Creating MP3 files

MP3 is a digital music format which allows audio tracks to be reduced to around a tenth of their normal size without a significant loss of quality.

Recording your audio

There are many ways you can record your demo depending on your what equipment you have available.

The most common way to create an audio file is to record it directly onto a computer using one of the many free editing packages available, or which come as part of your normal operating system. (see links below).

To do this you would need a microphone, which can either be externally plugged in to the computer, or in the case of newer computers may already be built in.

You can also record directly onto a mini disc, tape or CD, which you then need to download onto your computer to upload via our online form.

Editing your audio

Using one of the many freely available audio editing packages will allow you to edit your audio and insert your music tracks.

** Please note, you do not need to edit your demo tape if you are happy with your original recording. We are not looking for the best quality demo, we are looking for the best presenters.

Converting to MP3

A lot of audio packages will have the option of saving as a MP3 file as standard. If you choose File > Save As, there will usually be an option of saving as a MP3 file type.

If you are not using an audio package you can still convert your audio file. Choose from one of the free packages available which will allow you to input your audio and convert it to MP3.

Links

MP3-converter.com
A range of MP3 converters free to download which convert .wav files to MP3

Acez All Audio Converter
Convert audio files into MP3's from up to 10 different formats. Available as a free trial download

Wavpad
Free audio editing software

Adobe Audition
Adobe's audio editing package, available as a free trial download

Free Downloads Centre
A range of free / shareware audio conversion packages

Bristol City Libraries
Find a library near you, where you can get free computer and internet use to enter the scheme

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