XWMA File – What is .xwma file and how to open it?
XWMA File Extension
Microsoft xWMA Compressed Audio – file format by Microsoft
XWMA is a Microsoft-developed lossy audio compression format that uses the Windows Media Audio (WMA) codec. It was designed for streaming audio over the internet and is similar to WMA but with a smaller file size.
XWMA File Overview
XWMA (Microsoft xWMA Compressed Audio) files are proprietary audio files used by Microsoft’s Windows Media Player and other compatible software. These files are compressed using the Windows Media Audio (WMA) codec, developed by Microsoft and based on the MPEG-4 audio compression standard. XWMA files are designed to offer a high level of audio quality with smaller file sizes compared to uncompressed audio formats.
Technical Details and Compatibility
XWMA files utilize the WMA Pro codec, which employs a lossy compression algorithm. This means that some audio data is discarded during compression to reduce file size. Despite the lossy nature of the algorithm, XWMA files generally provide a good balance between audio quality and file size. XWMA files are typically compatible with various media players and devices that support the WMA format, including Windows Media Player, VLC Media Player, and mobile devices with compatible software. However, support for XWMA files may vary depending on the specific device and software.
Opening XWMA Files with Native Applications
XWMA files are exclusively supported by Microsoft’s Windows Media Player, which is pre-installed on most Windows operating systems. Once installed, simply right-click on the XWMA file and select “Open with…” or “Play with Windows Media Player” to launch the file. Windows Media Player provides a comprehensive audio playback experience with features like adjustable playback speed, equalizer settings, and support for various audio formats.
Using Third-Party Media Players
Alternatively, users can opt for third-party media players that support XWMA playback. Popular options include VLC Media Player, Foobar2000, and MediaMonkey. These players provide a wider range of customization options and features than Windows Media Player, such as support for additional audio formats, plugins, and advanced streaming capabilities. To open an XWMA file using a third-party player, simply install the software and drag and drop the file onto the player’s interface or use the “Open File” option in the File menu. Once imported, users can enjoy high-quality audio playback with various playback controls and additional features offered by the player.
XWMA: Microsoft’s Proprietary Audio Codec
XWMA (pronounced “ex-wma”) is a proprietary audio file format developed by Microsoft. It is an advanced version of the WMA (Windows Media Audio) format that incorporates several enhancements, including improved compression algorithms and support for higher bitrates. As a result, XWMA files typically offer better audio quality than standard WMA files, making them suitable for demanding applications such as high-fidelity music streaming and playback.
Technical Characteristics and Compatibility
XWMA files are typically lossless, meaning that they do not introduce any audible distortion during compression. They utilize a variable bitrate encoding scheme that dynamically adjusts the data rate based on the complexity of the audio content. This ensures that important audio elements are encoded with higher bitrates, while less critical portions are encoded with lower bitrates, resulting in efficient file sizes without compromising audio quality. XWMA files are primarily associated with the Windows Media Player software, but they can also be played on other media players that support the XWMA codec.