Understanding Descript Export Settings and File Quality

Why Did My File Size Change Between Import and Export?

When you import and export files with Descript, you might notice changes in file size. Here's why:

Compression and Quality

  • Lossless Compression: Descript uses lossless compression to keep the highest quality at the lowest possible size.
  • File Size vs. Quality: File size doesn’t directly relate to file quality. Always check for visible quality differences between the original source and the exported file.
    • Recording vs. Exporting: Recorded files are usually larger because they capture content with maximum accuracy. Exported files are optimized for performance and accuracy.

Audio and Video Compression

  • h.264 Files: These files have compressed audio but maintain full-quality video. This helps reduce file size, and audio compression is typically less noticeable than video compression.

About Export Settings: Bit Rate and Bit Depth

You might have questions about export settings, especially bit rate and bit depth.

Bit Depth Settings

  • Customization: Bit depth settings are limited to High, Medium, and Low.
  • Relevance: Bit depth mainly affects file compression. If you need specific file parameters, consider exporting them to XML to keep the exact file properties.

Understanding Bit Depth

  • What Is Bit Depth?: Bit depth determines the amount of information in each sound sample. Higher bit depths offer a more dynamic range. Common bit depths include:
    • 16-bit: Used for CDs.
    • 24-bit: Used for professional audio.
  • Recording vs. Exporting: Higher bit depths are crucial during recording to capture dynamic range but are less critical during exports.

For more in-depth information on digital audio basics, check out this great article by izotope.

Maintaining File Properties 

  • Timeline Export: To keep your file properties, use the timeline export feature. Note that Studio Sound and other generated files may have different settings from the original.

By understanding these key points, you can ensure your exported files meet your quality expectations while managing file size effectively. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to our support team.