How to save as 32-bit Float

[JeffersonJ]

I just received the mastered version of some songs and I'm using Audacity for "tracking" and to overlap a couple of the tracks.

The masters were sent to me in 32-bit float .wav and I'd like to keep this format before I send it off to the record pressing plant. However, Audacity only allows me to save in 16-bit PCM. It seems strange that Audacity would not be able to write a 32-bit float file. Does anyone have a tip in how to save in this format? Perhaps an audio codec that needs to be imported?

If there is no way to do this, does anyone know of a different audio editing program for Mac that can save in 32-bit float (preferably free or with a trial period)?

[billw58]

In the Export dialog, choose "Other uncompressed types" in the "Format" dropdown, then click the "Options" button. In the next dialog you'll be able to specify 32-bit float for both AIF and WAV (and possibly others, I didn't check them all).

-- Bill

[JeffersonJ]

I could have sworn I tried this. But, you're right and it worked. Thanks Bill!

[kozikowski]

<<<I'd like to keep this format before I send it off to the record pressing plant.>>>

Are you going to send them that format? Can they handle it OK? Did they say so in English words, or are you assuming it? Audacity was the first time I ever encountered 32-bit float. Everybody I know does mastering quality work in 24-fixed.

Koz

[JeffersonJ]

<<<I'd like to keep this format before I send it off to the record pressing plant.>>>

Are you going to send them that format? Can they handle it OK? Did they say so in English words, or are you assuming it? Audacity was the first time I ever encountered 32-bit float. Everybody I know does mastering quality work in 24-fixed.

I'm waiting for explicit instructions on their format requirements. However, I received the masters in 32-bit float from a well-regarded mastering engineer. My plan is keep the files in this format until I hear otherwise.

Do you know of any issues in converting 32-bit float to 24-bit fixed? (And by fixed I assume you mean PCM)

[kozikowski]

There are downsides to converting. People attracted to inspecting microscopic minutia love to point out the just-above-zero errors that can accumulate when you do. Best leave it alone until you find out for sure.

Koz

[kozikowski]

32-bit floating is without question a good format for production. It can do very handy things like overload without permanent sound damage. In the fixed formats, once you clip, you're dead.

Koz

[JeffersonJ]

FYI, I just got more clarification from the record pressing plant, and they can handle 32-bit float. I just uploaded them and should see my records in a month or two. Woo! Thanks for the help.

[kozikowski]

We have been known to send a four second sound file in the expected format. "Can you open this OK?"

We try to avoid as much as possible last-minute, panicky phone calls.

"Your sound file seems to be damaged........"

Koz