- MP3, AAC, WAV, FLAC: all the audio file formats explained
WAV and AIFF are arguably the most popular uncompressed audio file formats, both based on PCM (Pulse Code Modulation), which is widely recognised as the most straightforward audio storage mechanism in the digital domain Both WAV and AIFF files use similar technology, but store data in slightly different ways
- What is DSD audio? A niche digital music format for audiophiles . . .
With PCM, the original analogue music waveform is described in two parts The first is its amplitude (size) In CD this is represented by 16-bits of digital data, which gives us the ability to define 65,536 different signal levels The original music waveform has to be measured at regular intervals in order for it to be represented properly
- Best budget soundbars 2025: cheap bars, tested by our experts
In PCM, you will hear the audio only in stereo, but sending bitstream means your soundbar will be able to receive those lovely Dolby formats, including Atmos What are the best equaliser setting for a soundbar?
- What is a DAC? And why do you need one anyway?
It’s a much more niche format, differing from PCM by offering a bit depth of just one, but much higher sampling rates – commonly DSD64 at 2 8MHz and DSD128 at 5 6MHz The arguments as to which encoding system is better continue to rumble on
- Best active speakers 2025: our experts pick the top pairs with . . .
Optical and HDMI ARC can both carry stereo PCM (uncompressed) and Dolby DTS 5 1 (compressed), though HDMI e ARC has greater bandwidth and can therefore transmit the next-gen Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats This distinction shouldn't make much difference to how you listen to TV via your stereo active speakers, mind you
- PMC Prodigy 1 review - What Hi-Fi?
The Prodigy 1 open PMC speakers up to a wider audience, and that audience should pounce on them immediately
- High-resolution audio: everything you need to know | What Hi-Fi?
Hi-res audio is the pinnacle for digital music fans, but what is it, how can you get it, and what kit do you need to listen to it?
- Coaxial vs optical vs HDMI: which is the best audio connection to use?
An optical connection also can’t support more than two channels of uncompressed PCM audio Then there's the threat of damage if an optical cable is bent too tightly What about HDMI? Launched in 2002, HDMI is a one-size-fits-all connection for video and audio
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