WAV (Waveform Audio File Format)
Definition
An uncompressed audio file format developed by Microsoft and IBM. The standard format for professional audio production, recording, and mastering. Supports multiple bit depths and sample rates.
In Simple Terms
The standard uncompressed audio format for professional work. When someone asks for your master, send a WAV. When you're recording or mixing, work in WAV. It's the full-quality, no-compromises format.
In Practice
A finished stereo mix is delivered to the mastering engineer as a 24-bit / 48 kHz WAV file, providing the highest quality uncompressed source for mastering processing.
Sources & Verification
- IBM Corporation & Microsoft Corporation — Multimedia Programming Interface and Data Specifications 1.0 (RIFF/WAV)IBM/Microsoft, 1991
- EBU Tech 3285 — Specification of the Broadcast Wave Format (BWF)European Broadcasting Union, 2011
Last verified: 2026-05-05