REWINDFLAC files on iPhone
FLAC is a free, open lossless format: the audio is compressed without losing information. A FLAC file is typically 50 to 70 percent of the size of the same song as WAV. REWIND plays FLAC files you import from the Files app, as a retro player rather than an audiophile one.
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What is FLAC?
FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Codec. Josh Coalson began the project around 2000, and the Xiph.Org Foundation maintains it. The format is open and royalty-free, which is why many stores and rippers use it. Background: FLAC on Wikipedia.
Lossless and file sizes
Compression is lossless, so decoding gives back the original data. Typical files are about 50 to 70 percent of the original WAV, depending on the music. Quiet, simple recordings shrink more.
| Format | Four-minute CD-quality song |
|---|---|
| WAV | About 42 MB |
| FLAC | About 20 to 30 MB |
| MP3 320 kbps | About 9.6 MB |
How do I get FLAC onto an iPhone?
Bandcamp and other DRM-free stores sell FLAC downloads; see where to buy DRM-free music.
- Put the FLAC files in iCloud Drive, AirDrop them or transfer them from a computer.
- Open REWIND and import from the Files app.
- Play the tracks on any machine.
How does REWIND play FLAC?
REWIND plays FLAC files. It reads tags and cover art, and every machine, the equalizer and analog sound work on them. REWIND is not a bit-perfect or hi-res player. If you need exclusive-mode output for a DAC, a dedicated audiophile app is the better tool. If you want a collection of lossless files on a cassette player, REWIND is built for that.
FLAC tags and cover art
FLAC stores metadata in its own comment blocks, so titles, artists and embedded cover art travel inside the file. Clean tags give you a clean library in REWIND. If a FLAC rip has no embedded cover, add one with a tag editor before importing.
FLAC versus other lossless types
FLAC, ALAC, WAV and AIFF can all hold CD-quality sound. FLAC and ALAC compress it; WAV and AIFF do not. For storage on an iPhone, the compressed pair is usually the better pick.
Frequently asked questions
Does REWIND play FLAC?
Yes. Import FLAC files from the Files app.
Is REWIND a hi-res or bit-perfect FLAC player?
No. REWIND plays FLAC files with its effects and machines; it does not claim bit-perfect or hi-res output.
Is FLAC better than MP3?
FLAC is lossless and keeps all the detail from the source. MP3 is lossy and much smaller.
How big is a FLAC file?
Typically 50 to 70 percent of the same audio as WAV, so about 20 to 30 MB for a four-minute CD-quality song.
Keep exploring
ALAC on iPhoneLossless audio in an M4A wrapper. Sizes, loading it on iPhone, and how REWIND plays it.
WAV on iPhoneUncompressed audio. File sizes, loading WAV on iPhone, and how REWIND plays it.
REWIND vs FlacboxFlacbox is a format-hungry hi-res player with a DSP chain. REWIND is a retro machine player for common formats.
Offline Music Library for iPhoneImport folders or tracks from Files. Tags, cover art, search, favorites, shuffle and repeat. Offline.