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  • Professional Look at the Net: Design and UX Tips for Business Websites

    Professional Look at the Net: Social Media Presence for Corporate Success

    Why it matters

    • Brand trust: Consistent, professional profiles increase credibility with customers, partners, and investors.
    • Recruiting & retention: Candidates judge companies by their social presence.
    • Lead generation: Targeted content drives traffic, inquiries, and conversions.
    • Crisis management: Clear, professional channels let you respond quickly and control narratives.

    Key elements

    1. Consistent branding
      • Logo, color palette, typography, and tone unified across platforms.
    2. Optimized profiles
      • Clear company description, correct contact info, location, and a link to your website or landing page.
    3. Content strategy
      • Mix: thought leadership (25%), product/service updates (25%), culture/recruiting (20%), customer stories/case studies (20%), curated third-party insights (10%).
    4. Visual standards
      • Templateed post layouts, high-resolution images, branded video intros, and accessibility-friendly captions/alt text.
    5. Posting cadence
      • LinkedIn: 3–5 times/week; Twitter/X: daily; Instagram: 3–5 times/week; Facebook: 2–4 times/week. Adjust by audience engagement.
    6. Engagement & community
      • Respond to comments/messages within 24–48 hours; encourage employee advocacy; host live Q&As or AMAs quarterly.
    7. Performance tracking
      • KPIs: engagement rate, follower growth, referral traffic, lead conversions, share of voice. Review monthly.
    8. Governance & policy
      • Social media policy, content approval workflow, crisis escalation matrix, and designated account owners.

    Quick 30-day action plan

    1. Week 1: Audit profiles + set branding templates.
    2. Week 2: Create 12 post drafts covering the content mix.
    3. Week 3: Schedule posts, enable analytics, and train spokespeople.
    4. Week 4: Launch employee advocacy, run one paid post boosting top content, review initial metrics.

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Inconsistent messaging across platforms.
    • Overposting promotional content.
    • Ignoring negative comments or leaving messages unanswered.
    • No crisis plan or unclear approval processes.

    Tools & resources (examples)

    • Scheduling: Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social.
    • Analytics: native platform insights, Google Analytics.
    • Design: Canva, Figma.
    • Advocacy: EveryoneSocial, LinkedIn Elevate.

    If you want, I can draft a 12-post content calendar tailored to your industry and audience—tell me your industry and target audience.

  • VTKDesigner: A Beginner’s Guide to Building VTK GUIs

    Advanced VTKDesigner Techniques for Complex 3D Applications

    1. Modular pipeline design

    • Use nested components: Break scenes into reusable sub-pipelines (e.g., geometry import → cleaning → mapper → actor) so changes propagate cleanly.
    • Encapsulate transformations: Keep coordinate transforms and filters in a single module to avoid global state issues.

    2. Efficient data handling

    • Lazy loading: Load large datasets on demand rather than at startup.
    • Downsample for interaction: Use LOD (level-of-detail) decimation or reduced-resolution copies during interactive operations, swapping to full-resolution for final renders.
    • Memory-aware filters: Prefer in-place filters and streamable readers when available to reduce peak memory.

    3. Performance profiling and optimization

    • Profile pipelines: Measure time per filter/mapper to find hotspots; prioritize optimizing expensive filters or replacing them with approximations.
    • GPU acceleration: Use GPU-enabled mappers (e.g., OpenGL/VAO-backed renderers) and shaders for heavy geometry and volume rendering.
    • Batch updates: Group UI-driven changes to avoid repeated pipeline re-execution (suspend/resume updates).

    4. Advanced rendering techniques

    • Custom shaders: Inject GLSL shaders for per-vertex/fragment effects (lighting, candidate data-driven coloring, or ambient occlusion).
    • Order-independent transparency: Implement depth-peeling or weighted blended OIT for correct translucent compositing in complex scenes.
    • Multi-pass rendering: Use offscreen passes for post-processing (bloom, tone mapping) and for generating intermediate buffers like normals or depth.

    5. Interactive tools and controls

    • Custom widgets: Create manipulators (handles, gizmos) for precise editing of transforms, clip planes, and probe locations.
    • Event-driven interactions: Use state machines for complex interactions (drag/drop with modifier keys) rather than ad-hoc callbacks.
    • Undo/redo model: Maintain an action stack for user edits to allow safe experimentation.

