MP2 File Extension

What is MP2 file?

Audio files with the .MP2 extension have been written in the compressed, lossy MPEG Layer II audio coding format. MPEG Layer II Compressed Audio allows for the preservation of good quality sound while saving disk space, making it compliant with the ISO/IEC 11172-3 standard.

Where is the MP2 format used?

The .MP2 files, owing to their superior usage parameters - more faithful sound quality than mp3 while maintaining a smaller file size than the WAV PCM format, are used in many specialized cases. These include:

• radio broadcasting stations,
• audio format for VCD - Video CD, SVCD - Super Video CD,
• one of the possible audio formats for DVD.

Many music playback programs support audio recorded in the MP2 format. For example, files with the .MP2 extension can be opened in Winamp, KMPlayer, or QuickTime Player. However, the format is not as widely supported as mp3 files.

MP2 file format - Broad Capabilities

Although largely superseded by the newer MP3 format, .MP2 files still find specialized applications. They possess broader capabilities than their successor, including mono format, stereo, intensity encoded joint stereo, and uncorrelated dual channel. The MP2 format can handle bitrates from 32 up to 384 kbit/s and sampling from 16-48 kHz. It also provides support for multiple channels - up to 5 full-range plus support for LFE - Low Frequency Enhancement.

Programs which support MP2 file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open MP2 files divided into 4 categories according to system platform supported. Files with MP2 extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 03/24/2024

How to open file with MP2 extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MP2 files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with MP2 files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with MP2 files.

Step 1. Download and install iTunes

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports MP2 files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select iTunes or one of the recommended programs (for example, Winamp, RealPlayer, Windows Media Player) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MP2 files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading iTunes installed is by going to developer’s website (Apple, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of iTunes

If you already have iTunes installed on your systems and MP2 files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that iTunes cannot handle files with MP2 may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of iTunes is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate MPEG Layer II Compressed Audio Format files with iTunes

After installing iTunes (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open MP2 files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the MP2 file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where iTunes is installed, check the Always use this app to open MP2 files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the MP2 file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MP2 extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the MP2 file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper MP2 file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the MP2 file for viruses or malware

If the MP2 is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the MP2 file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the MP2 file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with MP2 extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic MP2 file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with MP2 extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open iTunes

If the systems has insufficient resources to open MP2 files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with MPEG Layer II Compressed Audio Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the MP2 files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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