How to Convert Between Audio Formats
Converting audio files between formats is common when preparing music for different devices, uploading to platforms, or archiving recordings. Learn how to convert without unnecessary quality loss.
Key Takeaways
- Never convert from one lossy format to another (e.g., MP3 to AAC).
- This is the most common and safest conversion direction:
- CD-quality audio uses 44.1 kHz.
- ## The Golden Rule of Audio Conversion Never convert from one lossy format to another (e.
- Always convert from the highest-quality source available.
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The Golden Rule of Audio Conversion
Never convert from one lossy format to another (e.g., MP3 to AAC). Each lossy conversion discards more data, compounding quality loss. Always convert from the highest-quality source available.
Conversion Paths
Lossless to Lossy (Archival → Distribution)
This is the most common and safest conversion direction:
- WAV → MP3 (universal compatibility)
- FLAC → AAC (streaming platforms)
- WAV → OGG (web audio)
Lossless to Lossless (Format Migration)
Converting between lossless formats preserves perfect quality:
- WAV → FLAC (reduces size by ~50% with no quality loss)
- AIFF → WAV (cross-platform compatibility)
Lossy to Lossless (Packaging)
Converting MP3 to FLAC or WAV doesn't restore lost quality — it just wraps the decoded audio in a lossless container. The file gets larger without improving quality.
Bitrate Selection Guide
| Quality Level | MP3 | AAC | OGG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptable (speech) | 96 kbps | 64 kbps | 80 kbps |
| Good (podcasts) | 128 kbps | 96 kbps | 112 kbps |
| High (music) | 256 kbps | 192 kbps | 192 kbps |
| Transparent | 320 kbps | 256 kbps | 256 kbps |
Sample Rate Considerations
CD-quality audio uses 44.1 kHz. Video audio typically uses 48 kHz. Don't upsample (e.g., 44.1 to 48 kHz) unless required by a specific platform — it increases file size without adding information.
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