Kid3 Tag Editor - Detailed Review

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Kid3 Tag Editor - Detailed Review Contents
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Kid3 Tag Editor - Product Overview



Introduction to Kid3 Tag Editor

Kid3 is an open-source, cross-platform audio tag editor that is highly versatile and user-friendly, making it an excellent tool for managing audio file metadata.



Primary Function

The primary function of Kid3 is to edit and manage the tags of various audio file formats. This includes editing ID3 tags for MP3 files, as well as tags for other formats such as Ogg/Vorbis, FLAC, MPC, APE, MP4/AAC, and many more.



Target Audience

Kid3 is targeted at individuals who have large collections of audio files and need to organize and categorize them efficiently. This includes music enthusiasts, audiophiles, and anyone who manages a significant number of audio files across different formats.



Key Features



Tag Editing and Conversion

Kid3 allows users to edit and convert between ID3v1.1, ID3v2.3, and ID3v2.4 tags. It provides access to all tag fields and supports a wide range of audio file formats.



Batch Editing

Users can edit the tags of multiple files simultaneously, which is particularly useful for managing entire albums or collections.



Automatic Tag Generation

Kid3 can generate tags from filenames or from the contents of other tag fields. It also allows users to generate filenames from tags and rename directories based on tag information.



Import from Online Databases

The software integrates with various online music databases such as MusicBrainz, Discogs, Amazon, and gnudb.org, making it easy to import metadata and cover art for multiple albums.



Playlist and Export Options

Kid3 can generate playlist files and export tags in various formats, including CSV, HTML, and Kover XML. It also supports the import of exported CSV files.



Additional Tools

The program includes features like automatic case conversion, string replacement, and the ability to search and filter files by tags. It also supports synchronized lyrics and their import/export to LRC Karaoke files.



Cross-Platform Compatibility

Kid3 is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring it can be used across different operating systems.

In summary, Kid3 is a powerful and user-friendly audio tag editor that offers a wide range of features to help users efficiently manage their audio file collections.

Kid3 Tag Editor - User Interface and Experience



User Interface Overview

The user interface of Kid3 Tag Editor is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it an excellent tool for managing audio file tags.

Interface Design

Kid3 features a well-structured and simple interface, which is a significant advantage for users. The application operates within a single window, making it easy to manage and edit audio tags without the clutter of multiple windows.

Ease of Use

The interface is very easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy. You can drag and drop files directly into the application, or use the file explorer and folder view to import your audio files. This drag-and-drop functionality, along with the ability to select multiple files at once, streamlines the process of editing tags efficiently.

Editing Tags

When editing tags, you can change various fields such as the title, artist, album, comment, date, track number, and genre. Kid3 also allows you to add new tags if they are not listed, providing flexibility in how you categorize your audio files. The ability to generate tags from file names or other tag fields, and to rename folders based on tags, further simplifies the organization process.

Additional Features

Kid3 includes several useful features that enhance the user experience. For example, you can import album data from sources like MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon, and export data to generate playlists. The application also supports synchronized lyrics and can convert between different ID3 versions (ID3v1.1, ID3v2.3, and ID3v2.4).

Cross-Platform Compatibility

One of the standout features of Kid3 is its cross-platform compatibility. It works on Linux, Windows, macOS, and even Android, making it a versatile tool regardless of your operating system.

User Experience

The overall user experience with Kid3 is positive due to its simplicity and efficiency. Users can quickly and easily manage their audio libraries by editing tags in bulk, which saves a significant amount of time. The application’s ability to handle multiple file formats and its automatic case conversion and string replacement features help maintain consistent tags, ensuring your music library remains well-organized.

Conclusion

In summary, Kid3 Tag Editor offers a straightforward, easy-to-use interface that makes managing audio tags a breeze, regardless of the user’s technical background. Its intuitive design and extensive features make it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to organize their music library efficiently.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website

Kid3 Tag Editor - Key Features and Functionality



Key Features of Kid3 Tag Editor



User-Friendly Interface

Kid3 boasts an intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all levels to edit and manage music metadata. This user-friendly design ensures that you can quickly and comfortably organize your music library without needing extensive technical knowledge.



