LAME MP3 Encoder 3.99.5

LAME MP3 Encoder Editor's Review

LAME is a software codec designed to encode audio data in the MP3 format. LAME is one of the most highly-regarded MP3 encoders, capable of converting audio data to the lossy MP3 format with minimal decline in quality. LAME is a command-line program but there are various separate front ends that offer a GUI (graphical user interface).

The source code for LAME is free, licensed under the LGPL (the GNU Lesser General Public License, meaning that anyone can copy and share LAME); however, LAME uses certain proprietary technologies which aren't licensed as freeware so a compiled version of LAME could be in violation of those patents. Developers who use LAME in their technologies may need to obtain a patents license.

Pros: Free, produces high-quality MP3s

Cons: Command-line operated, requires a separate GUI.

Conclusion: Still one of the best free MP3 encoders around.