■ What are soft subtitles?
There are different kinds of subtitles.
“Hard subtitles” or “hardsubs” refer to subtitle text which has been incorporated into the video file
itself during the encoding process. They are no longer text existing independent of the video, but
rather part of each image frame that the video consists of. A euphemistic expression of this is that the
text has been permanently burnt into the video, much like a tattoo is etched into the skin. (It is not
possible to show/hide hard subtitles in a video player.)
“Soft subtitles” or “softsubs” refer to the subtitle text that exists independently from the RAW video /
audio data. In this case, the text is not a tattoo etched into the skin, but rather a sticker that can be
slapped on and peeled off as necessary. (i.e. The video / audio file can be played with or without the
subtitles being displayed.)
■ What is an LRC file?
An LRC file is essentially a text file that has been formatted in such a way that it can be used by
audio playback / media player programs to display soft subtitles. The file is generally used to store
song lyrics and timing information for displaying the lyrics while a song is playing. LRC files can
also be used to store translated dialogue text and timing information for displaying the dialogue text
while playing an audio drama / voice work audio file in a supported program.
LRC files usually have the same filename as the audio file they are associated with.
For example, the LRC file for the audio file “audioB.mp3” would be “audioB.lrc”
■ How to Use LRC files / View Soft Subtitle LRC files with RAW audio files
You will need to have both the Japanese RAW audio file and the respective soft subtitles LRC file.
It is recommended to save all files in the same location, and for the LRC file and respective audio
file to have the same file name. (e.g. “audioB.mp3” and “audioB.lrc”).
Use a LRC supporting program to open the audio file and respective LRC file.
■ LRC format supporting programs
We have provided a couple examples of software we are aware have .lrc file support.
- GOM Audio Player
- Microsoft Windows Media Player with VividLyrics Karaoke Plugin
(Note: What you install is entirely up to you. Please perform your own independent research on the topic of .lrc format supporting software before making a conclusion on what software you would prefer to use.)