How to convert FLAC to WAV or WAV to FLAC
- Add a FLAC or WAV file. Drag the file onto the converter or choose it from your device. The direction is set automatically: FLAC becomes WAV, and WAV becomes FLAC.
- Choose the output setting. For WAV output, pick 16-bit, 24-bit or 32-bit float. For FLAC output, pick a compression level from 0 to 8.
- Click Convert. The audio is decoded and re-encoded inside your browser.
- Preview and download. Play the result, then save it to your device.
FLAC vs WAV
WAV stores raw, uncompressed audio. FLAC stores the same audio, packed without loss, at roughly half the size. Converting between them changes the file size and compatibility, not the sound. To pull audio out of a video instead, use the MP4 to MP3 converter.
| Feature | WAV | FLAC |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Lossless, uncompressed | Lossless, compressed |
| One minute at CD quality | About 10.1 MB | Typically 4–6 MB |
| Tags | Basic support | Full tags and cover art |
| Best for | Editing, DAWs, CD burning, hardware samplers | Archiving and listening |
When to convert which way
- FLAC to WAV when an editor, DAW, sampler, CD-burning app or older device does not open FLAC.
- WAV to FLAC to archive recordings or free up space without losing anything. You can always convert back to an identical WAV.
If you need a much smaller file and can accept some loss, the WAV compressor and the FLAC to MP3 converter go further.
When the conversion fails
- The file is rejected. Only .flac, .wav and .wave files are accepted.
- The file is larger than 100 MB. Long recordings can exceed the browser limit. Split the recording first.
- A file will not convert. It is probably damaged or was cut short while downloading. Play it first; if it stops early, export or download it again.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert FLAC to WAV?
Drop the FLAC file into the converter at the top of this page, choose a WAV bit depth, click Convert to WAV and download the file. To go the other way, drop a WAV file instead.
Does converting FLAC to WAV lose quality?
No. FLAC is lossless, so decoding it to WAV gives back the exact original audio, as long as the WAV bit depth is at least the FLAC's. 24-bit, the default, covers both CD-quality and hi-res files.
Which WAV bit depth should I pick?
Use 24-bit unless you know you need something else. Choose 16-bit for CD burning or software that only accepts CD-quality WAV, and 32-bit float for editing in a DAW.
Which FLAC compression level should I use?
Level 5, the default, is a good balance. Every level stores the same audio; higher levels make slightly smaller files and take a little longer to encode, while level 0 is fastest.
How much smaller is FLAC than WAV?
Usually 40 to 60 percent smaller, depending on the music. Quiet or simple recordings compress more than dense, loud ones.
Is my audio uploaded?
No. The conversion runs in your browser with WebAssembly. Your file stays on your device, and closing the tab clears it.