WAVE File – What is .wave file and how to open it?
WAVE File Extension
WAVE Sound File – file format by Microsoft & IBM
WAVE (WAVE Sound File) is a Microsoft and IBM-developed audio file format that stores uncompressed audio data. It is commonly used for storing and playing digital audio files, such as music and sound effects.
WAVE File Format
A WAVE file, also known as WAVE Sound File, is a digital audio file format developed by Microsoft and IBM. It is a container format for storing audio data, typically uncompressed. WAVE files have become the de facto standard for storing audio on Windows-based systems.
The WAVE file format consists of a header chunk followed by data chunks. The header chunk contains information about the file, such as the sampling rate, bit depth, and number of channels. The data chunks contain the actual audio data. WAVE files can store audio in various formats, including PCM, AIFF, and ADPCM. Due to its uncompressed nature, WAVE files are typically larger in size compared to compressed audio formats such as MP3 or AAC. However, they offer higher audio quality and are often used in professional audio applications where fidelity is critical.
How to Open WAVE File Using Software
To open a WAVE file, you can utilize various audio playback software or media players. One widely used option is VLC Media Player, a free and open-source player compatible with numerous audio and video formats, including WAVE. Simply download and install VLC Media Player, launch the program, and drag and drop the WAVE file onto the player window. Alternatively, you can use the File menu to open the file directly. VLC Media Player will then decode and play the audio data stored in the file.
How to Open WAVE File Online
If you prefer not to install software on your device, you can open a WAVE file online using web-based audio players. One convenient option is Online Audio Converter, a free web service that supports a wide range of audio formats, including WAVE. Visit the website, click the “Open files” button, and select your WAVE file from the file browser. The file will be uploaded and automatically played back in the browser.
Development and Use:
Microsoft and IBM collaboratively developed the WAVE file format in 1991 as a standard for digital audio storage on Windows and OS/2 operating systems. Its widespread adoption made it a ubiquitous format for various audio applications, from personal computers to professional recording software. WAVE files are commonly used for storing uncompressed audio data, allowing for high-fidelity audio playback.
Technical Specifications:
A WAVE file consists of a series of chunks, with the “RIFF” header chunk identifying the file as a WAVE file. Following this is the “fmt ” chunk, which contains information about the audio format, including sample rate, bit depth, and number of channels. The “data” chunk contains the actual audio data, typically in the uncompressed Pulse-Code Modulation (PCM) format. WAVE files can support a wide range of sample rates, bit depths, and channel configurations, making them suitable for various audio applications. They also offer metadata storage capabilities, allowing for additional information such as artist, title, and album to be included in the file.