KCØMAX Amateur Radio Pages: WinMorse 2  

Preparing 8-bit WAV files for 16-bit MP3 Conversion 

Winmorse 2 is a terrific free program (you can download here for free from Mark Bellamy), but because of the problem inherent in building proprietary MP3 capability into a freeware program, it will not save files in MP3 format. I wanted to convert WAV files to MP3 to save hard disk space and to be able to place several hours of Morse practice on a single CD. After some searching I have found a free and easy workaround, at least in Windows XP.

Here's how to convert the 8-bit WAV files generated by Winmorse 2 into the 16-bit files required for MP3 conversion: Open your Winmorse 2 generated WAV files in the Windows Sound Recorder program under Programs>Accessories>Entertainment. Once you have the file open, go to File>Properties, then select Format Conversion>Playback formats>Convert Now and then select one of the 16-bit formats from the drop-down window. Be save ro resave the converted file. Then you have a data compatible format for whatever MP3 conversion program you might use. I use MusicMatch Jukebox, by the way, which I find quite versatile. It is not freeware, but comes bundled with many new computer systems, and is relatively cheap to buy as a stand-alone produce. It is a good program for ripping, burning, and organizing your CD collection on your PC.

Tips:

When converting to MP3 format, make sure to select the lowest quality you can live in order to achieve the smallest file size (I use 20 kbps -- fortunately, Morse translates quite well to low quality files. Also, when converting text in WinMorse 2 to WAV files, check FILTER on the dialogue box -- it will greatly improve the quality of the signal. If not, you might notice some harsh squawking tones. 

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