AIFF Format Guide

Available Conversions

About AIFF Format

AIFF (Audio Interchange File Format) is an uncompressed audio file format developed by Apple in 1988. Based on Electronic Arts' Interchange File Format (IFF), AIFF stores audio data without compression, preserving original sound quality in its entirety. The format has been the standard for professional audio work on Mac computers and is widely used in music production, audio mastering, and sound design. AIFF files contain pulse-code modulation (PCM) digital audio in an uncompressed format, making them ideal for situations where audio quality is paramount and file size is not a primary concern.

History of AIFF

AIFF was introduced by Apple Computer in 1988 as a standard audio format for the Macintosh platform. The format was based on Electronic Arts' IFF (Interchange File Format), which was originally developed for the Commodore Amiga computer. Apple adapted IFF to create AIFF, specifically tailored for audio applications and Mac OS. The format quickly became the professional standard for audio on Mac systems, similar to how WAV became the standard on Windows. In 1991, Apple introduced AIFF-C (also known as AIFC), a compressed variant that supported various compression codecs while maintaining the AIFF file structure. However, the original uncompressed AIFF remained the preferred format for professional audio work due to its lossless nature. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, AIFF was the de facto standard in Mac-based recording studios, digital audio workstations (DAWs), and music production environments. While compressed formats like AAC have become more common for consumer audio, AIFF continues to be used extensively in professional audio production, mastering, and archival applications where quality cannot be compromised.

Key Features and Uses

AIFF stores audio in uncompressed PCM (Pulse-Code Modulation) format, typically at 16-bit or 24-bit depth with sample rates ranging from 44.1 kHz (CD quality) to 192 kHz or higher for professional applications. The format supports both mono and stereo audio, as well as multi-channel configurations for surround sound applications. AIFF files can store extensive metadata including artist information, track titles, album details, comments, and copyright information. The format supports loop points and markers, making it useful for sampled instruments and sound libraries. AIFF-C variant supports compression algorithms like IMA ADPCM and μ-law, though these are rarely used in practice. The format's chunk-based structure allows for extensibility, enabling storage of additional data types without breaking compatibility with older software. AIFF files maintain exact audio fidelity with no generation loss, making them ideal for audio editing where files may be saved multiple times.

Common Applications

AIFF is primarily used in professional audio production environments, particularly on Mac platforms. Recording studios use AIFF for tracking and mastering because of its lossless quality and industry acceptance. Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro, GarageBand, Pro Tools, and Ableton Live support AIFF natively, often using it as the default project file format. Sound designers use AIFF for creating and storing audio assets for film, television, and video games. Music producers prefer AIFF for archiving master recordings and for audio that will undergo further processing or editing. Sample libraries and virtual instruments frequently distribute sounds in AIFF format with embedded loop points and metadata. Audio engineers use AIFF for mastering projects before conversion to distribution formats. The format is common in academic and research institutions for storing high-quality audio recordings. While AIFF has been somewhat superseded by other formats like FLAC for consumer use, it remains a cornerstone of professional audio work, particularly in Apple-centric production environments.

Advantages and Disadvantages