FLAC is an audio file format compressed using a specific encoding format. Specifically, the Free Lossless Audio Codec format – thus the acronym FLAC. The open-source lossless compression format can be used to reduce the size of audio files without compromising the quality. The opposite would be lossy compression – for audio files, lossless is generally the better option.
FLAC files are similar to MP3 files but can be up to 60% smaller than a standard file. As mentioned, the compression algorithm is open source and free, meaning anyone can use it for their purposes.
How can you open FLAC files?
FLAC files are widely supported and generally compatible with most programs capable of running and playing MP3 files. Audio players and the like can all play this format, while the software created by the Xiph.Org Foundation can be used to create these files.
What programs work with FLAC files?
Music players like VLC, iTunes and more can run these files. Other programs such as Adobe Audition CC, Roxio Creator NXT Pro, Foobar2000, Goldwave, Roxio Toast 18 and more can also use the FLAC format. Additionally, software like File Viewer Plus can be used to open files of this type as well.
Mitch Bartlett says
FLAC files aren’t really that widely available. Sometimes you will come across them when a music artist releases them via their website or on torrent networks. You can rip your own audio to the FLAC format using software like Audacity.
Jim Shoes says
You might want to elaborate a bit, specifically with respect to flac file availability. How does one get them?