An audio export is not just a file extension. The container, codec, bit depth, sample rate and compression method all affect compatibility, storage and sometimes sound. Knowing the difference helps you send clean stems to a collaborator while still creating a small file for casual listening.
Understand lossless and lossy formats
WAV commonly stores uncompressed PCM audio. FLAC stores losslessly compressed audio, preserving the decoded sample values while reducing file size. MP3 is a lossy format: it discards some information to make files smaller. The audible difference depends on bitrate, source material, listener and playback conditions.
For editing and archiving, keep a lossless version. Repeatedly encoding an MP3 from an MP3 can add generation loss. If someone asks for WAV stems, export directly from the DAW session rather than converting an already degraded lossy copy.
Choose sample rate and bit depth deliberately
For many music workflows, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz is a practical sample rate. Video production commonly uses 48 kHz; follow the specifications of the receiving service or collaborator. Recording and mix sessions commonly benefit from 24-bit PCM files because they provide generous numerical headroom and dynamic range.
Bit depth and sample rate do different jobs. Higher bit depth expands the available resolution of PCM amplitude values; a higher sample rate permits representation of higher frequencies within the system's band limit. Neither automatically improves a flawed recording.
Know when dithering matters
Dither is a small noise signal sometimes added when reducing the bit depth of fixed-point PCM audio, for example from a high-precision mix to a 16-bit delivery master. Apply it once at the final reduction stage if required by your mastering workflow. Do not indiscriminately add dithering to every intermediate render.
For streaming, keep a clean high-quality source and follow the distributor's current technical requirements. Loudness targets differ by platform and are not an excuse to clip peaks or crush the mix.
Export decision guide
- Send WAV or FLAC when a collaborator needs a lossless source.
- Choose MP3 for easy previews when file size matters and lossy delivery is acceptable.
- Match the project's sample rate unless a destination specifies otherwise.
- Check start time, tails, channel count and end-to-end sync before sending stems.
- Re-import an exported file and listen for clipping, missing effects and silence.
A trustworthy workflow starts by keeping the lossless master and making delivery versions from it.
Frequently asked questions
Is FLAC lower quality than WAV?
No. When both contain equivalent PCM data, FLAC is lossless and reconstructs the original decoded samples.
Does a higher sample rate always sound better?
Not automatically. Recording quality, processing and delivery requirements matter more than choosing the largest number.