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Switch Sound File Converter Plus

CNET Editors' review

by: CNET Staff on January 19, 2010

We see a lot of audio converters, and there's really only so much that they can do to differentiate themselves from one another; we rarely see any that are particularly impressive. Switch Sound File Converter didn't do anything that blew us away in terms of design or features, yet this lightweight, uncluttered program won us over with its simplicity and ease of use.

The program's interface is quite basic and intuitive, with its features organized with well-labeled graphical buttons. Using the program couldn't be easier; users simply select the files they want to convert, choose the output format and destination folder, optionally adjust the encoder options, and Switch does the rest. Although the program only supports MP3 and WAV input formats, users can convert files to 21 different file types. The program has a few nice extras, including the ability to access the freeDB Internet Database for track listing information and the option to run Switch in the background if other programs are being used. Most impressively, users can configure the program to be accessible via right-clicking; up to three right-click options can be set, and then users need only right-click on an audio file within Explorer to select the desired output format and start the conversion. The program comes with an HTML Help file that is well-written and thorough. Overall, we found Switch to be extremely simple, suitable for even file conversion novices, but customizable enough to suit more advanced users.

Switch Sound File Converter is free. The program installs a desktop icon without asking but uninstalls cleanly. We recommend this program to all users.

 
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Publisher's Description

From NCH Software:

Switch Plus is a professional audio file converter for Windows. It can convert mp3, wav or wma audio file formats and more to the audio file format of your choice. Switch Plus audio file converter is very easy to use. Just add the files you want to convert to the list, select the format you want to use, and then click the convert button.

Switch Plus Features: Simple and intuitive interface. Converts a variety of different audio file formats (including WMA, AU, GSM and DSS formats) into MP3 or WAV format. Automatically normalise audio while converting Ability to play tracks prior to conversion. Import and convert a playlist (m3u and pls). MP3 encoder supports constant or variable bit rates from 8 to 320kbps with optional error correction and stereo modes. WAV encoder supports sample rates between 6000 and 196000Hz in PCM as well as a number of other audio codecs. Allows up to 32000 files to be converted in one batch. Can be run from the command line for automation with other applications. Optimized CPU usage and efficient code allows for fastest conversion times.

What's new in this version: Version 4.22 added CDDB support and other operation improvements.

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All User Reviews
  • All versions:

    3.9 stars

    out of 481 votes

    • 5 star: 235
    • 4 star: 113
    • 3 star: 38
    • 2 star: 22
    • 1 star: 73
  • Current version:

    3.3 stars

    out of 27 votes

    • 5 star: 9
    • 4 star: 7
    • 3 star: 0
    • 2 star: 4
    • 1 star: 7
  • My rating:

    0 stars

    Write review

Results 1-10 of 27

  • 4.0 stars

    "Works well"

    May 17, 2012  |   By Death_Begone

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    the options for conversion are simple and concise
    works fast

    Cons

    the extra software it asks to install includes at least one BHO which can be dangerous

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Best audio converter"

    May 14, 2012  |   By Custom_Developer

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    No muss, no fuss, easy to use
    Worked first time
    Converts wav to mp3 easily

    Cons

    Free trial , instead of completely free to use with pro edition

    Summary

    Was the only converter that would do wav to mp3 quickly and easily

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  • 1.0 stars

    "There are FREE alternatives out there"

    April 30, 2012  |   By hingulf

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    It does what it should and if you avoid to install their extra bloatware (toolbars) which monitors your surfing habits it's a decent piece of software.

    Cons

    Browser toolbars which monitors surfing behaviour and looks at what pages you visit are NOT ok.

    Don't see the point in purchasing when there are free tools that does the same without costing anything.

    Summary

    Compared to Helium Audio Converter (which is TOTALLY free!) I just can't seem to figure out why I would chose this software over totally free software (which doesn't even contain toolbars or has premium versions).

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  • 2.0 stars

    "Free version not worth it."

    April 14, 2012  |   By mikel99

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    Seems to work OK.

    Cons

    Free trial period is only 14 days - then you have to install other software they are pushing. Installer came with three other programs that didn't really relate to audio conversion (browser toolbars, for example) - if you don't do the advanced install and uncheck the toolbar options, all the other things get installed by default.

    Summary

    I was not pleased with all the extraneous requirements that went with the free version - I won't be purchasing a license.

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  • 5.0 stars

    "Works great! Very Fast!"

    April 14, 2012  |   By gordonll

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    Switch Sound File Converter was easy for me to figure out and to do what I wanted,
    The install has The "Switch File Converter" and also "MixPad Audio Mixer" and "SoundPad Sound Editor".
    I have not checked out MixPad or WavePad.

    Cons

    I have not found any Cons.

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  • 1.0 stars

    "Do not download the free version!!!"

    March 14, 2012  |   By kew48

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    I did not even get to evaluate this software due to a free install and an attempt to uninstall and reinstall because of a misdirected file destination on my part.

    Cons

    Once you download the free version, you cannot entirely uninstall for whatever reason all their files from your system. When I attempted to reinstall, There were left over files which prevented a reinsall.Then when you request technical support, they ignore you unless you purchase their paid version. What a scam!!- Stay away!!

    Summary

    Stay away from the free version!!

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  • 4.0 stars

    "it is good good"

    March 2, 2012  |   By robh3isme

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    it is good good

    Cons

    it is good good

    Summary

    it is good good

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  • 1.0 stars

    "Nothing but bad times."

    February 19, 2012  |   By depechemode001

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    Does convert files, but.

    Cons

    Tried to delete converted files and mycoputer slowed down. The files wouldn't delete. I used file shredders, registry tools, and after everyyhing one file left that wouldn't delete.

    Summary

    I had to rebuild my my OS and prgrams to restore proper coditions. Tried it asecond time with the same results. Always have backups. I would have given it no stars if I could.

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  • 1.0 stars

    "malware detected when uninstalling as per AVG"

    February 5, 2012  |   By hsihelp

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    doesn't have any

    Cons

    - 4.5mb wav to 3.5mb mp3, not worth it!
    - try uninstalling the program, including this wave... and you'll get a malware alert from AVG!

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  • 1.0 stars

    "Without asking..."

    February 2, 2012  |   By malight

    Version: Switch Sound File Converter Plus 4.22

    Pros

    It worked as it said it would, but should not do more than advertised.

    Cons

    This product made automatic changes to my "open file" selections in files other than sound! This is a very undesirable "feature" and not tolerable!!

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Results 1-10 of 27

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