stereo vs. joint stereo

[June]

Can someone explain the differences between encoding an .mp3 in 'joint stereo' versus 'stereo'. I'm assuming the 'joint stereo' is some sort of compromise that saves bandwidth ?

Thanks !

[Unregistered]

Yes it saves bandwidth: stereo encodes each channel seperately, while joint stereo looks which sounds are in both channels. So it differs in bandwidth and file size.

[totalXSive]

Actually that's not technically true. A Stereo and Joint Stereo file will be the same size, but the Joint Stereo file will be better quality, if you are encoding at 192Kbps or less using MP3 (Lame).

It's a good idea to have it enabled

[June]

Thanks everyone !

[MODatic]

I have a more detailed guide detailing Joint Stereo here. (look at the bottom)