Changing bit rate of MP3 music files using Media Player

[TreeConcern]

I wish to increase the bit rate of MP3 files on my Sony MP3 player when downloading music files using Microsoft Media Player. ie I wish to go from a bit rate of 128Kbps to 256Kbps. can I do this using Media Player and if so how?

[Philtaz]

If you are ripping CD's, yes you can. Open Windows Media Player and hover your pointer over the 'Rip' tab. Click 'Options', where upon Bit Rate should appear. Choose the one you want and hey presto.

[ChuckFickens]

Why do you want to do this?

If you increase the bit rate you will not increase the quality, you are starting with a 128Kbs file and you can't magically add quality to the track. you will just end up with a larger file size very likely at a slightly lower quality to the ear due to losses in re-encoding it.

If you want higher quality then you need to rip from CD again at a higher bit rate.

[TreeConcern]

I wish to thank Philtag and ChuckFickens for their replies regarding Bit rates on MP3 players and thereby in the process educating me.