Batch Editing

One of the most significant features of Kid3 is its batch editing capability. This allows you to edit multiple files simultaneously, saving you a considerable amount of time. You can set tags such as artist, album, year, and genre for all files in an album with just a few clicks.



Support for Various Formats

Kid3 supports a wide range of audio formats, including MP3, OGG/Vorbis, FLAC, MPC, MP4/AAC, MP2, Opus, Speex, TrueAudio, WavPack, WMA, WAV, AIFF, and even tracker modules like MOD, S3M, IT, and XM. This versatility makes it a comprehensive tool for managing diverse music libraries.



Versatile Tag Editing

Kid3 allows you to edit various types of tags, including ID3v1, ID3v2.3, ID3v2.4, MP4, Vorbis comments, and APE tags. You can also convert between ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags, ensuring compatibility across different music players and platforms.



Renaming Files and Directories

Kid3 enables you to rename files and directories based on their tags. This feature helps maintain a well-organized music library by ensuring that file names reflect the correct metadata, such as artist, album, and track title.



Exporting and Importing Metadata

You can easily export and import metadata in various formats like CSV, HTML, playlist files, and more. This feature is particularly useful for transferring data between different music players and platforms. Kid3 also supports importing data from sources like MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon.



Generating Tags from Filenames

Kid3 can generate tags from the filenames of your audio files. This is especially useful if your files are named in a structured format (e.g., “Artist – Album/Track – Song”). The software can extract relevant information from the filenames and populate the corresponding tags.



Playlist Management

Kid3 includes features for managing playlists. You can create, edit, and reorder playlist items. The new version of Kid3 also introduces enhanced playlist editor functions, making it easier to manage your playlists.



Cross-Platform Compatibility

Kid3 is available for Windows, Mac, Linux, and even Android, making it a versatile tool that can be used across different operating systems.



Free and Open Source

Kid3 is completely free to download and use, with no hidden costs or subscriptions. Being open source, it is actively maintained and updated to ensure compatibility with the latest audio formats and software updates.



AI Integration

There is no explicit mention of AI integration in the available resources. Kid3’s functionality is based on its powerful features and user-friendly interface, but it does not appear to utilize AI-driven technologies for its operations.

Kid3 Tag Editor - Performance and Accuracy



Performance of Kid3 Tag Editor

Kid3 Tag Editor is renowned for its efficient and versatile performance in managing audio tags across a wide range of file formats, including MP3, Ogg/Vorbis, FLAC, MPC, MP4/AAC, and many more.



Speed and Efficiency

Kid3 has seen significant improvements in performance over its versions. For instance, version 3.4.5 introduced faster expansion and filtering of the file list, reducing memory usage and avoiding GUI updates during these operations.



Multi-File Handling

It excels in editing tags for multiple files simultaneously, which is particularly useful for managing full albums or large music collections. This feature allows users to set common tags such as artist, album, year, and genre for all files in a batch.



Command-Line Interface

Kid3 offers a command-line version that can run on systems without a UI, allowing for faster execution and automation of tasks using scripts and CLI commands.



Accuracy and Feature Set



Tag Format Support

Kid3 supports both ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags, including the ability to convert between these formats and edit all ID3v2.3 and ID3v2.4 frames. It also handles other tag formats like APE, Vorbis, and RIFF INFO tags.



Tag Import and Export

The software allows importing tags from various sources such as MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon, and exporting tags in formats like CSV, HTML, and playlists. This ensures high accuracy in tag data.



Advanced Tagging Features

Kid3 supports editing synchronized lyrics, event timing codes, and importing/exporting LRC files. It also allows generating tags from filenames and vice versa, as well as renaming and creating directories based on tags.



Customization and Automation

Users can automate tasks using QML/JavaScript scripts, D-Bus, or the command-line interface. This flexibility is particularly useful for power users who need to perform repetitive tasks efficiently.



