Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

[touff-ray]

I would like to compare the length of a file A.wma that has been encoded to a file B.mp3 (for example). So, I will use the method called get_AudioProperties (C#) on those files.

But I am wondering : how reliable is this method ? What is the error margin, depending on the codec ?

[Spoon]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Depends on encoder used, mp3 can have varying lengths displayed if a VBR encoder is used and hte correct VBR header is not written to the file.

[touff-ray]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

And if all the files I want to compare are converted using dBpoweramp ?

[Spoon]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Should be almost sample accurate (our mp3 Lame encoding and decoding is), not 100% of WMA, I think it is gapless, but as said not 100% as there are different codecs within WMA.

[touff-ray]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Thank you for all your answers
And sorry for my weird questions

[touff-ray]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Another question comes to my mind : is it possible to get a more precise duration than in seconds with the "get_AudioProperties" method ?

[Spoon]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Yes run dBpoweramp configuration and set the reference options for for length to one of the more accurate ones.

[touff-ray]

Re: Retrieving the length of a file encoded with different codecs

Thanks