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What is MP2?

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

What is AU?

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

When Should You Use MP2 vs AU?

Use MP2 When...

MP2 shines in broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video scenarios. The compact file sizes make it ideal for web distribution and daily workflow.

Use AU When...

Choose AU for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound. It delivers archival-grade quality that professionals rely on for critical work.

MP2 vs AU: Key Differences

  • •The core technical difference: MP2 relies on lossy compression whereas AU uses lossless compression.
  • •Converting from MP2 to AU changes compression type: lossless source becomes larger but with full quality preservation.
  • •How transparency is handled: AU supports transparency, so alpha information is preserved during conversion.
  • •File sizes: MP2 files typically range Smaller than uncompressed, 128-384kbps and AU files Small to medium, similar to WAV.
  • •Primary audience: MP2 is built for broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video scenarios, while AU focuses on legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound — pick the format that matches your output requirement.

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.

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.

Common Use Cases for MP2 to AU Conversion

  • Conference call recordings
  • Field recording preservation
  • Music production and mixing
  • Podcast distribution
  • Voice recordings
  • Streaming services

Industry Applications

Medical TranscriptionRadio BroadcastingMusic ProductionPodcastingBroadcastingAudio Engineering

Best Practices for MP2 to AU Conversion

  • →For MP2 to AU: 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
  • →AU 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 MP2 and AU formats in our detailed guide.

Troubleshooting MP2 to AU Conversion

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

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About MP2 and AU

MP2

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

AU

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

Format Comparison

CompressionLossy → Lossless
TransparencySupported
Use CaseConvert from broadcast audio, dvd audio tracks, legacy video to legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound
File Size~Small to medium, similar to WAV after conversion

FAQs

Is converting MP2 to AU free?

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

How long does it take to convert MP2 to AU?

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

What is AU best used for?

AU is ideal for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound. Sun AU, legacy Unix audio format for Sun workstations

Does converting MP2 to AU lose quality?

No, converting MP2 to AU does not cause additional quality loss — AU uses lossless compression. However, any artifacts already present in the original MP2 file will persist in the AU output.

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

AU files are typically 2-5x larger than equivalent MP2 files because AU preserves all pixel data. This is expected and necessary for lossless quality.

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