What is a WAV File?

A WAV file is a digital audio file format used to store high-quality sound without compression. The format preserves the full detail of the original recording, making it widely used in professional audio production, recording, and sound design.

WAV files typically store audio using uncompressed pulse-code modulation (PCM), which means the sound is saved exactly as it was recorded. Because of this, WAV files provide excellent audio quality but usually take up more storage space compared to compressed formats.

WAV files are commonly used in music production, film audio, broadcasting, and sound effects libraries. The format is popular because it supports high sample rates and bit depths, making it suitable for professional recording and editing.

The WAV format was developed by Microsoft and IBM and is widely supported across many software platforms. Producers and sound engineers often work with WAV files inside digital audio workstations such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools for recording, editing, and exporting high-quality audio.