    6. Advanced data visualization patterns

    • Multi-view synchronization: Link cameras, selection, and time steps across views while retaining view-local overlays and annotations.
    • Hybrid visualization: Combine volumetric rendering with surface geometry and vector-field glyphs — synchronize transfer functions and color maps.
    • Feature extraction pipelines: Implement automated preprocessing (segmentation, iso-surface extraction, skeletonization) that feed interactive exploration.

    7. Scalability and large data

    • Out-of-core rendering: Stream data from disk or a server; use multi-resolution datasets (e.g., octrees, multigrid) to render large scenes.
    • Distributed processing: Split preprocessing and heavy computation across worker processes or a cluster, sending only reduced results to the client.

    8. Quality and reproducibility

    • Deterministic pipelines: Seed random operations and record pipeline parameters to reproduce results.
    • Automated tests: Unit-test filters and end-to-end tests for common interaction flows and rendering outputs.

    9. Extensibility and integration

    • Plugin architecture: Design extension points for new readers, filters, or renderers so teams can add functionality without modifying core code.
    • Scripting interface: Expose Python bindings for rapid prototyping, batch processing, and user macros.

    10. UX and presentation

    • Contextual help: Surface relevant parameter hints and ranges inline.
    • Performance feedback: Display indicators when operations are long-running and provide cancelation.
    • Export fidelity: Ensure exported images and animations preserve color maps, camera, and rendering passes.

    If you want, I can convert this into a hands-on checklist, a step-by-step migration plan for an existing VTKDesigner project, or sample code snippets for custom shaders and widgets.

  • Export Facebook Messages: Quick Methods for Full Chat History

    Facebook Chat Export: Save, Download, and Backup Your Conversations

    What it is

    Facebook Chat Export refers to saving copies of your Messenger conversations so you can keep, search, or archive them outside Facebook. Exports can include message text, timestamps, photos, videos, and attachments depending on the export method and settings.

    When to use it

    • Backup: Preserve important conversations before account changes or deletion.
    • Record-keeping: Keep transcripts for personal, legal, or business reasons.
    • Migration: Move conversations to another app or offline storage.
    • Analysis: Search or process messages locally (e.g., for sentiment or keyword review).

    How to export (recommended method — Facebook Data Download)

    1. Go to Facebook Settings & privacy → Settings → Your Facebook information.
    2. Select Download your information.
    3. Under Messages, choose date range, format (HTML or JSON), and media quality.
    4. Click Create file. Facebook will prepare the archive; you’ll receive a notification when it’s ready to download.
    5. Download the ZIP file, extract it, and open the Messages folder (HTML for readable pages, JSON for programmatic processing).

    Alternative methods

    • Messenger desktop/web: Manually copy threads or use browser “Save page” to capture single conversations.
    • Third-party tools: Some apps claim to export Messenger chats; verify security and permissions before use.
    • Screenshots or printing to PDF: Useful for short threads or specific message snapshots.

    Format notes

    • HTML: Human-readable, easy to browse in a browser.
    • JSON: Structured, better for automated parsing or importing into other tools.
    • Media: Photos/videos included if you chose media in the request; large files increase archive size.

    Privacy & safety tips

    • Download only on trusted devices and networks.
    • Store archives encrypted or in a secure location if they contain sensitive info.
    • Revoke app permissions for third-party exporters you no longer trust.

    Troubleshooting

    • No messages included: Ensure “Messages” was selected and correct date range used.
    • Archive not ready: Wait — large archives can take hours.
    • Missing media: Choose higher media quality when requesting the download.

    Quick checklist

    • Select Messages in Download your information.
    • Pick HTML for reading, JSON for processing.
    • Include media if you need attachments.
    • Secure the downloaded archive (encryption/password protection).

    If you want, I can give step-by-step screenshots, a short script to parse JSON messages, or a checklist tailored to Windows or macOS.

  • PhoenixSuit Review: Comfort, Durability, and Value Compared

    PhoenixSuit: The Ultimate Guide to Features & Styling

    Overview

    PhoenixSuit is a modern tailored suit designed for professionals who want a balance of style, comfort, and durability. It emphasizes clean lines, versatile styling, and materials engineered for daily wear.

