LAME 3.98.2 VBR bitrate test, all -V settings in 0.5 step increments Options

[Alex B]

Over three years ago I tested the LAME 3.97b1 VBR bitrates (link). For that test I gathered a set of 25 various "reference" tracks. The tracks were specifically selected so that they could more or less represent an average large media library of pop/rock/jazz etc genres. Since then the same set has served well in many occasions. During the preparations of the new public 128 kbps VBR MP3 listening test I gathered another set of classical tracks.

Now I have tested all LAME 3.98.2 VBR settings (in 0.5 step increments) using these two reference sets. For this test I encoded 1050 MP3 files (21x50). I analyzed the files with EncSpot Pro v.2.1 and prosessed the exported data with Excel.

Here are the results:

Some general details: (the frequency values are kHz)


Bitrates "Various":


Bitrates "Classical":


Average Bitrates:




The test tracks:


EDIT:
The classical track #4 has a slightly incorrect name in the table. It should be "Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra - Mahler, Symphony No 8, 2. Ewiger Wonnebrand".

The source data is available here: http://www.hydrogenaudio.org/forums/index....st&p=601002 (Excel sheet)

This post has been edited by Alex B: Dec 3 2008, 11:03

[skelly831]

Great info guys! the ~60kbps savings with -Y are impressive, thanks for taking the time to make these tests