WavPack is an open lossless audio codec notable for its flexible hybrid mode. In pure lossless mode it works like FLAC or ALAC, shrinking a WAV while restoring it bit-for-bit. In hybrid mode it splits the file into a relatively small lossy 'core' that is playable on its own, plus a 'correction' file that, when present, upgrades the core back to fully lossless. That lets you keep a compact everyday version and an exact archive from the same encode. WavPack also handles high bit depths, many channels, and even DSD, which keeps it useful in archival and audiophile niches, though FLAC's broader support makes it the more common lossless choice.
The book · Volume 4 of 7
Audio for Video: A Complete Guide to Sound in Video Products: From PCM and Codecs to Loudness, Accessibility, and Real-Time Voice Processing
WavPack's hybrid mode lets you ship a small playable file and keep a correction file that restores the master bit-for-bit. Volume 4 covers WavPack in detail with FLAC and ALAC, plus PCM fundamentals, bit depth, channel layouts and when lossless masters make sense next to AAC or Opus delivery. Written by Nikolay Sapunov, CEO at Fora Soft.
Weighing WavPack hybrid mode for your audio archive or delivery chain?
We will compare WavPack, FLAC and ALAC on your files and storage costs and give you an archive and delivery format plan. 250+ video products shipped since 2005.
