What Is FLAC?

The high-def MP3 format explained

When looking at streamers or music players, you will always see a list of support file types - one of them (hopefully) is FLAC. But what is it? FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) is a digital audio format that uses lossless compression to reduce the size of audio files without reducing their quality. Basically, it's a bit-perfect copy of CDs but with files half the size!

First emerging in 2001, FLAC has been embraced as a cost-effective way to distribute high-quality music, without the auditory problems of MP3s. FLAC files are almost like ZIP files, which will sound perfect once "unzipped". Previously, the only way to get lossless audio files was via uncompressed CD formats...and think of the space those took up. 

Though the goal is at least CD quality, FLAC files can be up to 24-bit/192kHz and offer a nice boost in performance. You might be wondering the difference between downloading FLAC files and using a streamer for Tidal, Spotify, etc. Though each format has its benefits, the beauty of FLAC files is that you own them forever - no monthly or yearly subscription fees. You can buy your FLAC files and own them forever, no internet connection is needed. 

For more info on FLAC files, several great sites have provided in-depth technical analysis and comparisons. For now, just know what you can have great music downloaded that won't eat up your entire hard drive.