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What is XM?

Extended Module (XM) is the native format of Fast Tracker II, supporting samples, patterns, effects, and volume envelopes.

What is AU?

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

When Should You Use XM vs AU?

Use XM When...

If tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio is your end goal, XM is the smart pick. Its exacting standards ensure your output matches your input at every stage.

Use AU When...

Choose AU for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound. It delivers archival-grade quality that professionals rely on for critical work.

XM vs AU: Key Differences

  • •The core technical difference: XM relies on lossless compression whereas AU uses lossless compression.
  • •Since both XM and AU use lossless compression, the quality characteristics are comparable — differences in file size come down to how efficiently each format implements compression.
  • •How transparency is handled: AU supports transparency, so alpha information is preserved during conversion.
  • •File sizes: XM files typically range Moderate, depends on sample content and AU files Small to medium, similar to WAV.
  • •Primary audience: XM is built for tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio scenarios, while AU focuses on legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound — pick the format that matches your output requirement.

Advantages of XM

  • ✓XM compresses data using lossless methods, keeping file sizes manageable for Tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio.
  • ✓Industry-wide support means XM files open anywhere — from legacy systems to the latest devices.
  • ✓Lossless quality makes XM the gold standard for archival and master copies.
  • ✓From professional software to open-source alternatives, XM works out of the box.

Advantages of AU

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

Common Use Cases for XM to AU Conversion

  • Audio books
  • Sound design
  • Language learning
  • Professional broadcasting
  • Video game audio assets
  • Film soundtracks

Industry Applications

Language LearningAccessibilityVoice-overAudio ArchivingGame AudioFilm Post-production

Best Practices for XM to AU Conversion

  • →For XM to AU: 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
  • →AU 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 XM and AU formats in our detailed guide.

Troubleshooting XM to AU Conversion

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

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About XM and AU

XM

XM (XM modules) - Extended Module, Fast Tracker II music module format. Best for tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio.

AU

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

Format Comparison

CompressionLossless → Lossless
TransparencySupported
Use CaseConvert from tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio to legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound
File Size~Small to medium, similar to WAV after conversion

FAQs

Is converting XM to AU free?

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

How long does it take to convert XM to AU?

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

What is AU best used for?

AU is ideal for legacy unix audio, sun workstation sound. Sun AU, legacy Unix audio format for Sun workstations

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

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

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