freac
freac converts audio files and can read audio CDs, with control over format and encoding settings.
Developer Robert Kausch
Version 1.1.7 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux
Looking for an alternative to freac?Compare Shutter Encoder, Ocenaudio, Ashampoo Music Studio.Compare alternativesYou can add multiple music files to a queue and convert them into a format that suits your player. For archiving CD audio, a lossless format such as FLAC is a different choice than a small audio copy in a loss format. freac offers various codecs and settings and can process metadata. Recoding an already lossy file does not recover lost information. Therefore, wherever possible, save your original files and make separate copies for a phone, car radio or other device.
Compare freac with alternatives
Choose a converter on the output format and the level of control you need. Bitrate, resolution and encoder together determine file size and quality; a higher setting does not improve any detail that is already missing. For many files a queue and reusable settings are important. Do you especially want to cut recordings, apply effects or convert audio files? Compare the targeted functions you need. A set of audio tools can be enough for a compilation, while a multitrack editor gives more space for assembly and sound editing.
| Software | What can it do? | Platform and licence |
|---|---|---|
| freacYou are viewing this app | You convert audio files and rip audio CDs to supported formats. You use this app for sound, not a full video workflow. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| Shutter EncoderView this alternative | You convert audio and video with many output formats and additional features such as repacking and cutting. This fits with a variety of media files and production formats. | Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source |
| OcenaudioView this alternative | You edit audio files with a waveform view and can pre-listen effects. You mainly work per file instead of in an extensive multitrack production. | Windows, macOS, LinuxFree to use |
| Ashampoo Music StudioView this alternative | You edit, convert and organize audio files and create music compilations. For extended instrument or MIDI production, a DAW is a more targeted choice. | WindowsPaid |
Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.
Who is it for?
You use freac to convert a local music collection or archive your own audio CDs. It fits if you want to choose your own format and quality settings.
Getting started
Install the appropriate version and choose a separate output folder. Then select codec and settings before adding files or an audio CD.
Privacy
Conversion happens locally. If you have CD or album data searched, that function will contact an external data source. Save private recordings outside shared output folders.
Good to know
Converting a lossless file to a lossless format does not restore previously discarded details. For archiving, use your original source where possible.
Please note
Check the output folder and avoid overwriting your source files. A conversion to a higher bitrate doesn't make a bad source any better.
Advantages
- You can convert multiple files in a row.
- You can choose from different audio formats.
- You can process audio CDs and metadata.
Things to consider
- Codec settings require a conscious choice.
- Redefining loss-making encoding can reduce quality.
- CD recognition and metadata may need control.
Download freac
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Provider’s website · www.freac.org
Version history
1.1.7
The update improves codec and metadata support and resolves issues including ALAC and long file paths.
There are also modifications for CD detection and gapless information. Test the tags and playability of a trial file in an existing conversion mode.
Report a new version
Our verdict
freac is suitable if you want to convert audio files in a targeted way and keep the source. A fixed separation between archive and audio copies makes the method clear.
First determine where to play the output and what format is appropriate for it. Check one number for tags, sound level and playability before you convert a whole collection. A listening copy and an archive file have different goals. Save the original source when compressing with loss, so that a selected export setting does not determine your only available quality later. Other tools also play a role in organizing a full library.
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