WAV file format
Waveform Audio File Format (.wav): recording, editing and mastering without quality loss.
WAV stores raw, uncompressed audio — exactly what a microphone or CD captured. That is ideal for recording and editing because nothing is lost, but a minute of CD-quality stereo takes about 10 MB, ten times more than an MP3.
| Full name | Waveform Audio File Format |
|---|---|
| File extension | .wav, .wave |
| MIME type | audio/wav |
| Created | 1991 by Microsoft and IBM |
| Compression | Uncompressed |
| Typical bitrate | 1,411 kbps (CD quality) |
| Size | about 10 MB per minute |
| Plays on | Every computer, editor and most players |
| Best for | recording, editing and mastering without quality loss |
Advantages
- Perfect, uncompressed quality
- Supported by every audio editor
Drawbacks
- Huge files
- Limited metadata (tags, cover art)
Convert WAV to…
Convert to WAV
Frequently asked questions
What is a .wav file?
WAV stores raw, uncompressed audio — exactly what a microphone or CD captured. That is ideal for recording and editing because nothing is lost, but a minute of CD-quality stereo takes about 10 MB, ten times more than an MP3.
How do I open a WAV file?
WAV files open on Every computer, editor and most players. If a program will not open yours, convert it to a more common format.
Is WAV lossless?
WAV is usually uncompressed, so it is lossless — and large.
How do I convert WAV?
Use one of the converters below — they run in your browser, so your audio files are never uploaded. Most popular: WAV to MP3, WAV to M4A, WAV to FLAC.