    Key Features

    • Fabric: Mid-weight blended wool or performance synthetic blend for breathability, wrinkle resistance, and easy care.
    • Construction: Half-canvassed chest for structure with a lightweight lining to reduce bulk.
    • Fit options: Slim, tailored, and classic cuts available to suit different body types.
    • Stretch: Integrated mechanical stretch for mobility without losing shape.
    • Finishes: Reinforced seams, hidden interior pockets, and water-resistant treatment on outer fabric.
    • Sustainability: Often uses responsibly sourced fibers or recycled components where specified.

    Styling Guide

    • Business formal: Pair a navy PhoenixSuit with a crisp white shirt, black oxfords, and a silk tie in a conservative pattern. Keep accessories minimal—leather belt and a slim watch.
    • Business casual: Wear the blazer with chinos and a fine-gauge merino or cotton sweater; ditch the tie and choose loafers or derby shoes.
    • Smart casual: Combine a patterned or textured PhoenixSuit blazer with dark jeans and a plain tee or turtleneck; sneakers or Chelsea boots work well.
    • Evening/Events: Use a darker color (charcoal or black), a white dress shirt, and a pocket square; consider velvet loafers for added flair.

    Fit & Tailoring Tips

    • Shoulders: Joints should align with your natural shoulder—this is the hardest area to alter.
    • Sleeve length: Show about 1/4–1/2 inch of shirt cuff.
    • Jacket length: Should cover your seat; use body proportions as a guide.
    • Trouser break: Minimal to no break for modern looks; full break for classic styling.
    • Alterations worth investing in: Sleeve shortening, trouser hemming, and waist suppression.

    Care & Maintenance

    • Cleaning: Spot clean and use professional dry cleaning sparingly to preserve fabric treatments.
    • Storage: Use shaped hangers and breathable garment bags. Rotate suits to extend life.
    • De-wrinkling: Use a steamer rather than heavy pressing to maintain shape and canvas structure.

    Buying Checklist

    • Purpose: Daily workwear vs occasional use determines fabric weight and durability needs.
    • Fit preference: Try all three fit options and prioritize shoulder and chest comfort.
    • Material needs: Look for performance blends if you travel frequently; pure wool for breathability and classic drape.
    • Alteration policy: Confirm easy alteration access and return/exchange terms.

    Quick Pros & Cons

    Pros Cons
    Versatile styling options May require tailoring for perfect fit
    Performance fabrics and easy care Higher-end materials raise price
    Multiple fits for body types Some finishes (water-resistance) may wear over time
  • InternetPlayer vs. Competitors: Which Streaming App Wins?

    Here are concise descriptions covering likely meanings of “InternetPlayer” (decisive assumptions made):

    1. InternetPlayer — Windows streaming app (Listen Music)
    • Freeware Windows audio player (latest known v1.102, 2008) that lists internet radio stations, creates playlists, supports streaming MP3/AAC, and offers a paid premium tier for downloads/recording. Pros: simple UI, wide station list. Cons: ads in free version, possible buffering, limited support.
    1. InternetPlayer — Android/TV streaming device term
    • Marketing name used for Android TV boxes / IPTV set‑top devices (Amlogic-based boxes) that play online video/audio, support 4K, Wi‑Fi/ethernet, and codecs like H.264/H.265. Typical features: app support (Netflix/YouTube), HDMI output, optional voice remote.
    1. InternetPlayer — SDK / developer class (NKInternetPlayer)
    • A programming API (seen in NimbleKit) providing functions: playFromURL(url), stop(), mute(), notifyPlayingStarted(callback), seekToPosition(seconds), getDurationInSeconds(), getCurrentPositionInSeconds(), setVolume(volume). Used for playing streamed MP3/AAC and in-app integration.
    1. Generic meaning — any web-based media player
    • A browser or embedded player that streams audio/video from internet sources (HTML5 players, HLS/DASH support), with controls for play/pause/seek, adaptive bitrate, DRM optionality, and common integrations (analytics, ad insertion).
    1. Unknown/ambiguous uses
    • Could be a product name used by multiple small sites/tools; details vary by vendor — verify exact product or provide a link if you want specific installation, security, or developer guidance.

    If you want one of these expanded (features, install steps, security/privacy notes, or developer examples), tell me which—I’ll assume the Windows app unless you specify.

