What is a MTM file?
MTM is a file extension that stands for MultiTracker Module, which is a type of audio file format used for music playback in various multimedia and video game applications. MTM files contain a set of music tracks, each of which can be played independently or together as a complete composition. The format is similar to other module file formats, such as MOD and S3M, but with some differences in how the data is stored and played back.
MTM files were popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, particularly in the demoscene and video game music communities. Today, they are less commonly used, but there are still some multimedia and gaming applications that support the format. To play an MTM file, you will need a media player or software that supports the format, such as Winamp or ModPlug Player.
Audio Channels of MTM
The number of channels that an MTM (MultiTracker Module) file supports can vary depending on how it was created and the specific software used to play it. In general, MTM files support a maximum of four channels of audio, which are typically divided into two stereo channels. This means that the file can contain up to four individual instrument or sample tracks that can be played simultaneously. Each track is assigned to a specific channel and can be panned left or right to control its position in the stereo field.
MTM files were originally designed for use in older personal computers and gaming consoles, which had limited hardware capabilities and could only play back a limited number of channels at once. The four-channel limit was therefore a practical limitation based on the available technology at the time. However, some newer software and hardware platforms may support higher channel counts for module files, depending on the specific implementation.
Small File Size and Lower Bit Rates
The bit rate of an MTM (MultiTracker Module) audio file can vary depending on the specific implementation and the software used to create it. In general, however, MTM files are relatively small and have a low bit rate compared to modern audio file formats.
MTM files use a type of audio compression known as sample-based synthesis, which generates audio using small, pre-recorded samples or waveforms rather than full digital audio data. This allows for relatively small file sizes and lower bit rates, but may result in lower audio quality and a limited range of sound.
The bit rate of an MTM file is typically expressed in kilobits per second (kbps) and can range from around 16 kbps to 128 kbps or higher, depending on the specific implementation and the number of channels used. However, because MTM files are typically used for music playback in older multimedia and gaming applications, they are not generally intended for high-fidelity audio reproduction and are more commonly used for their nostalgic value.
How to open MTM file?
To open an MTM (MultiTracker Module) file, you will need a media player or software that supports the MTM file format. Here are some options:
- ModPlug Player: ModPlug Player is a free media player that supports a wide range of module file formats, including MTM. You can download it from the internet and install it on your computer. Once installed, you can open your MTM file with the player and start playing the music.
- Winamp: Winamp is another media player that supports MTM files, as well as many other audio file formats. You can download and install the player on your computer and then use the “Open” option to browse for and open your MTM file.
