Change WAV bit depth
Upload a WAV file and convert it to a different bit depth.
New bit depth
Upload a WAV file and convert it to a different bit depth.
Bit depth sets the resolution of each sample and with it the noise floor: 16-bit gives roughly 96 dB of dynamic range, 24-bit about 144 dB. Recording and mixing benefit from 24-bit headroom; distribution rarely needs more than 16-bit, which is why CDs and most delivery specs sit there.
Going 24 to 16: standard for delivering masters, burning CDs, and shrinking session exports by a third. Going 16 to 24: padding for a workflow that requires 24-bit input; it adds headroom for further processing but cannot add detail the 16-bit file never had.
In normal playback, no: 16-bit’s noise floor sits below audibility at sane listening levels. The difference matters while recording and processing, where headroom prevents cumulative noise.
A third smaller than 24-bit at the same sample rate and channel count.
No, conversion is local to your browser.