Help
Why do I have to upload MP3 files?
For the time being, we only accept MP3 formatted files as uploads.
The reason for this is twofold. First, we would like to make the uploading experience as quick and easy as possible for our users. MP3 files are more than 10 times smaller than many raw file formats, especially those popular with Nature Recordists like yourself. Second are bandwidth and storage considerations. Uploading smaller files reduces the cost necessary to run this site.
You are still free to encode and upload your MP3 files at any bit rate you would like. By encoding your source files in MP3 format, you save upload and transcode time, as well as help to reduce the costs of bandwidth for this service without sacrificing audio quality.
How do I encode MP3 files?
I prefer to use iTunes which is available for Mac and Windows. A more comprehensive list of applications can be found here Additionally, a great many professional recording software packages now support MP3 export. Please consult the manufacturer of your particular software for details.
To encode from iTunes, first add the file you want to encode to your library by dragging it onto the iTunes window. Then from the "Advanced" dropdown menu, select "Convert Selection to MP3". This will then convert the file you have selected to MP3. After encoding, you may click on the encoded file in the iTunes browser and drag it to a place that is easy to find, like your Desktop.
MP3 files can be encoded at a number of different bit rates, from about 16 kbps to 320 kbps. It is also possible to encode files in a variable bit rate (VBR). The higher the bit rate, the higher the audio quality. For the best audio quality, files should be encoded either with a VBR or at bit rates above 192 kbps.
Licensing
The files you upload are yours. How others use them is your choice. By default, when you upload files, they are marked as "All Rights Reserved", meaning that others may only listen to your recording.
If you would like to allow others to use your recordings in various ways, you may choose a form of Creative Commons license, a widely used and accepted license for creative works. From the Creative Commons website:
Creative Commons defines the spectrum of possibilities between full copyright — all rights reserved — and the public domain — no rights reserved. Our licenses help you keep your copyright while inviting certain uses of your work — a 'some rights reserved' copyright.
For the specifics and definitions of each of the licenses, please refer to this document.
Still need help?
Please feel free to contact us with your questions.