TABLE OF CONTENTS This section takes you through a typical audio encoding session with Windows Media Encoder 9 Series. If you have not done so already, download and install the encoder now, as described in Chapter 1, Windows Media Series Quick Start.
The following procedures assume you have an optimized audio file in WAV format stored on your local computer hard drive. For the purposes of simplicity, the file is a voice-only file, but the basic procedures can be applied to music or voice and music combined. Most of the differences occur during the selection of codecs.
Off to see the Wizards
Windows Media Encoder 9 Series features several wizards to walk you through a number of common encoding situations. Each wizard selects the correct codecs and options for you, and several functions are similar across wizards. This chapter focuses on the "Convert a file" wizard, which encodes a source file for on-demand delivery. Here's a brief explanation of the other wizards' purposes and functions.
Custom Session: You set all parameters for your encoding session by hand, leaving nothing to the wizard. Not recommended for beginners.
Broadcast a live event: Use this wizard if you are streaming audio or video live from a camera or other video device. The encoder takes the source feed and converts it to a live encoded stream for distribution. (See Chapter 10 for more on live encoding.)
Capture audio or video: This wizard lets you...
