Nero AAC Codec (formerly Nero Digital Audio) 1.5.4.0

Overview

The Nero AAC codec is a feature rich, powerful AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) encoder that gives you the ability to convert standard .WAV files to .MP4 files of the highest quality. With a variety of bit rate and compression options, this codec provides the perfect tool for maximizing audio quality and/or compressing audio files to save disk space.

Installation

Being that this codec does not include a graphical user interface (GUI), the installation process is a bit odd for novice users that are used to installing programs with wizard-style setup guides. Instead of the conventional .exe install file, you'll be downloading a compressed archive, which contains the codec itself and a readme.txt file. Fortunately, the attached readme file provides adequate information about how to begin utilizing the codec's various options.

Interface

As mentioned, the codec itself does not come with a user interface, as it is used within the DOS command line of Windows. Thus, it is only recommended for advanced users that are familiar with operating within the command prompt window. Novice users may want to download another software called Nero AAC Encoder, which replaces the commandline functionality with an interface that is easier to use.

Pros

• Offers an amazingly wide array of powerful compression capabilities

• Ultrahigh compression setting gives you the ability to fit the data of 58 CDs onto one disc

• High-end audio encoding option prioritizes sound quality over file size, letting you drastically improve audio quality

• Provides full compatibility with the latest MPEG-4 audio standards, including HE-AAC, HE-AAC version 2, and LC-AAC

• Provides incredibly clear sound quality, regardless of the compression ratio/treatment chosen

• Gives you the ability to store a full audio album in one compressed .MP4 file, while embedding all of the basic features of an audio CD within the file.

• Lets you embed album cover art, booklets, and even lyrics within the compressed file

Cons

• Novice users may find the codec extremely difficult to use, particularly if they have no experience using command prompts. Fortunately, adequate help documentation is included.

Alternatives

Similar codecs that aid in the compression, conversion and bit rate adjustment of audio files include FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), Ogg Vorbis, LAME, WavPack, and Apple Lossless. However, the Nero AAC audio codec is considered to be the industry standard, and is therefore preferred over the aforementioned competitors.

Conclusion

This codec gives you the ability to create high-quality MP4 files that take up approximately 50% less space than MP3 counterparts, letting you fit more files onto your portable playback devices and consume less space on your hard drive for your media library. In addition, it gives you the ability to convert standard .WAV files to MPEG-4 and 3GPP files that provide crystal-clear sound quality.