Limitations and Areas for Improvement



Compatibility Issues

While Kid3 is highly versatile, some users may encounter compatibility issues with certain music players or software. For example, there have been reports of issues with Audirvana not handling multiple tags correctly, even though Kid3 tags them accurately.



User Interface

Although Kid3 is feature-rich, its user interface might not be as intuitive for beginners. However, the software’s extensive documentation and community support help mitigate this issue.



Platform-Specific Issues

There have been occasional platform-specific bugs, such as crashes on Windows 64-bit or issues with Android versions. However, these are typically addressed in subsequent updates.



Conclusion

Kid3 Tag Editor stands out for its performance, accuracy, and comprehensive feature set. It is highly efficient in managing audio tags and offers a wide range of customization and automation options. While there may be some compatibility issues and platform-specific bugs, the software’s active development and community support ensure that these are regularly addressed. Overall, Kid3 is a reliable and powerful tool for anyone looking to manage their music library’s metadata effectively.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website

Kid3 Tag Editor - Pricing and Plans



The Pricing Structure of Kid3 Tag Editor

The pricing structure of Kid3 Tag Editor is straightforward and user-friendly, focusing on accessibility rather than multiple tiers or subscription plans.



Free to Use

Kid3 Tag Editor is completely free to download and use. There are no hidden costs, subscriptions, or trial periods. You can use all the features of the software without any financial commitment.



Donationware

Although the software is free, it is classified as donationware. This means that while you are not required to pay, the developers appreciate donations to support the ongoing development and maintenance of the software.



Features

The free version of Kid3 Tag Editor includes a wide range of features such as:

  • Batch editing of multiple files
  • Support for various audio formats (MP3, OGG, FLAC, MPC, MP4/AAC, etc.)
  • Editing of ID3v1, ID3v2.3, ID3v2.4, MP4, Vorbis comments, and APE tags
  • Renaming files based on their tags
  • Exporting and importing metadata
  • Generating tags from filenames and contents of tag fields
  • Creating playlists and more.


Summary

In summary, Kid3 Tag Editor offers a single, free plan with all features included, and users are encouraged to make donations to support the software’s development.

Kid3 Tag Editor - Integration and Compatibility



Kid3 Tag Editor Overview

Kid3 Tag Editor is a versatile and widely compatible audio metadata editor that integrates well with various tools and platforms. Here are some key points regarding its integration and compatibility:



Cross-Platform Compatibility

Kid3 is available on multiple platforms, including macOS, Windows, and Linux. This makes it a convenient choice for users across different operating systems.



File Format Support

Kid3 supports a broad range of audio file formats, such as MP3, Ogg/Vorbis, DSF, FLAC, Opus, MPC, APE, MP4/AAC, MP2, Speex, TrueAudio, WavPack, WMA, WAV, AIFF, and tracker files. This extensive support ensures that users can manage metadata for almost any type of audio file they encounter.



Tag Editing and Conversion

The tool allows for comprehensive editing of ID3 tags, including the ability to convert between ID3v1.1, ID3v2.3, and ID3v2.4. It also supports editing and managing synchronized lyrics, which can be imported and exported to LRC Karaoke files.



Integration with Online Databases

Kid3 can import album data from various online databases such as gnudb.org, MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon. This feature enables automatic batch import for multiple folders, making it easier to manage large music libraries.



Batch Operations and Automation

Users can set tags for multiple files simultaneously, generate tags from file names or other tag fields, and rename files and folders based on tags. Automatic case conversion and string replacement features help maintain consistent tags across the library.



CLI and GUI Options

For users who prefer command-line interfaces, Kid3 includes a CLI version that can be found within the application bundle on macOS or can be used similarly on other platforms. This provides flexibility for those who prefer scripting or command-line operations.



Accessibility and Other Environments

Kid3 is built using KDE Frameworks, but for users of other desktop environments, there is an alternative version called Kid3-qt that does not depend on KDE. This ensures that the tool can be used across different Linux desktop environments without compatibility issues.



Installation on Linux

On Linux, Kid3 can be easily installed using the Snap package manager, which supports various distributions such as Ubuntu, Arch Linux, CentOS, and more. This makes installation straightforward and accessible for Linux users.



