Audio format
The WAV format
WAV is uncompressed, studio-quality audio. Microsoft and IBM introduced WAV in 1991; it has been the default uncompressed format of Windows and audio editors ever since.
When to use WAV
Use WAV while editing and for systems that demand it, such as phone systems, samplers and some broadcast tools.
It is best for editing, mastering and software that insists on WAV, and it opens on every computer, audio editor and DAW, and most phones.
How to open it: Every computer plays WAV files, and every audio editor imports them.
| Full name | Waveform Audio File |
|---|---|
| Extensions | .wav, .wave |
| MIME type | audio/wav |
| Introduced | 1991 |
| Compression | Uncompressed |
| Typical quality | 16-bit PCM, 44.1 or 48 kHz |
| Support | Opens everywhere |
| Typical size | About 10 MB a minute at CD quality |
Good at
- No quality loss at all
- Every audio editor opens it instantly
- Starts and stops sample-accurately
Not so good at
- About 10 MB a minute for CD-quality stereo
- Too big for chat apps and email
The common mistake
A WAV made from an MP3 is ten times bigger but sounds exactly like the MP3; the lost detail doesn’t come back.
Convert WAV to another audio format
Convert to WAV from
Compare WAV with
Questions
What is a WAV file?
WAV (Waveform Audio File) is uncompressed, studio-quality audio. Microsoft and IBM introduced WAV in 1991; it has been the default uncompressed format of Windows and audio editors ever since.
How do I open a WAV file?
Every computer plays WAV files, and every audio editor imports them.
How do I convert WAV to another format?
Pick the target on this page, or open the Audio Converter, drop the WAV file and choose a format. It converts in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.