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What is AU?

Sun AU is the native audio format for Sun Microsystems workstations, using simple mu-law encoding or uncompressed PCM.

What is MP2?

MPEG Layer II (MP2) is an audio codec standard in broadcast and DVD, offering robust compression for professional use.

When Should You Use AU vs MP2?

Use AU When...

AU is built for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound. Think of it as the perfectionist — every pixel, every sample, preserved exactly as intended.

Use MP2 When...

For broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video, nothing beats MP2. It hits the sweet spot between visual quality and file size, making it the default choice for millions.

AU vs MP2: Key Differences

  • •The core technical difference: AU relies on lossless compression whereas MP2 uses lossy compression.
  • •Moving from AU (lossy) to MP2 (lossy) means the output file will be significantly smaller — but at the cost of some visual fidelity.
  • •Alpha channel support: MP2 lacks transparency support, so semi-transparent pixels from the source will be lost.
  • •Storage footprint: Small to medium, similar to WAV for AU vs Smaller than uncompressed, 128-384kbps for MP2.
  • •Primary audience: AU is built for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound scenarios, while MP2 focuses on broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video — pick the format that matches your output requirement.

Advantages of AU

  • ✓AU uses lossless compression tailored for Legacy Unix audio, Sun workstation sound.
  • ✓AU is supported natively on virtually every device, browser, and operating system.
  • ✓AU files are bit-for-bit perfect, preserving every pixel and sample for professional work.
  • ✓AU integrates seamlessly with all major creative tools and workflows.

Advantages of MP2

  • ✓MP2 uses lossy compression tailored for Broadcast audio, DVD audio tracks, legacy video.
  • ✓MP2 is supported natively on virtually every device, browser, and operating system.
  • ✓MP2 files are compact and quick to transfer, even over slow connections.
  • ✓MP2 integrates seamlessly with all major creative tools and workflows.

Common Use Cases for AU to MP2 Conversion

  • Radio commercials
  • Guided meditation recordings
  • Audiovisual installation
  • Music education
  • Conference call recordings
  • Field recording preservation

Industry Applications

Audiobook PublishingMusic StreamingLive SoundForensic AudioMedical TranscriptionRadio Broadcasting

Best Practices for AU to MP2 Conversion

  • →For AU to MP2: match the sample rate and bit depth to your delivery platform — 44.1 kHz / 16-bit is the standard for music
  • →Apply loudness normalization (LUFS) before conversion to ensure consistent volume across your audio library
  • →MP2 prioritizes quality — ensure your storage can accommodate the resulting file sizes
  • →Check that metadata tags (artist, album, track number) survive the conversion
  • →Convert a short segment first to verify quality at your chosen bitrate
  • →Keep a lossless master copy in case you need to re-encode for a different platform

Related Article

Video Compression Guide: Reduce File Size Without Losing Quality

Learn more about AU and MP2 formats in our detailed guide.

Troubleshooting AU to MP2 Conversion

  • !MP2 audio quality degraded vs AU → use a higher bitrate (at least 256 kbps for music)
  • !MP2 file won't play on your device → check format compatibility with your player or platform
  • !Metadata (artist, album, title) lost after AU to MP2 conversion → some formats like MP2 may not support ID3 tags
  • !Volume changed after converting AU to MP2 → normalize audio levels before conversion for consistent playback

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About AU and MP2

AU

AU (AU audio) - Sun AU, legacy Unix audio format for Sun workstations. Best for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound.

MP2

MP2 (MP2 audio) - MPEG Layer II, audio codec used in broadcast and DVD. Ideal for broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video.

Format Comparison

CompressionLossless → Lossy
TransparencyN/A
Use CaseConvert from legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound to broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video
File Size~Smaller than uncompressed, 128-384kbps after conversion

FAQs

Is converting AU to MP2 free?

Yes, GoConvertFile offers free conversion of AU to MP2 for files up to 100MB. No registration required.

How long does it take to convert AU to MP2?

Most AU to MP2 conversions complete within seconds for standard-sized files. Larger files may take longer depending on the conversion complexity.

What is MP2 best used for?

MP2 is ideal for broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video. MPEG Layer II, audio codec used in broadcast and DVD

Does converting AU to MP2 lose quality?

Yes, converting AU to MP2 uses lossy compression, which reduces file size by discarding some visual data. Set quality to 85-95% for a good balance of quality and file size.

What file size should I expect after converting AU to MP2?

MP2 files are typically 50-80% smaller than AU files because MP2 uses efficient lossy compression. The exact reduction depends on quality settings.

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