Conclusion

In summary, Kid3 Tag Editor offers broad compatibility, extensive file format support, and seamless integration with online databases and other tools, making it a highly versatile and user-friendly audio metadata editor.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website

Kid3 Tag Editor - Customer Support and Resources



Customer Support Options

For users of the Kid3 Tag Editor, several customer support options and additional resources are available to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.



Documentation and Handbooks

Kid3 provides comprehensive documentation, including the Kid3 Handbook, which is available online and as a PDF. This handbook covers all aspects of using Kid3, from introduction and basic usage to advanced features like editing tags, generating filenames from tags, and importing data from various sources such as gnudb.org, MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon.



Command Reference and GUI Guide

The documentation includes a detailed command reference that explains how to use keyboard shortcuts and various GUI sections. This helps users to efficiently edit tags, manage files, and perform other tasks within the application.



Release Notes and Updates

Users can stay updated with the latest features, improvements, and bug fixes through the release notes. These notes detail new functionalities, such as support for WebP format, improved macOS building, and fixes for various issues.



Community and Forums

Although the specific website provided does not mention dedicated forums or community support, users can often find help through KDE community forums and other open-source software communities where Kid3 is discussed.



D-Bus Interface and QML Scripting

For advanced users, Kid3 offers a D-Bus interface and QML scripting capabilities, which allow for automated tasks and customizations. The documentation includes examples and API details for these features.



Nightly Installers and Testing

Users who want to test the latest developments can download nightly installers, which are intended for testing purposes. This allows users to provide feedback and help improve the application.



Installation Guides

The documentation also includes installation guides for different platforms, ensuring that users can easily set up Kid3 on their systems, whether it be on Windows, macOS, or Linux.



Conclusion

By leveraging these resources, users of Kid3 can find comprehensive support and guidance to make the most out of the application.

Kid3 Tag Editor - Pros and Cons



Advantages of Kid3 Tag Editor



User-Friendly Interface

Kid3 boasts a simple and well-structured interface, making it easy to use with just one window. You can easily import songs or covers using the file browser, folder view, or the ‘drag and drop’ feature.



Cross-Platform Compatibility

Kid3 is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Linux (KDE or Qt), Windows, macOS, and Android. This versatility makes it a great tool for users across different platforms.



Extensive File Format Support

Kid3 supports a wide range of audio file formats, including MP3, Ogg/Vorbis, FLAC, MPC, MP4/AAC, MP2, Opus, Speex, TrueAudio, WavPack, WMA, WAV, AIFF, and even tracker modules like MOD, S3M, IT, and XM.



Comprehensive Tag Editing

You can edit ID3v1.1, ID3v2.3, and ID3v2.4 tags, as well as convert between these versions. It also allows editing of multiple files at once, which is particularly useful for setting uniform tags for an entire album.



Batch Processing and Automation

Kid3 enables batch tagging, allowing you to edit tags of multiple files simultaneously. You can also automate tasks using QML/JavaScript, D-Bus, or the command-line interface.



Data Import and Export

The software can import data from various sources such as MusicBrainz, Discogs, Amazon, and more. It also supports exporting tags in several formats like CSV, HTML, playlists, and Kover XML.



Additional Features

Kid3 includes features like generating tags from filenames, renaming and creating directories from tags, generating playlist files, and editing synchronized lyrics and event timing codes.



Disadvantages of Kid3 Tag Editor



Basic User Interface

While the interface is easy to use, some users might find it a bit basic and lacking in visual appeal. This could be a drawback for those who prefer more modern or aesthetically pleasing interfaces.



Limited Visual Customization

There is no significant option for customizing the appearance of the interface, which might not appeal to users who prefer a more personalized look.



No Major Drawbacks but Room for Improvement

Overall, Kid3 covers a lot of bases and is highly functional, but it does not have any major drawbacks other than the basic UI. However, this simplicity can also be seen as a positive aspect for those who value ease of use over advanced visuals.

