Concerning the Podbook (m4b) Format For Podfics

[cybel]

This is an update of a post I originally made in April '08.

1) Because podbooks are my fannish thing and curiosity is a fault of mine, I'd like to ask that if you, too, love the m4b format, please add 'podbooks' as an interest on your journal profile page.

2) What exactly is a podbook? A podbook (fannish terminology for audiobook or m4b) is a

Comments

[inteligrrl]

Personally, I'd just like to express my gratitude for your willingness to podbook so many stories. I much prefer that format to mp3, and I've loved having access to so many podbooks.

[cybel]

Thank you. That's lovely to hear: though it's more like compulsion than willingness, really. :-)

[maryaminx]

Done! Considering just how many of these things I tote around on my ipod, the smaller size is invaluable.

There is a free software for mp3->m4b on the PC but it sucks and the file size is actually LARGER than the original.

[cybel]

Ah. How strange it would do that since the standard for pro audiobooks is 32 kbps. I use 64 kbps as a compromise for those fans who find 32 to sound tinny.

One of the things I love about Audiobook Builder is all the options it gives you, including bitrate, mono or stereo, maximum length per part, etc.

[eosrose]

I've noticed that the file size on that program can be larger when you're inserting music into the podfics (must be the stereo tracks). Can I suggest Chapter and Verse for PC? I just found it last night and while it's not as easy to use as the MP3 to iPod Audiobook Converter, it does have more features, such as being able to insert more complete metadata and chapter markers. You can adjust the output settings, too, which can result in some pretty small files depending on the level of sound quality you want.

[maryaminx]

ooh, thanks for that! i'll check it out!

[elsewhere_kels]

I use audiobook builder too! It's a great program, isn't it? =)

*Adds 'Podbooks' as an interest*

[cybel]

It's the best! No one with a Mac needs anything else.

Thanks for adding podbooks to your interests. :-)

[malnpudl]

Interest added. And once again (and again and again), thank you so much for all your work! I lurrrrrrrrrve your podbooks. <3

[cybel]

And I lurrrrrrve that you lurrrrrrve my podbooks. :-)

[andeincascade]

You are such a gift. Thank you very kindly. ♥

[cybel]

*blush*