WAV or MP3? How to Choose the Right Audio File Format for Your Voiceover

If you're commissioning a voiceover for the first time, you'll probably be asked one question that catches many people by surprise:

"Would you like the files delivered as WAV or MP3?"

If you're not entirely sure what you need or even what this even means, you're certainly not alone.

Choosing the right file format is actually very straightforward. It simply depends on where your audio will be used.

What's the Difference?

Both WAV and MP3 contain exactly the same recording. The difference is how they're stored.

A WAV file is uncompressed, meaning it retains all the original audio information and provides the highest possible sound quality.

An MP3 file is compressed, making it much smaller and easier to send, download and share, but the quality is reduced.

For many projects, both formats sound excellent. The best choice depends on what you're doing with the recording.

When Should I Choose WAV?

WAV files are usually the preferred option if your audio will be edited alongside other media.

They're commonly used for:

• Corporate videos

• Explainer videos

• TV and radio advertising

• eLearning courses

• Podcasts

• Audiobook production

• Professional video editing

  
  

Because the audio is uncompressed, editors have greater flexibility during post-production without compromising sound quality.

When Is MP3 the Better Choice?

MP3 files are ideal when smaller file sizes are more important than maximum audio quality.

They're commonly used for:

• Emailing recordings

• Website audio

• Social media content

• Internal presentations

• Quick previews

• Personal listening

  
  

For many everyday applications, an MP3 provides excellent quality while being much easier to store and share.

What About Audiobooks?

If you're producing an audiobook, the required format depends on which stage you're at.

During production, high-quality WAV files are often used for recording and editing.

The final files prepared for distribution must meet the technical requirements of the platform you're publishing through. If you're working with a professional production team, they'll make sure everything is supplied in the correct format.

If you're working with me as your narrator and need full audiobook production, I can also introduce you to trusted production through Independent Audiobook Productions, ensuring your audiobook is fully prepared for distribution.

Telephone Systems and IVR

Most modern telephone systems accept WAV or MP3 files, but every system is slightly different.

If you're unsure, simply ask your telephone provider or IT team which format they recommend.

If you don't know, don't worry—we can always discuss it before recording begins.

What About Sample Rates and Bit Depth?

You may occasionally see terms such as:

• 44.1kHz

• 48kHz

• 16-bit

• 24-bit

• Mono

• Stereo

  
  

These are technical settings that affect how audio is recorded and delivered.

Unless your production team has specified a particular format, you don't usually need to worry about these details. Your voice actor can supply files that suit your project and advise if anything specific is required. Personally I always record in nothing less than 44.1kHz, but usually 48kHz as we can always reduce this after the recording if need be. I also record in 32-bit for the same reason. And I record in Mono, unless a client states otherwise, so the same sound and levels goes to each speaker or headphones equally.

So... Which One Should You Choose?

As a general guide:

If you're creating...	Recommended format
Corporate video	WAV
Explainer video	WAV
eLearning course	WAV
Audiobook production	WAV
Podcast editing	WAV
Website audio	MP3 or WAV
Social media	MP3
Telephone greetings	Whatever your phone system requires (often WAV or MP3)

If you're unsure, simply ask.

Choosing the right format is part of the service, and I'm always happy to advise before recording begins.

Final Thoughts

The good news is that you don't need to become an audio expert before commissioning a voiceover.

Most clients simply tell me where the recording will be used, and together we'll choose the format that works best for your project.

Whether you need a broadcast-quality WAV file for professional editing or a convenient MP3 ready to upload to your website, the important thing is that you receive audio that's easy to use and sounds great.

Ready to talk about your project? Please contact me and I'll be happy to help.

🎙️ Top Tip from Nicky

If you're working with a video editor, web developer or Learning Management System, ask them which file format they prefer before recording begins.

It only takes a moment to check, and it helps ensure your audio slots straight into the project without any last-minute conversions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I have both WAV and MP3?

Yes. In most cases, it's easy to provide both formats if you need them.

Will an MP3 sound worse?

For everyday listening, most people won't notice a difference. WAV is preferred when the audio will be edited professionally because it preserves the highest quality.

Do I need mono or stereo?

Voiceover is almost always recorded and delivered in mono unless there's a specific reason for stereo. A single voice doesn't benefit from stereo recording, and mono files are usually the industry standard for narration.

What if I don't know what I need?

That's absolutely fine. Just tell me where the recording will be used, and I'll recommend the most suitable format.