In summary, Kid3 Tag Editor is a highly useful tool for managing audio file tags, offering extensive features and compatibility, but it may lack in terms of visual appeal and customization options.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website

Kid3 Tag Editor - Comparison with Competitors



When Comparing Kid3 Tag Editor with Other Music Tag Editing Products

Several key features and differences stand out.



Unique Features of Kid3

  • Comprehensive Tag Support: Kid3 stands out for its ability to edit both ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags, as well as tags in a wide range of file formats including MP3, Ogg/Vorbis, Opus, DSF, FLAC, MPC, APE, MP4/AAC, MP2, Speex, TrueAudio, WavPack, WMA, WAV, AIFF, and tracker modules (MOD, S3M, IT, XM).
  • Batch Editing: Kid3 allows users to edit tags of multiple files simultaneously, which is particularly useful for managing entire albums or collections.
  • Tag Generation and Conversion: It can generate tags from filenames and vice versa, and also convert between ID3v1 and ID3v2 formats. Additionally, it supports generating filenames and folder names from tags.
  • Import and Export: Kid3 can import data from sources like MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon, and export tags in various formats such as CSV, HTML, and Kover XML.
  • Scripting and Automation: It supports automation using QML/JavaScript, D-Bus, or the command-line interface, making it highly customizable.


Alternatives and Their Features



Mp3tag

  • Cross-Platform: Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
  • Batch Editing: Similar to Kid3, it supports batch editing and renaming files.
  • Scripting: Supports scripting for advanced users.
  • Automatic Album Art Download: A feature that Kid3 does not have built-in, though it can be achieved through external scripts.


MusicBrainz Picard

  • Album-Oriented: Unlike Kid3, which is track/file-oriented, Picard focuses on albums.
  • Acoustic Fingerprinting: Uses AcoustID audio fingerprints for automatic tagging.
  • Extensible by Plugins: Highly extensible with plugins and extensions.
  • Cross-Platform: Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.


MediaMonkey

  • Media Player and Library Manager: Besides tagging, it also functions as a media player and library manager.
  • Advanced Features: Includes features like podcasting, syncing, and automatic lyrics finding.
  • Extensible by Plugins: Supports plugins and extensions for additional functionality.
  • Android Compatibility: Available on Android, which Kid3 is not.


Puddletag

  • Spreadsheet-Like Interface: Uses a unique spreadsheet-like layout for editing tags.
  • Batch Rename Files: Supports batch renaming and is primarily designed for GNU/Linux users.
  • Portable: Can be run from a portable drive.


Other Notable Alternatives

  • EasyTAG: A free audio tag editor with a simple interface, available on multiple platforms.
  • TagScanner: Another free tool that organizes music collections and supports various tag formats.
  • MetatOGGer: Focuses on optimizing music file organization and supports multiple tag formats.


Conclusion

Kid3 is a powerful tool with a broad range of features, particularly its comprehensive support for various audio file formats and its ability to handle both ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags. However, users looking for specific features like acoustic fingerprinting or a more album-oriented approach might find MusicBrainz Picard more suitable. Those needing a media player and library manager in addition to tagging capabilities might prefer MediaMonkey. Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Kid3 Tag Editor - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kid3 Tag Editor, along with detailed responses:

How do I install Kid3 on my Linux system?

To install Kid3 on Linux, you can use the Snap Store or the package manager of your distribution. For example, on Ubuntu, you can open a terminal and use the following commands:

sudo apt-get install kid3

If Kid3 is not available in the official repositories, you can add the PPA and then install it:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:ufleisch/kid3
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install kid3

Alternatively, you can install it using Snap:

sudo snap install kid3


What file formats does Kid3 support?

Kid3 supports a wide range of audio file formats, including MP3, Ogg/Vorbis, Opus, DSF, FLAC, MPC, APE, MP4/AAC, MP2, Speex, TrueAudio, WavPack, WMA, WAV, AIFF, and tracker modules (MOD, S3M, IT, XM).



How can I edit ID3 tags in multiple files at once?

Kid3 allows you to edit tags of multiple files simultaneously. You can select all files in a folder, and then set common tags such as artist, album, year, and genre for all files at once. This can be done by selecting all files, entering the desired tag values, and then saving the changes.



