How to convert MP3 to WAV
- Choose an MP3, M4A, OGG or FLAC file up to 10 minutes long.
- Pick a bit depth: 16-bit for everyday use, 24-bit for studio work.
- Leave the sample rate on Same as file, or choose 44.1, 48 or 96 kHz.
- Press Convert to WAV, listen, then download your WAV.
This converter only outputs WAV. To go the other way, from WAV to MP3, you need an MP3 encoder, which browsers don’t include.
MP3 vs WAV: what changes
An MP3 is compressed. When it was made, the encoder removed sounds you’re unlikely to notice so the file would be about a tenth of the size. To play it, every app has to decode it back into plain audio samples first. A WAV simply stores those plain samples, uncompressed, which is why it’s the standard format in music production.
Converting gives you that decoded audio as a WAV. It sounds the same as the MP3, no better and no worse, but it’s easier to work with: DAWs load it instantly, it cuts and loops cleanly with no gap at the start, and you can edit and save it again and again without it getting worse each time like an MP3 would.
Bit depth and sample rate
| Setting | Good for | Size per stereo minute |
|---|---|---|
| 16-bit, 44.1 kHz | CD quality, most samples and beats | About 10 MB |
| 24-bit, 44.1 kHz | Mixing and heavy processing in a DAW | About 15 MB |
| 16-bit, 48 kHz | Video, film and 48 kHz sessions | About 11 MB |
| 24-bit, 48 kHz | Video and studio sessions | About 16.5 MB |
Your browser normally opens audio at your device’s own rate, often 48 kHz. This tool reads the original sample rate from the file itself and decodes straight to it, so a 44.1 kHz MP3 comes out as a 44.1 kHz WAV, not a resampled one.
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FAQ
How do I convert MP3 to WAV?
Choose your MP3, pick 16-bit or 24-bit, leave the sample rate on Same as file and press Convert to WAV. Listen to the result, then download it. It takes a few seconds and happens in your browser.
Does converting MP3 to WAV improve the quality?
No. MP3 throws some detail away when it’s made, and converting back can’t bring it back. What you get is that same sound in a format every DAW, sampler and CDJ can load and edit without decoding it again, and that won’t lose anything more when you re-export it.
Should I pick 16-bit or 24-bit?
16-bit is CD quality and plenty for an MP3 source. Choose 24-bit if you’re going to process the file a lot in your DAW, or if a studio or distributor asks for it. The 24-bit file is 50% bigger.
Which sample rate should I use?
Keep Same as file unless you need something else. Pick 48 kHz for video projects, or to match a DAW session that runs at 48 kHz. Going higher than the original adds no detail, it only makes the file bigger.
What other files can I convert to WAV?
Anything your browser can play: M4A, AAC, OGG, Opus, FLAC and AIFF, as well as MP3. Chrome, Edge and Firefox open all of them; older versions of Safari can’t open OGG. Files can be up to 10 minutes long.
Can I convert WAV to MP3 here?
Not yet. This tool only makes WAV files. Making an MP3 needs an MP3 encoder, and browsers don’t include one.
Is my file uploaded?
No. The file is decoded and turned into a WAV inside your browser, so it never leaves your device. It’s free and there’s no sign-up.