  • Comparing Sync Breeze Server vs. Traditional File Replication Tools

    Comparing Sync Breeze Server vs. Traditional File Replication Tools

    Overview

    Sync Breeze Server is a centralized file synchronization and replication solution designed for Windows environments. Traditional file replication tools include native OS solutions (DFS Replication), SAN/NAS replication features, and third‑party continuous replication products. Below is a focused comparison to help choose the right approach.

    Feature Comparison

    Attribute Sync Breeze Server Traditional File Replication Tools
    Primary use case Real‑time and scheduled file synchronization across servers, shares, and network locations Varies: block‑level replication (SAN/NAS), OS‑level replication (DFS), or third‑party continuous replication
    Granularity File‑ and folder‑level rules, filters by size/type/date, content-based actions Block‑level (storage appliances) or file‑level with less granular filtering depending on product
    Bandwidth efficiency Incremental transfers, differential sync options, and throttling controls Storage replication often efficient at block level; many file‑level tools lack advanced filtering
    Conflict handling File versioning, configurable conflict resolution policies Varies: some tools offer automatic resolution; others require manual intervention
    Platform support Windows-centric (server and desktop shares) Varies: DFS (Windows), storage vendor tools (cross‑platform at block level), third‑party often multi‑OS
    Ease of deployment GUI management, server agent model, relatively quick setup Storage replication can be complex; DFS integrates with Windows AD but requires planning
    Monitoring & reporting Built‑in reports, activity logs, and alerts Varies widely; enterprise tools include advanced monitoring and integration with management systems
    Scalability Good for many file shares and users; may require additional servers for very large deployments SAN/NAS replication scales at storage level; enterprise replication solutions designed for large environments
    Security Permissions preserved, SSL/TLS for transfers (product‑dependent) Enterprise tools often include encryption, role‑based access, and compliance features
    Cost Typically licensing per server or instance; generally lower than enterprise storage replication Storage vendor solutions can be expensive; open/free options (DFS) have lower licensing but operational cost

    When to choose Sync Breeze Server

    • You need fine‑grained file/folder filters and rule‑based sync.
    • Windows file shares are the primary targets.
    • Budget constraints favor a software solution over expensive SAN/NAS replication.
    • You want quick deployment with GUI management and built‑in reporting.

    When to choose traditional replication

    • You require block‑level replication for databases or entire volumes with minimal downtime.
    • You need multi‑platform or vendor‑integrated storage replication features.
    • Enterprise SLAs demand high availability, synchronous replication, or storage‑level snapshots.
    • Existing storage infrastructure already provides replication and you prefer integrated management.

    Practical considerations

    1. Assess data type: databases and VM disks often need block‑level replication; documents and user files are fine with file‑level sync.
    2. Network impact: test incremental sync and throttling to estimate bandwidth.
    3. Recovery and versioning: confirm how many versions are retained and how conflicts are handled.
    4. Security and compliance: verify encryption in transit, access controls, and audit logs.
    5. Cost of ownership: include licensing, storage, network, and operational overhead.

    Recommendation (concise)

    • Use Sync Breeze Server for Windows‑centric, rule‑driven file synchronization with lower cost and simpler deployment.
    • Use traditional block‑level or vendor storage replication for mission‑critical databases, VMs, and environments needing storage‑level consistency and enterprise SLAs.
  • How to Edit Faster with ThunderSoft Video Editor: Tips & Shortcuts

    7 Hidden Features of ThunderSoft Video Editor You Should Know

    1. Multi-track PIP (Picture-in-Picture) with independent motion paths

      • Add multiple PIP layers and animate each along its own path (position, scale, rotation) for dynamic overlays and split-screen storytelling.
    2. Keyframe-based effect control

      • Apply keyframes to filters, opacity, and transform properties so effects can ramp up/down over time instead of being static.
    3. Built-in audio ducking & spectrum display

      • Automatic ducking lowers background audio when dialogue or voiceover is detected; the visual spectrum helps identify and fix noisy sections quickly.
    4. Batch export with per-file presets

      • Queue multiple projects or clips and export them in one run, assigning different export presets to each item (resolutions, codecs, bitrates).
    5. Smart scene detection for quick cutting

      • Automatic scene-change detection splits long footage into clips at cut points—handy for trimming livestreams or recorded talks before manual refinement.
    6. Masking with feathered edges and trackable masks

