.flac file: What it is, how it works, and when to use it
| October 1, 2019
What is a .flac file?
A .flac file is a lossless audio format that compresses audio data while preserving every bit of the original sound quality. FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Compression) typically reduces file size by 40–60% compared to uncompressed formats like WAV, without any degradation in audio fidelity. It is widely used by audio professionals, archivists, and audiophiles who require high-quality playback alongside manageable file sizes.
File management is the practice of storing, organizing, locating, and distributing digital files.
How to open a FLAC file
The flac isn’t the most accessible audio file types available. Fortunately, there are some quality third party systems that allow both Windows and Mac users to open them. One such program is VLC Media Player. VLC opens flac files as well as many other common file types. You’ll likely end up using VLC instead of your current media player.
How to convert a FLAC file
There are a bunch of different ways to convert a flac file. The easiest way is to locate a browser-based conversion system. The valuable part about these is they don’t require a download and installation of a new program to use. If you need to convert a massive amount of flac files, then downloading a converter makes the most sense. FlacSquisher is one of our favorites. It converts flacs to all sorts of different audio file types.
Who should use FLAC?
Anyone with large quantities of sensitive audio formatted files should consider flac, especially if they plan on sharing or uploading them. A flac takes up only about sixty percent of the original file size on a hard drive. This makes it easier to share and upload to the cloud. It’s also nicer for recipients of the files.
What types of users should consider flac? Anyone with professional-grade recordings needs to use flac. For example, a recording artist wouldn’t want to place their audio into an mp3, which would create lossy compression. The flac would compress the file without sacrificing initial quality. Furthermore, lovers of sound – especially music – should consider flac for the same reason.
If you’ve been looking for a way to save drive space, quickly share audio files and maintain sound quality, flac is the right file type for you.