How to use the M4A to WAV
- Add your .m4a file.
- WAV is preselected.
- Press “Convert” and download.
Why convert to WAV?
WAV stores audio without compression, which makes editing, cutting and applying effects straightforward in any audio program. Some transcription and speech-recognition services also prefer WAV. Expect WAV files to be about 10 times larger than M4A.
M4A to WAV for Audacity, Mac and iPhone
Audacity on Windows needs the optional FFmpeg library before it can open M4A files. Converting the M4A to WAV first lets you import it straight away without installing anything. On a Mac or iPhone, open this page in Safari, pick the voice memo or song and the WAV is saved to your Downloads folder.
How the converter works
Conversion uses FFmpeg, the widely used open-source media engine, compiled to WebAssembly so it runs inside your browser. The first time you convert, your browser downloads the engine (about 30 MB) from a public CDN; after that it is cached. Your media file itself is not uploaded.
Because the work is done by your own device, long videos can take a while, especially on phones. Files up to 500 MB are supported; for best results on mobile keep files under 100 MB.
Frequently asked questions
Does WAV improve quality?
No. WAV preserves the decoded audio exactly but cannot restore detail lost in the M4A.
What sample rate is used?
The original sample rate is kept, with 16-bit PCM encoding.
Can I convert M4A to 24-bit WAV?
No. The output is standard 16-bit PCM, which is CD quality and is accepted by every editor. M4A sources rarely contain more detail than 16-bit can hold.
Is M4A or WAV better?
WAV is better for editing because it is uncompressed; M4A is better for storing and sharing because the files are about ten times smaller.