F

FLAC 1.2.1a

Xiph.org – Freeware

FLAC: The Lossless Audio Codec that Sets the Standard

Elena Angelini

FLAC offers high-fidelity audio compression without loss of quality, making it an essential tool for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.
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FLAC is a free, open-source digital audio coding format developed by Xiph.Org, a non-profit organization that creates multimedia solutions.

The acronym FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec. It is a lossless compression format, which means that it does not alter the original audio data during the compression process. This results in compressed files that are identical in quality to the original uncompressed files, while also being smaller in size.

This compression method allows music lovers to enjoy high-quality, studio-grade music without having to deal with large file sizes. FLAC files are typically about 50-60% smaller than uncompressed audio files like WAV, but still offer the same level of quality.

FLAC is also widely supported by various software and hardware players, making it a popular choice for music enthusiasts who want to preserve and listen to their favorite songs in high quality.

  • FLAC is a free, open-source digital audio coding format
  • It is a lossless compression format
  • FLAC files offer the same level of quality as uncompressed audio
  • FLAC is widely supported by various software and hardware players

FLAC provides an excellent way for listeners to enjoy high-quality music without sacrificing storage space or audio quality. Thanks to its open-source nature, FLAC continues to be a popular choice for music fans around the world.

Overview

FLAC is a Freeware software in the category Audio & Multimedia developed by Xiph.org.

The latest version of FLAC is 1.2.1a, released on 01/30/2010. It was initially added to our database on 10/29/2007.

FLAC runs on the following operating systems: Windows.

FLAC has not been rated by our users yet.

Pros

  • Lossless audio format preserves original sound quality
  • Supports high-resolution audio
  • Open-source and free to use
  • Widely supported by various media players and devices
  • Metadata support for album art, artist, track name, and more

Cons

  • File sizes can be larger compared to lossy compression formats like MP3
  • Not as widely supported for streaming services compared to other formats
  • Not as well-known among casual listeners

FAQ

What is FLAC?

FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec. It is an audio coding format for lossless compression of digital audio.

Why should I use FLAC?

FLAC allows you to create exact copies of your audio recordings while still achieving high compression ratios. It preserves all the original audio quality, making it a popular choice for audiophiles and archiving purposes.

How does FLAC compression work?

FLAC uses a sophisticated compression algorithm specifically designed for audio. It removes unnecessary data from the audio stream while still allowing perfect reconstruction of the original signal.

Is FLAC lossless?

Yes, FLAC is a lossless compression format. This means that when you decode a FLAC file, you get an exact replica of the original audio without any quality loss.

Are FLAC files larger than MP3 or AAC files?

Yes, FLAC files are generally larger in size than their lossy counterparts like MP3 or AAC. This is because FLAC provides lossless compression, meaning it maintains the complete audio quality.

Can I convert other audio formats to FLAC?

Yes, you can convert audio files from various formats such as WAV, AIFF, or even MP3 to the FLAC format without any loss in quality. There are many software options available for this purpose.

What devices and software support FLAC playback?

FLAC playback is supported on a wide range of devices and software. Many media players, both hardware and software-based, offer native support for FLAC files. Additionally, FLAC is supported by most operating systems and can be played back on smartphones, tablets, computers, and dedicated audio players.

Is FLAC compatible with streaming services?

Yes, some streaming services support FLAC playback, but the availability may vary. It's important to check with the specific streaming platform for FLAC compatibility.

How do I create a FLAC file?

You can create a FLAC file from an existing audio source by using various encoding software or converters. These applications allow you to select the source file and specify the desired settings before encoding it into the FLAC format.

Is FLAC an open-source format?

Yes, FLAC is an open-source format developed and maintained by Xiph.org. The source code is freely available, and it complies with open standards and specifications.


Elena Angelini

Elena Angelini

I'm Elena, your go-to software reviewer at UpdateStar and tech enthusiast. Whether you're a user seeking the latest software titles or software news I've got you covered. When I'm not diving into the latest software, you can find me exploring nature trails, camping under the stars, or competing in online multiplayer games. My reviews are designed to be fun, engaging, and packed with all the details you need to make informed decisions.

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