Web Design in a Nutshell, 3rd Edition

Choosing an Audio Format

Which audio format or system you choose depends on your communication goals, the scale of your site, and your budget. Table 33-1 provides suggestions for some common scenarios. Consider them only as starting points for researching the solution that best meets your needs.

Table 33-1. Suggested audio formats

Audio needs	Suggested formats
Short voice greetings	QuickTime (via regular HTTP server), MP3, AAC
Narration (news broadcasts, interviews, and other voice-only content)	Streaming solutions such as RealAudio, Windows Media, or QuickTime for large audiences; RealAudio or QuickTime via HTTP server for limited traffic and few simultaneous listeners
Background music (ambient sound loops)	MIDI, WAV
Short interactive sound effects (such as button rollover and transition sounds)	Flash
Music samples for a limited audience	MP3, AAC, RealMedia, or QuickTime via HTTP server
Music samples for a large-scale site with heavy traffic	Complete streaming solution, such as Real Helix or Windows Streaming Media
Radio-style music broadcasting	Real Helix, streaming MP3s (via a streaming server such as SHOUTcast), Windows Media System
Distribution and sale of CD-quality audio	MP3, AAC
Live broadcasting	Real Helix, QuickTime, Windows Media System
Musical e-greeting card	Flash, MIDI or WAV background sound
Specialized audio applications (such as virtual CD players, mixers, etc.)	Flash, QuickTime