I have a question for someone that knows more about this then I do .... is there any difference in the quality or resolution between MP3 converters or do they all convert to the same frequencies ? I'm using FREERIP now to convert to MP3's but was wondering if unlocking the converter in sonar would be any different in sound quality ? or is there a better one out there ?

I'm using Audacity and the mp3 encoder quality (using LAME library) is determined by the Bit Rate setup (from low 8 kbps to high 320 kbps).

   I unlocked the mp3 encoder in SONAR simply because I prefer to export the mp3 in one step rather than 2 (by offloading the wave and using a second program). I often will offload something on the fly to someone I am talking to, and it is more convenient.
 
   The encoder for SONAR has a few nuances, in that the interface always resets to its default values (for me anyway). So before exporting, you need to select all tracks (Ctrl-A) and on the first export window choose a Bit Depth of "16 bit" for the project. On the second pop-up you can choose a bit rate from 32-320kbs.
 
   Michael

Thanks guys ... I knew the quality of the mp3 was determined by the bit rate ... didn't know if all encoders at the same bit rate would produce the same quality conversion .... you know how some plugins will "color" a sound, and at what bit rate is recommended for mp3 files ... I know there is a difference in the sound from wave to mp3 ... the mp3 files sound a little flat compared to the wave .. 

"The same" is a pretty subjective issue. Not all MP3 encoders would be expected to produce identical output using the same input (wave) file and the same bitrate setting. Most MP3 encoders use the LAME algorithm which has been released in various versions over the years, some use the Frauhofer algorithm which is the one that claims to have patent protection for the MP3. The various versions would be expected to produce somewhat different output bit for bit from each other. Whether you would be able to hear a difference is another issue entirely.

You'll find that most encoding systems are using the Lame encoding library anyway. the only differences are usually in the frontend or User Interface.