What is XM?

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

What is TTA?

True Audio (TTA) is a free, real-time lossless audio codec that provides efficient compression without compromising audio quality.

When Should You Use XM vs TTA?

XM vs TTA: Key Differences

• •XM and TTA diverge on compression: lossless compression for the source, lossless compression for the target.
• •Since both XM and TTA use lossless compression, the quality characteristics are comparable — differences in file size come down to how efficiently each format implements compression.
• •Transparency: N/A
• •XM files are typically Moderate, depends on sample content while TTA files range 40-50% smaller than WAV
• •XM is optimized for tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio while TTA is designed for lossless audio compression, archival — choose based on your specific workflow needs

Advantages of XM

• ✓At its core, XM relies on lossless encoding — a design choice that makes it perfect for Tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio.
• ✓You won't run into compatibility issues with XM — it's a universal standard across platforms.
• ✓File size management with XM: larger files guaranteed to match the original exactly.
• ✓Every major application in the Tracker music, demoscene, retro game audio space supports XM natively.

Advantages of TTA

• ✓TTA uses lossless compression tailored for Lossless audio compression, archival.
• ✓TTA is supported natively on virtually every device, browser, and operating system.
• ✓TTA files are bit-for-bit perfect, preserving every pixel and sample for professional work.
• ✓TTA integrates seamlessly with all major creative tools and workflows.

Common Use Cases for XM to TTA Conversion

• Professional broadcasting
• Video game audio assets
• Film soundtracks
• Radio commercials
• Guided meditation recordings
• Audiovisual installation

Industry Applications

Best Practices for XM to TTA Conversion

• →Converting XM to TTA: TTA preserves full audio fidelity — ideal for archiving master recordings
• →Normalize audio levels before conversion for consistent playback volume
• →TTA excels in professional audio workflows
• →Always keep a backup of your original files before converting
• →Choose the appropriate quality settings for your specific use case

Related Article

Troubleshooting XM to TTA Conversion

• !Clicks or pops in the converted TTA → sample rate conversion can introduce artifacts; use a clean multiple of the source rate
• !TTA file has silence at the beginning or end → trim the source XM file before converting to avoid unnecessary padding
• !Stereo image collapsed after converting XM to TTA → verify that the converter preserves channel mapping for multichannel audio
• !The converted TTA clips or distorts at peaks → reduce the gain or apply a limiter before conversion to prevent hard clipping

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