AIFF stands for Audio Interchange File Format, which is an uncompressed audio file format commonly used on Apple Macintosh computers. It was developed by Apple Inc. in 1988 as an alternative to the widely-used WAV format. AIFF files contain audio data in a raw, unprocessed form, making them larger in size compared to compressed audio formats such as MP3.
AIFF files are primarily used for high-quality audio recordings and music production. They can store stereo and mono audio data with various bit depths (such as 8, 16, or 24 bits) and sample rates (up to 192 kHz), providing excellent sound quality and preserving the originality of the audio.
Due to its uncompressed nature, AIFF is often preferred by professionals and audio enthusiasts for tasks such as editing, mastering, and archiving. Additionally, AIFF files are compatible with a wide range of audio software applications and hardware devices, making them highly versatile.
While AIFF offers excellent audio quality, the large file sizes can be a drawback, requiring significant storage space. Many users tend to convert AIFF files to compressed formats for easier handling and sharing, especially for web or portable device use.
In summary, AIFF is an uncompressed audio file format primarily used on Macintosh computers, known for its high-quality audio reproduction and compatibility with various audio software and hardware.