Can I generate tags from file names or vice versa?

Yes, Kid3 allows you to generate tags from file names and vice versa. You can use the “To: Tag 1” or “To: Tag 2” buttons to set tags from the filename, and the “From: Tag 1” or “From: Tag 2” buttons to set the filename from the tags. You can also customize the format used for this process.



How do I import album data from external sources?

Kid3 supports importing album data from various sources such as gnudb.org, MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon. You can perform an automatic batch import for multiple folders by using the import features available in the application.



Can I export data and generate playlists?

Yes, Kid3 allows you to export data in various formats such as CSV, HTML, playlist, Kover XML, and more. You can also generate playlist files (e.g., M3U files) from the tags of your audio files.



How do I edit synchronized lyrics in Kid3?

To edit synchronized lyrics, you need to select a file with an ID3v2 tag, enter the lyrics editor, and select the “Syn-” option. This allows you to edit and manage synchronized lyrics, which can also be imported and exported to LRC Karaoke files.



Can I convert between ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags?

Yes, Kid3 has the capability to convert between ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags. You can convert ID3v1.1 tags to ID3v2.3 or ID3v2.4, and vice versa, ensuring compatibility with different players and systems.



How do I rename folders and files based on tags?

Kid3 allows you to generate and change folder names and file names based on the tags. You can use the “Apply filename format” and “Apply tag format” options to set the filenames and folder names according to the tag values.



What other advanced features does Kid3 offer?

Kid3 offers several advanced features, including automatic case conversion, string translation, and the ability to execute programs or QML scripts. It also supports D-Bus interface and QML interface for more customized operations.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website

Kid3 Tag Editor - Conclusion and Recommendation



Final Assessment of Kid3 Tag Editor

Kid3 Tag Editor is a versatile and functional tool for managing audio file metadata, supporting a wide range of file formats including MP3, FLAC, Ogg/Vorbis, and many more.



Key Features

  • Tag Editing: Kid3 allows users to edit ID3v1 and ID3v2 tags, as well as tags for other formats like FLAC and Ogg/Vorbis. It also supports converting between different ID3 tag versions.
  • Metadata Management: Users can copy metadata between tags and between tags and filenames, making it easy to keep file names and tags consistent. It also supports generating tags from file names and vice versa.
  • Online Database Integration: Kid3 integrates with multiple online music databases such as MusicBrainz, Discogs, and Amazon, allowing users to import album data, cover art, and other metadata with ease.
  • Playlist Creation: The tool can create m3u playlists and play media files directly within the application.
  • Additional Tools: It includes features like automatic case conversion, string replacement, and the ability to add numbering systems to tracks. Users can also search for lyrics, album covers, and more using context menu options.


User Benefits

Kid3 is particularly beneficial for:

  • Music Collectors: Those with large music libraries will appreciate the ability to manage and organize their files efficiently.
  • Audio Professionals: DJs, music producers, and audio engineers can use Kid3 to ensure all their files are properly tagged and organized.
  • Cross-Platform Users: Since Kid3 is available on Windows, Linux, and macOS, it is a good choice for users who work across different operating systems.


User Experience

While Kid3 is highly functional, its interface is described as somewhat unpolished and a bit awkward. However, the program’s core functionality works well, and it is regularly updated to fix issues and add new features.



Recommendations

For anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich audio tag editor, Kid3 is a solid choice. Here are a few points to consider:

  • Ease of Use: Despite the interface being a bit rough, the program is relatively easy to use, especially for those familiar with tag editing.
  • Portability: Kid3 does not require installation, making it a portable application that can be used on different computers without hassle.
  • Community Support: With active development and a community-driven approach, Kid3 continues to improve and add new features.

In summary, Kid3 Tag Editor is a reliable and versatile tool that, despite some minor interface issues, offers a wide range of features that make it an excellent choice for managing audio file metadata. It is highly recommended for anyone needing to organize and tag their music files efficiently.

Kid3 Tag Editor Website
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