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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and answers about AudioPie.

General​

What is AudioPie?​

AudioPie is a desktop application that converts MP3 audio files into M4B audiobook format with chapter markers, metadata, and cover art.

Is AudioPie free?​

Yes! AudioPie is free and open-source under the MIT license.

What platforms does AudioPie support?​

AudioPie runs on:

  • 🐧 Linux (AppImage)
  • 🪟 Windows (Installer)
  • 🍎 macOS (DMG)

What file formats are supported?​

Input: MP3 files only (more formats planned)

Output: M4B (MPEG-4 audiobook)

Audiobook Creation​

How do I create an audiobook?​

  1. Add your MP3 tracks
  2. Arrange chapters
  3. Fill in metadata (title, author, etc.)
  4. Add cover art (optional)
  5. Click Build

See the Quick Start guide for details.

Can I add files other than MP3?​

Currently, only MP3 files are supported. Support for WAV, FLAC, and other formats is planned for future versions.

How long does building take?​

Typically 2-5x real-time speed:

  • 10-hour audiobook: 2-5 minutes
  • 30-hour audiobook: 6-15 minutes

Depends on your computer's speed and settings.

Why is my output file so large?​

File size depends on bitrate:

  • 128 kbps = ~56 MB per hour
  • 64 kbps = ~28 MB per hour

For smaller files, reduce bitrate in Settings. 64 kbps is excellent for spoken word.

Chapters​

Can I create chapters manually?​

Chapters are created automatically from your tracks. Each track becomes one chapter.

For custom chapter points, split your audio files before importing.

How do I merge chapters?​

Currently, chapters are 1:1 with tracks. To merge chapters:

  1. Merge the source MP3 files using an audio editor
  2. Import the merged file as one track

Why are chapter times wrong?​

Chapter times are calculated from track durations. If times are wrong:

  • Check if source files have correct duration
  • Try removing and re-adding problematic tracks
  • Ensure FFmpeg is working correctly

Audio Quality​

What bitrate should I use?​

For audiobooks (spoken word):

  • 64 kbps — Good quality, smallest files
  • 96 kbps — Better quality, recommended
  • 128 kbps — Best quality for voice

Higher bitrates (192+) are unnecessary for speech.

Will converting affect audio quality?​

AudioPie re-encodes MP3 to AAC. Quality loss is minimal at recommended bitrates. AAC at 64 kbps sounds comparable to MP3 at 96 kbps.

Can I keep original quality?​

For minimal quality loss:

  • Use 128 kbps or higher output bitrate
  • Start with high-quality source files
  • Avoid multiple re-encodings

Compatibility​

Which players support M4B?​

All major audiobook players:

  • Apple Books (macOS, iOS)
  • Audiobookshelf
  • Smart AudioBook Player (Android)
  • Prologue (iOS)
  • Plex
  • VLC

Why doesn't my player show chapters?​

Some players need to:

  • Re-scan the library
  • Re-import the audiobook
  • Update their database

Try removing and re-adding the audiobook.

Can I use M4B files on Kindle?​

Kindle devices don't support M4B natively. Options:

  • Use Audible format instead
  • Convert M4B to Audible using other tools
  • Use a different player app on Kindle Fire

Projects​

Where are projects saved?​

Projects are saved as .audiopie files wherever you choose. Settings are stored in your system's app data folder.

Can I edit a project on another computer?​

Yes, but ensure:

  • The .audiopie file is copied
  • All source MP3 files are in the same relative locations
  • Or re-link the files after opening

Why can't I save my project?​

To save, you need:

  • At least one track added
  • A title in metadata

Add these and try again.

Troubleshooting​

AudioPie won't start​

Linux: Ensure AppImage has execute permission

chmod +x AudioPie_*.AppImage

macOS: Allow in System Preferences → Security & Privacy

Windows: If blocked by Defender, click "More info" → "Run anyway"

Build fails with FFmpeg error​

  1. Try using bundled FFmpeg (clear custom paths in Settings)
  2. Update FFmpeg to latest version
  3. Check source files aren't corrupted

Tracks show 0:00 duration​

  • Source file may be corrupted
  • FFmpeg might not be configured correctly
  • Try re-encoding the source file

Application is slow​

  • Check available disk space
  • Close other applications
  • Reduce number of tracks per project
  • Try restarting AudioPie

Feature Requests​

Will you add [feature]?​

Check GitHub Issues for existing requests or create a new one!

Planned features:

  • Support for more audio formats
  • Chapter splitting within tracks
  • Batch project building
  • Audiobook playback preview

How can I contribute?​

AudioPie is open source! You can:

  • Report bugs on GitHub
  • Submit feature requests
  • Contribute code via pull requests
  • Help with translations

Support​

Where can I get help?​

  1. Check this FAQ
  2. Search GitHub Issues
  3. Create a new issue with detailed information

How do I report a bug?​

Create an issue on GitHub with:

  • AudioPie version
  • Operating system
  • Steps to reproduce
  • Expected vs actual behavior
  • Any error messages