WAV Meaning and
Definition
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WAV is an acronym for Waveform Audio File Format. It is an uncompressed audio file format used to store digital audio data on computers. Widely supported by various media players and software applications, WAV files contain raw audio waveforms with high fidelity and retain the full dynamic range of the original recording.
The format was developed by Microsoft and IBM in the early 1990s as a standard for storing audio on Windows-based systems. WAV files are characterized by their audio quality, as they use pulse code modulation (PCM) to convert analog audio signals into digital representations. PCM preserves the original audio waveform by sampling it at regular intervals and assigning numerical values to the waveform amplitudes.
WAV files are typically large in size due to their uncompressed nature, as they store audio data without any loss of quality. This makes them ideal for professional audio production, archiving, and mastering purposes, where maintaining the highest quality is crucial. However, the large file size can also limit their practicality for certain applications, such as online streaming or sharing over limited bandwidth networks.
Despite the emergence of more advanced compressed audio formats like MP3 and AAC, WAV continues to be widely used in professional audio recording and editing. It is a common format for audio engineers, musicians, and producers who prioritize top-notch audio quality throughout the production process.
Common Misspellings for WAV
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