people WANT to stream it?

Using a little bit of PHP or ASP it IS possible to force a file to download when clicking on a link, but it's not really recommended in terms of accessibility and user flexibility.

You're much better off having a note on the page near the link telling people to Right Click -> Save Target As if they want to download it.

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Stu Cox |

I hate zipped mp3's. How about you just add a note telling internet newbies (do they still exist?) to right click and save target as.

quote:

Originally posted by Stu Cox Yeah, I wouldn't bother zipping if I were you - what if people WANT to stream it? Using a little bit of PHP or ASP it IS possible to force a file to download when clicking on a link, but it's not really recommended in terms of accessibility and user flexibility. You're much better off having a note on the page near the link telling people to Right Click -> Save Target As if they want to download it.

Just out of interest could you explain how? I am studying PHP at the moment and would be interested to hear how you would code this?

quote:

Originally posted by Lunar Phase 7 Just out of interest could you explain how? I am studying PHP at the moment and would be interested to hear how you would code this?

This might be of help...

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d&b session 20090519
My take on... (various mixes planned, updated when I can be arsed)

+1

dont zip it. u force me to then unzip it...extra step i don't need...

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PATRICK KROFT
PatrickKroft.com ~ DI.fm Tribal House DJ ~ Last.fm Tribal House

Ok, thanks for the replies guys. Looks like I'll have to re-upload my mixes as mp3 then...

.. I never realised that so many people were against zips.

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::::: DjTrig.Com :::::
Afterward - July 2009 Mix

To answer your other question - I prefer 192kbps for DJ mixes, and 320kbps for productions.

And I agree with everyone else, don't zip it

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-Jon
www.DJjoncaserta.com - - mixes and whatnot (melodic progressive house and trance)