About Sample Rates
The sample rate provides a reference to which all audio is synchronized, and is roughly
twice the highest frequency you want a system to be able to reproduce or record. For
example, a sample rate of 44.1kHz was chosen for the CD because half of that is in
most cases the upper limit of human hearing. However, other sample rates are
commonly in use, and can be selected in RIP.
44.1kHz:
The most common sample rate used in music projects, and the same sample
rate used by CDs.
48kHz:
Typically used with music for video projects, but also in some music projects
because of the belief that the higher sample rate means higher fidelity. However, this is
not a dramatic difference; you may not notice any difference at all.
88.2kHz:
The less common of two “high-resolution” sample rates (neither is available in
Ableton Live Lite 7 Gibson Studio Edition). Recording at 88.2kHz creates files that are
twice as large as those created when using 44.1kHz. Also, some plug-ins used in audio
applications may not work as well at 88.2kHz, or you may be able to use fewer
instances. However, latencies are lower if your computer is up to the task of handling
high-resolution sample rates.
96kHz:
The most common “high-resolution” sample rate, although it’s still not as
common as 44.1 and 48kHz sample rates. Recording at 96kHz creates files that are
2.18 times as large as those created when using 44.1kHz. All other comments regarding
88.2kHz apply here as well.
Sample Rate (Macintosh)
Click on a sample rate button to select it. It's often best to do this before opening any
audio application. After opening the application, set its sample rate to the same value.
Sample Rate (Windows XP)
Click on a button to select a sample rate. It's recommended that you do this before
opening an audio application. After the application is open, set its sample rate to the
same value.
Enabling the “Locked” setting (available only in the Windows XP Console) blocks
software from changing your selected sample rate. Note: Locking the sample rate is not
really necessary for applications (such as Live Lite 7 Gibson Studio Edition) that use
ASIO. However, locking can be important when using RIP as a “sound card.” See
Appendix E.
