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What is AU?

Sun AU is the native audio format for Sun Microsystems workstations, using simple mu-law encoding or uncompressed PCM.

What is WV?

WavPack is a hybrid audio compression format that supports both lossless and lossy compression in the same file.

When Should You Use AU vs WV?

Use AU When...

Go with AU when legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound is on your mind. Its lossless pipeline means what you put in is exactly what comes out.

Use WV When...

For lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding, nothing beats WV. It sets the standard for quality, trusted by professionals who cannot afford compromises.

AU vs WV: Key Differences

  • •AU uses lossless compression while WV uses lossless compression — both take the same approach to file size management.
  • •Both formats share lossless compression, so quality behavior is similar across the two — file size differences come from algorithm efficiency rather than compression philosophy.
  • •How transparency is handled: WV supports transparency, so alpha information is preserved during conversion.
  • •AU files are typically Small to medium, similar to WAV while WV files range 5MB/min for lossless, 2MB/min for lossy
  • •Use case fit: AU targets legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound and WV targets lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding — your choice depends on which workflow stage you are serving.

Advantages of AU

  • ✓AU applies lossless compression specifically calibrated for Legacy Unix audio, Sun workstation sound.
  • ✓AU enjoys broad native support across operating systems, browsers, and creative tools alike.
  • ✓AU guarantees every bit of the original data survives — no approximations, no shortcuts.
  • ✓You will find AU support built into virtually every tool that handles Legacy Unix audio, Sun workstation sound — no plugins or converters needed.

Advantages of WV

  • ✓The lossless nature of WV means file sizes stay reasonable while handling Lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding efficiently.
  • ✓From mobile devices to enterprise servers, WV is recognized and supported everywhere.
  • ✓The trade-off for WV's perfection is larger files — but for archival work, it is worth every megabyte.
  • ✓WV is a first-class citizen in all major software ecosystems, from creative suites to development environments.

Common Use Cases for AU to WV Conversion

  • Video game audio assets
  • Film soundtracks
  • Radio commercials
  • Guided meditation recordings
  • Audiovisual installation
  • Music education

Industry Applications

Game AudioFilm Post-productionAudiobook PublishingMusic StreamingLive SoundForensic Audio

Best Practices for AU to WV Conversion

  • →For AU to WV: match the sample rate and bit depth to your delivery platform — 44.1 kHz / 16-bit is the standard for music
  • →Apply loudness normalization (LUFS) before conversion to ensure consistent volume across your audio library
  • →WV prioritizes quality — ensure your storage can accommodate the resulting file sizes
  • →Check that metadata tags (artist, album, track number) survive the conversion
  • →Convert a short segment first to verify quality at your chosen bitrate
  • →Keep a lossless master copy in case you need to re-encode for a different platform

Related Article

Video Compression Guide: Reduce File Size Without Losing Quality

Learn more about AU and WV formats in our detailed guide.

Troubleshooting AU to WV Conversion

  • !WV audio quality degraded vs AU → use a higher bitrate (at least 256 kbps for music)
  • !WV file won't play on your device → check format compatibility with your player or platform
  • !Metadata (artist, album, title) lost after AU to WV conversion → some formats like WV may not support ID3 tags
  • !Volume changed after converting AU to WV → normalize audio levels before conversion for consistent playback

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About AU and WV

AU

AU (AU audio) - Sun AU, legacy Unix audio format for Sun workstations. Best for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound.

WV

WV (WavPack audio) - WavPack, hybrid lossless/lossy audio compression. Ideal for lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding.

Format Comparison

CompressionLossless → Lossless
TransparencySupported
Use CaseConvert from legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound to lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding
File Size~5MB/min for lossless, 2MB/min for lossy after conversion

FAQs

Is converting AU to WV free?

Yes, GoConvertFile offers free conversion of AU to WV for files up to 100MB. No registration required.

How long does it take to convert AU to WV?

Most AU to WV conversions complete within seconds for standard-sized files. Larger files may take longer depending on the conversion complexity.

What is WV best used for?

WV is ideal for lossless audio backup, hybrid encoding. WavPack, hybrid lossless/lossy audio compression

What file size should I expect after converting AU to WV?

File size after AU to WV conversion depends on the content complexity and quality settings. Both formats use similar compression approaches so sizes are comparable.

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