Using WAV Files for Final Cut Pro

By Sandy on October 21, 2009 1:01 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

I was a little confused today about the difference between WAV files and other audio files such as CD, MP3, and AIFF. In case there are some "freshman" out there, it is important to understand the various issues that may come up when dealing with these different formats. First of all a WAV file is basically an audio file for Windows used for storing audio on a PC, similar to the AIFF format used on a Mac. It is the main format used on Windows systems for raw and typically uncompressed audio. Both WAVs and AIFFs are compatible with Windows and Mac. A WAV file can hold compressed audio, but the most common WAV format contains uncompressed audio. Audio experts use the WAV format for maximum audio quality, and WAV files are universally compatible with most audio editing applications.

Even though .WAV files are compatible with Final Cut Pro, it is best to convert them to an .AIFF format with a sample rate of 48k. This will save system resources when Final Cut Pro plays the audio files. Otherwise, you may encounter dropped frames or an annoying beeping sound while Final Cut Pro plays your sequence.

Here's a quick tutorial on how to convert audio files to 48k .AIFF files:

Audio files have different sample rates. A standard definition DVD has an audio sample rate of 48 kHz. If you have an audio file you're importing with a different sample rate of 48 kHz, you will have to convert the file before it is output to DVD, and it is best to do that conversion before you import the file. The easiest way to do this is through iTunes: under preferences in iTunes, select the General Tab, and click on Importing. Now you can change the Import using AIFF Encoder or WAV Encoder, whichever you prefer.

Now click on the Custom setting from the pop-up menu, and change the settings to Sample Rate at 48.000 kHz, and the Sample Size to 16 bit; leave the Channels setting at Auto.