what's the best CLUSTER SIZE for storing MP3s on NTFS

[dpopiz]

for the best performance, what should it be?

 

[dawks]

Performance really isnt the issue when dealing with MP3s. The files are so small, and accessed so 'infrequently'.

The big issue is an optimal use of space.. If you use too small a cluster size >4kb, your using alot of overhead for cluster data... if you use too large a cluster size, you end up wasting alot of space. ie. If you used 1meg clusters and your typical MP3 is 5.4 megs.. each MP3 will take 6megs, therefore a 1000 MP3s means 600megs wasted.

I'd say a nice size for typical MP3's (5-8megs) would be something like 16kb, assuming your only storing MP3s. With something like DVD's and or even DivX files.. 1meg cluster sizes are nice, it helps when it comes to fragmentation issues.