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Playing sounds
Because CMIX can create both floating-point and 16-bit integer files, some of the soundfiles produced by CMIX might be unplayable on some systems (most computer digital-to-analog convertors can play only 16-bit soundfiles). The floating-point soundfiles must be converted to 16-bit integer soundfiles before they can be played. The rescale command (in the cmix/cmd directory) will convert floating-point soundfiles to 16-bit integer soundfiles. Why work with floating-point soundfiles at all? The advantage is that it is virtually impossible to exceed the maximum represented amplitude in a floating-point soundfile, while it is quite easy to saturate a 16-bit integer in an output soundfile. This saturation results in very nasty-sounding digital clipping familiar to many who work with 16-bit soundfiles. There are advantages to working directly with 16-bit soundfiles, however, if care is taken to achieve the highest possible amplitude without going over the 16-bit maximum (32768).
The best way to learn how to use CMIX is to actually try using it. Although CMIX error messages tend to be cryptic, a little patience and perseverance will open many new sound worlds. Try it! -- (perhaps) you'll like it!
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