P,Q codes.

[the_dr38]

Does anyone know of a relatively cheap programme that can generate P,Q codes? Does such software exist? I am assuming this is something you can't do in PT LE??? Thanks for any suggestions.

L.Dudley

[spkguitar]

PQ codes tell a CD player where each track and sub-index starts and stops, and are accurate to the CD frame, which is 1/75th of a second. This information is stored in the P and Q bits of the CD word. Since Pro Tools doesn't have any CD writing capabilities, it definitely would not have the capability to generate PQ Codes.

Does such software exist?

No, mastering engineers usually rely on black magic and voodoo to do their work.

Sorry for the sarcasm, but seriously, that's a silly question.

A google search for PQ Codes will put you in the right direction. Common programs such as Wavelab, CD Architect, et al will all do what you are looking to do.

I definitely would recommend a professional mastering engineer, though.

[the_dr38]

Yeah, just starting to experiment with mastering. I have a reasonable understaning of what they are, just never used them. My reason for wondering about software is that I just assumed there would be some old reliable piece of trusty hardware that did the job better??? Thanks for the advice about using Google though.

[the_dr38]

Yeah, just starting to experiment with mastering. I have a reasonable understaning of what they are, just never used them. My reason for wondering about software is that I just assumed there would be some old reliable piece of trusty hardware that did the job better??? Thanks for the advice about using Google though.

[the_dr38]

PS no offence but how is that a silly question to someone that doesn't know the answer? People can't just assume things. Don't mean to be too obnoxious.

[aliengroover]

I believe the question was, "is there a cheap program that allows you to do PQ codes?" not, "is there a program that allows you to do PQ codes?" Correct me if I'm wrong. Nonetheless...

If you need to split a long recording into tracks (e.g. a live recording or DJ mix), then the cheapest way in is Audacity. It's free, to boot. I used it to prep an album I didn't have time to babysit whilst it was recording. It's fairly easy, though not as easy as CD Architect or Wavelab. I was very pleased with the results. It did what I needed.
Peace