      • Create custom shapes (ellipse, rectangle, freehand), feather the edges, and track the mask to moving subjects for targeted color/effect work.
    7. Nested editing (compound clips)

      • Group multiple clips, audio, and effects into a single nested clip that you can reuse, apply global changes to, or place on other timelines for faster project organization.
  • Secure Email with Hexamail Server: Best Practices and Configuration Tips

    Hexamail Server: Complete Setup Guide for Windows and Linux

    Overview

    Hexamail Server is a self-hosted mail and collaboration server offering SMTP/IMAP/POP3, webmail, CalDAV/SyncML calendar sync, shared contacts, archiving, anti-spam/antivirus, and admin APIs. It runs on Windows and Linux and provides both a Windows admin console and a WebAdmin interface.

    Quick checklist (prerequisites)

    • Server with sufficient disk (≥2GB for basic install; more for mail stores).
    • Windows (⁄64-bit) or Linux (CentOS/Ubuntu/RedHat) OS.
    • Static public IP or hostname and DNS MX record pointing to it.
    • Administrator/root access on the machine.
    • Open required firewall ports (common defaults below).
    • SSL certificate for secure services (recommended).

    Ports to open (defaults)

    • SMTP: 25
    • SMTP (SSL): 465
    • Submission/SMTP alternative: configurable (often 587)
    • IMAP: 143
    • IMAP (SSL): 993
    • POP3: 110
    • POP3 (SSL): 995
    • Webmail/WebAdmin: 880 (HTTP), ⁄8080 (HTTPS/http depending on config)
    • Calendar (CalDAV/SyncML): ⁄443 (configurable)
    • Remote admin: 23006 (Windows admin console)
    • Developer API: 1880 (configurable)

    Windows installation (steps)

    1. Download the appropriate installer (32- or 64-bit) and license file.
    2. Run hexamailserversetup.exe as Administrator.
    3. Install both the Windows service and Administration console if prompted.
    4. Choose install folder and complete setup—installer starts configuration wizard.
    5. Use the wizard to create domains, users/mailboxes, and basic mail routing.
    6. Configure SMTP relay/smarthost if your ISP blocks port 25.
    7. Install SSL certs (WebAdmin, IMAP/POP3/SMTP) via the administration interface.
    8. Open required ports on Windows Firewall and your network firewall/router.
    9. Test sending/receiving and connect clients (Outlook, Thunderbird, mobile) via IMAP/SMTP or webmail.

    Linux installation (steps)

    1. Download the Linux build and copy to target machine.
    2. Ensure required packages and correct architecture (64-bit recommended).
    3. Switch to root for ports <1024 access.
    4. Unpack and run provided start.sh to begin the service.
      • Example: ./start.sh
    5. Optionally create a systemd service file (/etc/systemd/system/hexamailserver.service) pointing ExecStart to start.sh and ExecStop to stop.sh.
    6. Start the service and check logs (logs/Hexamail Server.log).
    7. Open ports in iptables/firewalld/ufw and configure NAT/port forwarding on router if needed.
    8. Open WebAdmin at http://server:880/ (or configured port) to finish configuration: domains, users, routing, SSL.
    9. Install SSL certs and configure mail client settings; configure smarthost if required.

    Post-install configuration (recommended actions)

    • Add your domains under SMTP Server → Domains.
    • Configure DNS: MX record pointing to your FQDN; PTR record for reverse DNS where possible.
    • Configure DKIM/DMARC/SPF to improve deliverability.
    • Set up antivirus/antispam modules and quarantine policies.
    • Configure mailbox storage paths and retention/archive policies.
    • If using LDAP/Active Directory, configure sync under Authentication.
    • Enable and test TLS/SSL for all client/server connections.
    • Configure backups for mail store and Hexamail configuration files.
    • Review logs and set up alerting/monitoring.

