When turning sounds into digital audio, there is the bit rate, and there is the sample rate.

For CDs, use 16 bits, 44,100 samples. This is commonly written 16/44.1 or 16/44.1K. This is the only setting used for commercial audio CDs.

For better quality recording, most pros will record and mix in 24 bits. Better headroom for dynamic range. Then they export the final product to CD quality.

For video, some programs work better in 48K than 44.1K.

For each sample rate, there is an option to double it for better quality, if your equipment will support it. That would make it 88.2 or 96K.

MP3s can be any sample rate you want, depending on the quality and the size of the file you are trying to make. I use an encoding rate of 128 minimum, and at least 196 if the file won't be too big. I normally use 16 bits unless it's voice only.

If you are using ProTools, then you really need to study up on this. It's the same info no matter what sequencer program you use.

BIAB 2025 Win Audiophile. Software: Studio One 7 Pro, Swam horns, Acoustica-7, Notion 6, Song Master Pro, Win 11 Home. Hardware: Intel i9, 32 Gb; Presonus 192 & Faderport 8, Royer 121, Slate VSX, Adam Sub8 & Neumann 120 monitors.