Embedded adaptive differential pulse coded modulation (ADPCM) algorithms quantize the differences between the input signal and the estimated signal into core bits and enhancement bits. CCITT Recommendation G.727, which describes embedded ADPCM encoding algorithms with 5, 4, 3, and 2 core bits, is virtually identical to the corresponding ANSI standard T1.310. The main features of G.727 and T1.310 and performance results are presented. A formal subjective evaluation of the speech performance of embedded ADPCM algorithms indicates that a midrise quantizer provides better voice transmission performance than its midtread counterpart when two core bits are used. The subjective data also show that the performance of the 40-kb/s midrise ADPCM algorithm with two feedback bits is indistinguishable from that of 64-kb/s pulse code modulation (PCM) for up to four tandem encodings. Embedded algorithms are therefore recommended for flexible congestion control of integrated traffic in multinode networks.>