    Running as a service on Linux (systemd example)

    Create /etc/systemd/system/hexamailserver.service:

    Code

    [Unit] Description=Hexamail Server After=network.target[Service] Type=oneshot ExecStart=/path/to/hexamail/start.sh RemainAfterExit=true ExecStop=/path/to/hexamail/stop.sh

    [Install] WantedBy=multi-user.target

    Then enable and start:

    • systemctl enable hexamailserver
    • systemctl start hexamailserver

    Troubleshooting pointers

    • If messages queue but not delivered: check SMTP Relay/Smarthost settings and network connectivity to next-hop.
    • If remote servers reject mail: verify PTR, SPF, DKIM, and that your IP isn’t blacklisted.
    • If WebAdmin unreachable: confirm service running and firewall/router port forwarding.
    • Check logs in logs/Hexamail Server.log for startup and delivery errors.

    Useful documentation links

    If you want, I can produce a step-by-step configuration for a specific OS version (example: Ubuntu 22.04 or Windows Server 2019) including sample DNS records, firewall commands, and exact client settings.

  • Best Alternatives to Vista Photo Gallery in 2026

    Vista Photo Gallery: A Complete Beginner’s Guide

    What it is

    Vista Photo Gallery is a desktop photo management and editing application originally bundled with Windows Vista as part of the Windows Live/Windows Essentials family. It lets you import, organize, view, tag, edit, and share digital photos and basic videos on a Windows PC.

    Key features

    • Import: Easy transfer of photos from cameras, memory cards, and folders.
    • Organization: Folder-based browsing, albums, tags (people/places), ratings, and metadata (EXIF) viewing.
    • Basic editing: Crop, straighten, red-eye removal, auto-fix, exposure, color adjustments, and filters.
    • Batch processing: Apply edits, rename, or export multiple files at once.
    • Slideshow & viewing: Fullscreen slideshows with simple transitions.
    • Sharing: Export to local folders, burn to disc, or prepare for email and web sharing (limited by modern web service compatibility).

    System requirements & availability

    • Designed for Windows Vista and compatible with some later Windows versions; it is no longer actively updated or officially supported. Modern Windows (Windows ⁄11) includes built-in Photos app that replaced much of its functionality. Installation now typically requires finding archived Windows Essentials installers—exercise caution and verify sources.

    Quick start (step-by-step)

    1. Install and open Vista Photo Gallery (from a trusted archive if needed).
    2. Import photos: File > Import from device or drag folders into the library.
    3. Organize: Create albums, add tags and ratings to sort and filter.
    4. Edit: Select a photo → click Edit > apply crop/auto-fix/red-eye and save or Save a copy.
    5. Export/share: Use File > Export or right-click to save resized copies for email/web.

    Tips & best practices

    • Back up original images before batch edits.
    • Use tags and ratings for fast filtering across folders.
    • For advanced edits, use a dedicated editor (Photoshop, GIMP).
    • Prefer modern alternatives for cloud sync and ongoing security updates.

    Alternatives

    • Windows Photos (built into Windows ⁄11)
    • Google Photos (cloud sync and AI organization)
    • Adobe Lightroom (powerful cataloging and editing)
    • FastStone Image Viewer (lightweight viewer/editor)

    When to still use it

    • You prefer a lightweight, local-only organizer and have legacy workflows tied to Vista-era tools or older Windows systems.

    If you want, I can write a short troubleshooting guide (common errors and fixes) or a step-by-step migration plan to move your library from Vista Photo Gallery to Windows Photos or Google Photos.

  • Pazera Free FLV to AVI Converter: Quick Guide & Top Features

    Best settings for Pazera Free FLV to AVI Converter to preserve quality

    • Output format: AVI
    • Video codec: H.264 (x264) if available; otherwise XviD for wider compatibility
    • Encoding mode: 2-pass encoding (enabled)
    • Video bitrate: Set a high constant bitrate or use target bitrate near original source — typically 3,000–8,000 kbps for 720p, 8,000–15,000 kbps for 1080p. If unsure, choose a bitrate ~25–40% above the FLV’s bitrate.
    • Resolution: Match source resolution (do not upscale). If you must reduce size, scale down to 720p from 1080p; maintain aspect ratio.
    • Frame rate (FPS): Keep source FPS (do not convert). If forced, use 23.976 / 24 / 25 / 29.97 depending on original.
    • Profile / Level (H.264): High profile, level appropriate for resolution (e.g., [email protected] for 1080p).
    • Audio codec: AAC or MP3 (prefer AAC for better quality at lower bitrates)
    • Audio bitrate: 128–192 kbps for stereo; 256 kbps for higher fidelity or multichannel. Match original sampling rate (44.1 or 48