Developer: CH3
OS: Win 95/98/NT/ME/2000
Installed Size:
Function: Ripping, Encoding, Decoding, Burning

Other products you may be interested in:

• MP3 to WAVE Converter
• Music Match Jukebox
• MP3 CD Burner
• Media Jukebox

I hate it when corporate monsters put out a good program.  As much as I don't like proprietary formats, intrusive software, or programs with huge install sizes, I have to give credit where credit is due.

Real Jukebox Basic is a good program, as long as you are willing to try Real Audio format instead of MP3.  This freeware version of the Plus program only allows you to make MP3s at 96kbps maximum quality with an old version of the Xing encoder.  The result is very audible flanging in the produced files.  However, encoding with Real Audio 8 at 132kbps is another story.  The files were crisp and clear with a proper balance between instruments.  You could hear fills, background strings and effects very clearly.  

For burning, Real Jukebox Basic uses Roxio's CD Creator at ultra slow speeds to give users a taste of what they could have if they fork over the cash.  I think I will have to leave the CD burner on overnight before I can take a listen to the CD Jukebox Basic is creating.

The program comes with a ton of other features you can explore for yourself.  The Plus version includes optimized MP3 encoding with a better Xing encoder and higher bitrates available.  If playing files and encoding in Real Audio is the thing, download this program.  If you want quality MP3 audio for free, time to look elsewhere.

Try Real Jukebox Basic