River Past Audio Converter Pro is an audio converter as well as extractor. With this application, the user can convert a wide variety of audio formats including MP3, WMA, WAV, AIFF, RealAudio, and even the non-standard Unix Audio and OGG. The software also allows audio extraction from WMV, ASF, AVI, RealMedia, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and the less common MPEG-4 and QuickTime MOV. Batch conversion is likewise possible.
The program is beneficial for users who prefer to have a greater extent of command over the conversion. When a file contains multiple audio streams (like OGG Media and Matroka Video), the standard audio converter converts only the first stream. By contrast, Audio Converter Pro enables users to choose the audio stream they want to extract from the file. When the preview window is opened, the user can set the start and end times for the conversion. This means that users no longer have to use a separate audio editing software to trim their audio. Users also have more control over the channel, resolution (8-bit or 16-bit), sample rate, and bit rate of the MP3, WAV, and audio-only AVI output.
In case a file already has an audio encoded in a certain format, the application permits audio extraction without having to re-encode it first. Audio Converter Pro has the ability to extract the MP3 package from the original file and then write it directly to the output file. As a result, the audio’s original quality is maintained.