Audacity is globally recognized for its prowess in audio recording and editing. Its popularity is owed to its free and...
The AIFF (Audio Interchange File Format) filetype is an audio file format standard used for storing sound data. Developed by Apple Computer in 1988, the AIFF format is similar to the WAV filetype, which Microsoft and IBM introduced for Windows. AIFF is uncompressed, meaning that the audio is saved in its original quality, without any loss. This crisp, high-quality audio makes it ideal for professional audio editing and production.
Understanding AIFF Filetype
AIFF files store audio data in a form that allows for high sample rates and bit depths, which translates to accurately reproduced sound. The format uses a chunk-based storage system, with each chunk containing a specific type of data such as the sound information (SSND chunk) or comments about the audio (COMT chunk).
Software Compatibility
Due to its high fidelity, AIFF files are widely supported by a range of audio editing software including Logic Pro, Adobe Audition, and Cubase. It's also commonly supported by media players like VLC and iTunes, allowing users to enjoy top-notch sound quality during playback.
Alternatives to AIFF
While AIFF maintains its position as a preferred format for professional audio editing, other formats such as AAC, FLAC, and MP3, provide compressed alternatives. These formats reduce file size at the cost of audio quality, making them suitable for everyday use where storage space is a concern. In the digital music distribution field, AAC files have largely taken over due to their balance of quality and file size, making them a standard for platforms like Apple Music and YouTube.
